Subject Code/Name : CME 366/EQUIPMENT FOR POLLUTION CONTROL

Regulation : R-2021
Year/Sec : THIRD YEAR
Semester : SIXTH SEMESTER

UNIT – III
EQUIPMENT FOR AIR POLLUTION CONTROL

Operational principles and Design criteria of Cyclone separators, gravity settlers, Wet Scrubbers, Air
strippers, Bag Filters, Electrostatic precipitators, Biofilters - Filed visit to an industry with air pollution
control systems

1. Operational principles and Design criteria of Cyclone separators

 A cyclone separator, also known as a cyclone dust collector or cyclone dust separator, is a device
used for separating particles from a gas or liquid stream.
 It operates on the principle of centrifugal force, exploiting the inertia of particles to separate them
from the surrounding fluid.

 Inlet Design:
 The contaminated gas or liquid enters the cyclone separator through an inlet, often
tangentially.
 This tangential entry causes the gas or liquid to spin around the axis of the cyclone.
 Centrifugal Force:
 As the gas or liquid spins inside the cyclone, centrifugal force comes into play.
  This force causes the heavier particles (dust, debris, or solid particles) to move toward the
outer wall of the cyclone.
 Particle Separation:
 Due to the centrifugal force, the heavier particles are forced against the inner surface of the
cyclone, creating a downward spiral motion along the walls.
 Gravity and Collection:
 The separated particles, being heavier, move downward under the influence of gravity and
collect at the bottom of the cyclone, forming a conical-shaped accumulation known as the
"cone."
 Cleaned Gas or Liquid Outlet:
 The cleaned gas or liquid, which is now free from a significant portion of the separated
particles, exits the cyclone through an outlet located at the top.
 Collection and Disposal:
 The collected particles at the bottom of the cyclone can be periodically removed or disposed
of, depending on the application.
Key design criteria for cyclone separators:
 Particle Size and Density:
 Cyclones are generally effective for larger and denser particles, so the design should be made
to the specific characteristics of the matter.
 Gas Flow Rate:
 This parameter influences the size and dimensions of the cyclone to achieve the desired
separation efficiency.
 Inlet Design:
 Design the inlet configuration to promote a tangential entry of the gas stream.
 The design should minimize turbulence and ensure a smooth flow.
 Cyclone Dimensions:
 Specify the dimensions of the cyclone, including the diameter of the cyclone body, the length
of the cylindrical section, and the angle of the cone.
 Cyclone Shape:
 Consider the cyclone shape, which can vary from a simple cylindrical-conical design to more
complex shapes.
 Cyclone Inlet Velocity:
 The design should aim for an inlet velocity that balances the need for effective particle
separation with energy efficiency. Too high or too low velocities can impact performance.
 Cone Angle:
 Common cone angles range from 10 to 30 degrees.
  Material Selection:
 Choose materials for construction that are compatible with the process conditions, considering
factors such as temperature, corrosiveness, and abrasiveness.
Advantages
 Simple construction
 No moving parts
 Less maintenance
 Low operation costs
Disadvantages
 Poor performance for partial load
 Emission of waste water for wet cyclones
 Produce more noise.

2. Operation of Gravity Settlers in Air Treatment Plant

 Gravity settlers often referred to as gravity sedimentation chambers or gravity settlers, can be used
in air treatment systems to remove particulate matter from the air.

Calm Zone

Dust Particle

 Air Inlet:
 Polluted air containing particulate matter enters the gravity settler through an inlet.
 Quiescent Zone:
 As the contaminated air enters the settler, it encounters a quiescent or calm zone. This zone is
designed to reduce turbulence and allow the air to slow down.
 Gravity Settling:
 Under the influence of gravity, the heavier particulate matter in the air begins to settle
downward.
 Clarified Air Zone:
 Above the settled particles, a clarified air zone is formed. This zone contains air with reduced
concentrations of suspended particles.
 Particle Collection:
 The settled particles often referred to as dust or particulate matter, collect at the bottom of the
settler.
 Effluent Outlet:
 The cleaned air, now with reduced particulate content, exits the gravity settler through an
outlet called Effluent outlet.
Design Criteria for Gravity Settlers
 Particle Characteristics:
 The design should account for the specific characteristics of the particulate matter, as different
particles settle at different rates.
 Flow Rate:
 Determine the volumetric flow rate of the fluid (air or liquid) to be treated. The design should
accommodate the flow rate to ensure sufficient residence time for effective settling.
 Inlet Design:
 Design the inlet to promote a smooth and even distribution of the fluid across the settling area.
 Quiescent Zone:
 Create a quiescent or calm zone where the fluid can slow down, allowing gravity to act on the
particles.
 Gravity Settling Area:
 Determine the surface area of the settling chamber based on the flow rate and the desired
residence time. A larger settling area provides more space for particles to settle.
 Depth of Settling Chamber:
 The depth should be suitable for the specific characteristics of the particles being removed.
 Baffle System:
 Consider the incorporation of baffles to control the flow of fluid within the settler.
 Outlet Design:
 Design the outlet to allow for the removal of clarified fluid without disturbing the settled
particles.
 Dust Hopper:
 It provides a mechanism for collecting settled particles or sludge at the bottom of the settler.
 Material Selection:
 Choose materials for construction with corrosion resistance and structural integrity.
Advantages
 Simple Construction
 Low cost operation
 Require less space
Disadvantages
 Regular Maintenance is required
 Effective only for large and heavy particles
3. Operation of Wet Scrubbers in Air Treatment Plant
 Wet scrubbers are air pollution control devices that use a liquid (usually water) to remove
pollutants from an air stream.
 These devices are commonly used in industrial processes and power plants to control emissions of
particulate matter, gases, and other pollutants.
 When using a wet scrubber, flue gas is funneled through an area and sprayed with a wet substance.
 Water is used when dust and particulate matter is to be removed, but other chemicals can be
added.
 When the gas is sprayed with the fluid, the heavier pollutants are pulled out of the gas and attach
to the liquid because of its chemical composition.

 However, as the contaminants bind with the fluid as the gas is filtered through the pool; this leaves
the clean gas to pass out of the container.
Design Criteria for Wet Scrubbers
 Pollutant Characteristics: Identify the specific pollutants present in the gas stream, including
particulate matter, gases, or vapors.
 Gas Flow Rate and Temperature: Determine the volume and temperature of the gas stream
entering the scrubber.
 Scrubbing Liquid Selection: The scrubbing liquid should be compatible with the pollutants and
the materials used in the scrubber. Mostly water is used as the scrubbing liquid.
 Contact Time: The scrubber configuration and size should be selected to provide sufficient
contact time for effective pollutant removal.
 pH Control: Monitor and adjust the pH of the scrubbing solution as needed to maintain optimal
conditions.
  Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel, fiberglass, or other corrosion-resistant materials are
suitable.
Advantages
 High impurities removal efficiency
 Odor control
 Can able to handle flammable gases
4. Operation of Air Stripper in Air Treatment Plant
 An air stripper is a device used in air treatment processes to remove volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) and other contaminants from air or gas streams.
 The operation of an air stripper involves the use of various mechanisms to transfer contaminants
from the air or gas phase to a liquid phase, allowing for their subsequent removal or treatment.

Working of Air Treatment

 The contaminated air or gas stream is introduced into the air stripper. This stream typically
contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
 The contaminated air or gas is brought into contact with a liquid, often referred to as the stripping
liquid or absorbent.
 This liquid is chosen based on its ability to absorb or strip the target contaminants from the air.
 This involves the movement of contaminants from the air or gas phase to the liquid phase.
 The air or gas that has been stripped of contaminants exits the air stripper. This purified air can
then be released into the environment
 The liquid phase, now containing the absorbed contaminants, is collected and typically subjected
to additional treatment or disposal.
Design Consideration
 Air Flow Rate:
 Determine the volume of air to be treated per unit of time (flow rate) and the concentration of
contaminants in the air stream.
  Contaminant Characteristics:
 Identify the specific contaminants present in the air stream, including their chemical
properties, volatility, and concentration levels.
 Stripping Liquid Selection:
 Consider factors such as solubility, reactivity, and ease of regeneration for reusing the
stripping liquid.
 Mass Transfer Efficiency:
 Optimize the design for efficient mass transfer between the air and the stripping liquid. (e.g.,
packed tower, tray column, or spray column)
 Temperature Control:
 Consider the temperature conditions within the air stripper. Some contaminants may be more
efficiently removed at specific temperatures. Pressure Drop:
 Construction Materials:
 Select corrosion-resistant materials for construction, considering compatibility with the
stripping liquid and contaminants. Stainless steel, fiberglass etc.
5. Operation of Bag Filters in Air Treatment
 A fabric filter is a dust collection device made using a woven or non-woven filter bag that filters
and collects the dust in process gas.
 When the filter cloth is made into a cylindrical-shaped bag and suspended, it is referred to as a bag
house or a fabric filter.
 The bag filter is a mechanical device used in quality of air in pharmaceutical production and other
allied areas.

Process involved in Bag Filter

 Dirty air containing particulate matter enters the bag filter system through the inlet section.
 The heart of the bag filter system is the filter bags themselves. These bags are typically made of
 woven or felted fabric materials.
 Particles in the air are separated from the air stream as they collide with the filter material or
adhere to its surface.
 Over time, the captured particles accumulate on the surface of the filter bags, leading to a decrease
in airflow and an increase in pressure drop.
 Common cleaning methods include pulse jet cleaning and reverse air cleaning.
 The cleaned air exits the bag filter through the outlet section.
 The outlet section may have additional features such as dampers to control airflow or other
components to meet specific application requirements.
 The dust collected in the filter bags falls into a hopper at the bottom of the bag filter.
Design criteria for bag filters
 Particulate Size and Characteristics:
 Understand the size, nature, and characteristics of the particulate matter to be filtered.
 Airflow Volume and Velocity:
 Determine the required airflow volume and velocity through the bag filter system.
 Filtration Efficiency:
 Define the required level of filtration efficiency based on the application and environmental
regulations.
 Filter Media Selection:
 Choose the appropriate filter media based on the particulate characteristics, filtration
efficiency requirements, and operating conditions.
 Common filter media materials include woven or felted fabrics made of polyester,
polypropylene, fiberglass, or other materials.
 Bag Design and Configuration:
 Determine the design and configuration of the filter bags, including size, shape, and
arrangement.
 The design should facilitate even airflow distribution and effective cleaning during the
cleaning process.
 Cleaning Mechanism:
 Select the appropriate cleaning method for the bag filter system. Common cleaning
mechanisms include pulse jet cleaning and reverse air cleaning.
 Temperature and Humidity Considerations:
 High temperatures or humidity levels may require special considerations in filter media
selection and system design to prevent issues such as condensation or filter degradation.
 Dust Disposal and Collection:
 Plan for efficient and safe dust disposal. Include features such as a dust hopper and discharge
system for collecting and disposing of the accumulated impurities.
6. Operation and working of Electrostatic precipitators in Air Pollution Control
 An electrostatic precipitator is a filter less device that uses an electric charge to remove impurities
from the air that are in solid, droplet, gaseous, or liquid form.
 It is an air pollution control device used for removing pollutants from smokestacks of factories,
industrial manufacturing, and power plants.
 Many industries need electrostatic precipitators, since they work with fossil fuels, which results in
emission of harmful chemicals and flue gases in the atmosphere.
 The precipitator has the following components in its design that helps it work and function
properly. These components are:
 Electrodes
 440v 50Hz 3 phase supply
 Rectifier
 Hooper
 Insulator

Working Process
 Particle Charging: In the first stage, particles in the gas stream are electrically charged. This
charging is typically achieved through corona discharge or by using radioactive sources.
  Particle Collection: After charging, the particles are then attracted to oppositely charged
collection plates or electrodes located downstream.
 Particle Removal: Periodically, this layer must be removed from dust particles to maintain the
efficiency of the electrostatic precipitator and the clean air is sent into the environment.
 Cleaning System: Electrostatic precipitators may also incorporate cleaning systems to enhance
performance. ESPs utilize dry or wet cleaning mechanisms to remove sulfur dioxide (SO2) and
other acidic gases.
Advantages
 Initial cost is less
 Efficiency up to 99%
 Low maintenance is required
Disadvantages
 High cost Precipitators
 High Maintenance
 Large space required
Application
 Used for the cleaning of blast furnaces
 Used in medical fields for the elimination of bacteria and fungus.
 Used in air conditioning systems for purifying air.
 Used in pulp industries and in power plants

7. Operation of Bio Filters in Air Pollution Control

 Bio-filtration is a biological process used for the treatment of VOCs and inorganic compounds.
 Microorganisms are used for its application, subjecting the pollutants contained in the air to
biological degradation.
 Bio-filters are also one of the most widely-used technologies for odour treatment, due to their
excellent effectiveness and their ease of use and maintenance.
Process
 Bio-filters consist of a bed of porous material such as compost, wood chips, peat moss, or
synthetic media.
 Microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, colonize the surface of the filter bed
 As contaminated air passes through the bio-filter bed, the pollutants, including VOCs and odorous
compounds, are adsorbed onto the surface of the filter medium.
 The porous nature of the filter bed enhances the absorption process.
 Through biochemical processes, the microorganisms metabolize the pollutants, breaking them
down into simpler and less harmful compounds such as carbon dioxide, water, and microbial
biomass.
 Benefits of bio-filters
 Highly adaptable to clean various pollutants
 Can treat fine particles and low concentrations of ammonia.
 They are easy to build and install.
 Low investment and operating cost.
Applications
 General industrial odour treatment
 Metallurgical industry
 Landfills and municipal solid waste (MSW) plants
 Municipal wastewater treatment plants

8. Field Visit to an industry with air pollution control systems

 Visiting an industry with air pollution control systems can provide valuable insights into how
various technologies and strategies are implemented to mitigate environmental impacts.
 Visit areas where air pollution control systems are installed.
 Observe the equipment in action and understand its functioning.
 Note any maintenance activities being carried out and how the systems are monitored for
performance.
Emission Monitoring and Compliance:
 Learn about the emission monitoring protocols employed by the industry.
 Understand how emissions are measured, sampled, and reported to regulatory authorities.
 Discuss issues and any challenges faced in meeting regulatory standards.
 Environmental Management Practices:
 Explore broader environmental management practices within the facility.
 Understand how air pollution control fits into the broader environmental stewardship goals of the
industry.
Interaction with Experts:
 Engage in discussions with environmental engineers, operators, and technical experts responsible
for air pollution control.
 Seek insights into the selection, design, and operation of pollution control systems.
Q&A and Reflection:
 Reflect on the key takeaways from the field visit and how they relate to broader concepts in air
pollution control and environmental management.
Follow-Up and Further Learning:
 Reflect on how the insights gained from the field visit can inform your understanding of air
pollution control and environmental sustainability.

2 MARKS QUESTIONS
1. Define air pollution.
Air pollution is defined as the pollution in the atmospheric air, due to the presence of solid, liquid or
gaseous material causes the problems to humans, living systems, plants etc.
2. Define primary pollutants. Give examples.
Pollutants directly emitted from the identifiable sources are called primary air pollutants.
Examples: SO2, CO, CO2, NO, NO2.
3. What are the major effects of air pollutants on human health?
 Effects on Visibility
 Breathing Troubles
 Increases Blood Pressure
 Heart and Lung Diseases etc.
4. What is the main objective of using air pollution control equipment?
 Controlling the effects of air pollution on public
 Protection of animals, plants, etc.
 Protection of properties against pollutants attack.
 Providing the pollution free environment, etc.
5. Write two advantages of gravity separators.
 High efficiency
 Fabric filters can remove very small particles in dry state.
 When the performance reduces, it produces pre-warning.
6. List out types of scrubbers in pollution control devices.
 Spray towers
 Venturi scrubbers
 Cyclone scrubbers
 Packed scrubbers
 Mechanical scrubbers.
7. Write any two pollution control equipments.
 Gravitational Settling Chambers.
 Cyclone collectors,
 Wet Scrubbers etc.
8. What is the Absorption?
Absorption is also a natural process, in which gaseous and particulate matters of air pollutants are
collected either by mist or rain and settle down with mist or rain.
9. What is the Adsorption?
Adsorption is the physical process of collecting the gaseous, liquid and solid air pollutants in the air
by a surface, where they are concentrated and retained.
10. State the mechanisms of controlling gaseous pollutants.
The gaseous pollutants can be controlled by
 Absorption,
 Adsorption,
 Combustion &
 Condensation
11. What is Bio-Scrubber?
Bio-scrubbers or biological scrubbers are the biological reactors, used to remove Volatile Organic
Compounds (VOCs) and odorous molecules present in industrial gaseous emissions.
12. What type of pollutants are electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) most effective at removing from
industrial emissions?
Electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) are most effective at removing particulate pollutants including,
 Fine dust particles and
 Aerosols, from industrial emissions.
13. List out the applications of ESP.
 Cement factories
 Cleaning of flue gas from cement
 Pulp and Paper- Soda- fume recovery in mills.
 Petroleum Industry- Recovery of catalyst dust.
14. What are indoor air contaminants?
Carbon dioxide (CO2), tobacco smoke, perfume etc.
15. Give some advantages of Bag Filter
 Low power consumption
 Simple construction
 High quality filter bags
16. Name some Bio-Filters used in pollution control device
 Trickling filters in wastewater
 Horizontal rock filters
 Sand filters
17. What is the primary advantage of using a cyclone separator in air pollution control?
 Simple and low maintenance
 Cost-effective operation