Predicting efficiency for electrostatic precipitation of fly ash from small-scale solid fuel combustion

Abstract

The present study investigates methods for predicting the efficiency of electrostatic precipitation for controlling particulate matter (PM) emissions from small-scale heating units, namely, solid fuel combustion boilers with heating power output less than 300 kW. The prediction correctness for particle precipitation efficiency is considered on the basis of the accuracy of the estimated charge on a particle. Prediction of the specific PM from small-scale boilers requires a relevant model of specified particle charging. Three appropriate particle charge models have been used to predict the efficiency of a specific electrostatic precipitator (ESP). The prediction results are compared on the basis of experimental measurements taken from an ESP used to control the emissions from a 160-kW boiler. The measurements are based on different physical principles and are undertaken simultaneously. The optimal method for particle charge evaluation is determined to allow the practical modeling of an ESP to control the PM emissions from small-scale units with solid fuel combustion.