what is industrial water

Industrial water refers to water used in industrial or commercial activities such as fabricating, processing, washing, diluting, cooling, or transporting a product. It is used by various industries such as smelting facilities, petroleum refineries, chemical, food, and paper product industries. Industrial water is also used for cooling equipment used in creating products. The amount of water used in industrial processes is significant, with large amounts of water used mostly to produce food, paper, and chemicals. Industrial water is not suitable for release to natural receiving water without prior treatment with oil separation equipment. Industrial water and wastewater is a by-product of industrial or commercial activities, and the resulting wastewater must be carefully managed. Industries that produce metals, wood and paper products, chemicals, gasoline and oils, and food are major users of water.