Air Pollution Control Equipment Selection Guide, 3rd Edition

32

Tray Scrubber (Tray Tower) Optimization

Tray-type scrubbers have been used extensively for gas absorption, gas cooling, and particulate removal. The designs go back to the early 20th century and their characteristics have been well explored over the years. That is not to say that their operation cannot be optimized, however.

32.1 Possible Problems

Some problems that may occur are given below:

1. Inconsistent operation

2. Unusual wear or solids build-up on the trays

3. Weeping (when weeping is not desired)

4. Sudden change in pressure drop

5. Decrease in efficiency (particularly if a change in the application has occurred)

6. Solids build up on the underside of the lowest tray

7. Poor droplet separation.

32.2 Optimization Possibilities

Some things ...