Engineering your Air Pollution Control System

Navigating the complex landscape of air pollution control hardware selection can be overwhelming, given the multitude of equipment vendors and technologies available. Determining the most suitable equipment to meet permit requirements is crucial, along with engaging with various suppliers to ensure all needs are met. The intricate design, potential need for multiple equipment sets, and integration requirements' necessitate a thorough evaluation of project scope.

In many cases, air pollution control needs require a combination of diverse designs to achieve effective solutions. For instance, a combination of devices like thermal oxidizers, quenchers, venturi scrubbers, precipitators, and acid gas scrubbers may be needed to address different aspects of the air pollution control need. The flexibility to combine design creativity offers endless possibilities to tailor solutions for specific applications. Embracing innovation is key in finding optimal configurations.

Engaging in an Engineering study, before a final design specification is developed, is a proactive strategy that enables the end user to develop superior solutions, mitigate risks, and optimize outcomes specific to their APC system needs. Understanding these key components is essential for making informed decision and optimizing the effectiveness of the air pollution control system.

Some of the critical parameters that play a major role in the final system design and performance expectations are:

1. Contaminant characteristics (i.e., physical and chemical properties, concentration, particulate shape and size distribution, chemical reactivity, corrosivity, abrasiveness, toxicity, etc.)
2. Gas stream characteristics (i.e., volume, flow rate, temperature, pressure, humidity, composition, viscosity, density, reactivity, combustibility, corrosivity, toxicity, etc.)
3. Design and performance characteristics of the particular control system, i.e., size and weight, fractional efficiency curves (in the case of particulates), mass transfer and/or contaminant destruction capability (in the case of gases or vapors), pressure drop, reliability and dependability, turndown capability, power requirements, utility requirements, temperature limitations, maintenance requirements, flexibility with regard to complying with more stringent air pollution regulations, etc.

Many times, these critical parameters are unknown or assumed to be accurate. Operating cases are another area that can be very subjective and clearly can impact on the overall design of the APC system.

An Engineering study allows the end user and the equipment provider the ability to validate the parameters, confirm the accuracy of the various operating cases and ultimately design a system that meets all the performance criteria at an acceptable price.

Engineering studies incorporate detailed planning, thorough review of the design requirements, and optimal equipment design based on a proactive overview of the end user's performance needs. This approach yields a variety of advantages, such as:

Some of the key benefits resulting from an APC Equipment Engineering study are:

There are some typical questions that are raised by clients who are interest in pursuing an engineering study.

1. Am I obligated to use a single supplier based on the commitment for the engineering study?
2. Is there additional complexity in the purchasing and accounting processes?
3. Will I still be able to get competitive bids?
4. Will the cost of the study be reimbursed with an equipment order?

To get the most value out of the study, it is critical that the scope and outcomes of the study are properly communicated between the end user and engineering service provider. It is an opportunity for the end user to gain valuable insight into the process an concepts for the future project, while at the same time enables the client to evaluate a potential equipment supplier. The cost of the studies will often be reimbursable if the end user decides to purchase equipment from the same engineering company.

In summary, an Engineering study is an up-front investment that will guarantee the full optimization and overall performance of the final equipment set. The investment is nominal in comparison to the need for costly design changes during the fabrication and installation process resulting in process delays, and potential issues tied to the end product performance.