Page 1 of 30

SYLLABUS
Air pollution control equipments viz. settling chambers, inertial separators, cyclones,
multiple cyclones, bag house filters, scrubbers or wet collectors, electrostatic precipitators,
Advantages and disadvantages of control equipments.
Air pollution abatement technologies including vehicular emissions.

Air Pollution:
In general, the actions of people are the primary cause of pollution and as the population
increases, the pollution problems also increase proportionately. The first significant change in
mans effect on nature came with his discovery of fire. Prehistoric man built a fire in his cave for
cooking, heating, and to provide light. The problem of air pollution came into existence at this
time and kept on aggravating with time.

Air pollution is the modification of the natural characteristics of the atmosphere by a chemical,
particulate matter, or biological agent.

Air pollution is the appearance of air contaminants in the atmosphere that can create a harmful
environment to human health or welfare, animal or plant life, or property.

Air pollution is the presence in the air of substances which pose a potential threat to human
health and/or the environment.

According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), IS 4167 (1966): Air pollution is the
presence in ambient atmospheres of substances, generally resulting from the activity of man, in
sufficient concentration, present for a sufficient time and under circumstances such as to interfere
with comfort, health or welfare of persons or with reasonable use or enjoyment of property.

According to American Medical Association: Air pollution is the excessive concentration of
foreign matter in the air which adversely affects the well being of the individual or causes
damage to property.

Ambient Air means outdoor surrounding air. Indoor air means air inside the room of a building.
Much of the works and problems associated in todays world are because of the small set of six
primary pollutants present in the air called Criteria pollutant by USA, European Union and
WHO, these are : CO, NO
2
, O
3
, SO
2
, PM
10
and Pb.

PM
10
: Particulate Matter with an aerodynamic diameter less than 10 m.

RSPM/RPM: Respirable Particulate Matter, the particles which can find its way to lungs through
inhalation, particles having dia less than 10 m i.e. PM
10
.

PM
2.5
: Particulate Matter with an aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 m.

Human hair has approximate diameter of 100 m.

Q. NAAQS is the acronym for.?
Page 2 of 30

Q. What is the permissible level of RSPM in ambient air for residential area?
Q. What is the permissible level of CO in ambient air of sensitive area?
Q. What is the permissible level of Lead (Pb) in ambient air of industrial area?
Q. What is the permissible level of NH
3
in Residential, Commercial & Industrial area?

National Ambient Air Quality Standards
Pollutants
Time-
weighted
average
Concentration in Ambient Air
Method of measurement Industrial
Areas
Residential,
Rural &
other Areas
Sensitive
Areas
Sulphur Dioxide
(SO
2
)
Annual
Average*
80 g/m
3
60 g/m
3
15 g/m
3

- Improved West and Geake Method
- Ultraviolet Fluorescence
24 hours** 120 g/m
3
80 g/m
3
30 g/m
3

Oxides of
Nitrogen as
(NO
2
)
Annual
Average*
80 g/m
3
60 g/m
3
15 g/m
3

- Jacob & Hochheiser Modified (Na-
Arsenite) Method
24 hours** 120 g/m
3
80 g/m
3
30 g/m
3
- Gas Phase Chemiluminescence
Suspended Particulate
Matter
(SPM)
Annual
Average*
360 g/m
3
140 g/m
3
70 g/m
3

- High Volume Sampling, (Average flow
rate not less than 1.1 m
3
/minute).
24 hours** 500 g/m
3
200 g/m
3
100 g/m
3

Respirable Particulate
Matter (RPM)
(dia < 10 m)
Annual
Average*
120 g/m
3
60 g/m
3
50 g/m
3

- Respirable particulate matter sampler
24 hours** 150 g/m
3
100 g/m
3
75 g/m
3

Lead
(Pb)
Annual
Average*
1.0 g/m
3
0.75 g/m
3
0.50 g/m
3

- AAS Method after sampling using EPM
2000 or equivalent Filter paper
24 hours** 1.5 g/m
3
1.00 g/m
3
0.75 g/m
3
.
Ammonia Annual
Average*
0.1 mg/ m
3
0.1 mg/ m
3
0.1 mg/m
3

.
24 hours** 0.4 mg/ m
3
0.4 mg/m
3
0.4 mg/m
3
.
Carbon Monoxide
(CO)
8 hours** 5.0 mg/m
3
2.0 mg/m
3
1.0 mg/ m
3
- Non Dispersive Infra Red (NDIR)
1 hour 10.0 mg/m
3
4.0 mg/m
3
2.0 mg/m
3
- Spectroscopy

* Annual Arithmetic mean of minimum 104 measurements in a year taken twice a week 24 hourly at uniform interval.
** 24 hourly/8 hourly values should be met 98% of the time in a year. However, 2% of the time, it may exceed but not on two
consecutive days.

Primary and secondary pollutants:

Primary pollutants are those which are emitted directly from identifiable sources.
Particulates, SO
2
, Oxides of nitrogen, CO, radioactive elements, halogens and organic
compounds, fumes, carbon, pollens, bacteria etc. are the different primary pollutants.

Secondary pollutants are those which are formed in the air formed in the air to interaction
of primary air pollutants among themselves or by reaction with normal atmospheric constituents
like sunlight, water vapour etc. with or without photo activation. Eg. Ozone, Formaldehyde,
CH
2
O, PAN (Peroxy Acetyl Nitrate) CH
3
(CO)O
2
.NO
2
, Smog, Photochemical smog etc.




Page 3 of 30

Collection Efficiency:

It is defined as the quantity of particulates collected from the gas from the total quantity of
particulates present in the gas. It is generally expressed as percentage by symbol (nita).

= [
WcIght oI matcrIaI coIIcctcd
TotaI amount cntcrIng coIIcctor
x 1uu

In particulate collection systems, the efficiency of collection varies with particle size. This
variation of efficiency is often expressed in the form of fractional efficiency. It is the efficiency
with which particles of a specified size range are collected.

The overall efficiency i.e. total efficiency
T
can be calculated over n number of size fraction as:

T
=
mi ni
n
i=1
M
%

Where,
m
i
= mass fraction of i
th
size particle
n
i
= fractional efficiency of i
th
size particle
M = total amount entering the collector.

Example: 1.

The following table shows the size distribution of a dust sample and the fractional efficiency of
removal in a gas cleaning equipment. Calculate the overall collector efficiency.

Dust size Weight of dust (gm), mi
Fractional efficiency
i

(%)
< 5 2 1
5 to 50 63 70
51 to 70 20 80
> 70 65 100

Solution:

T
=
mi ni
n
i=1
M
%

mi ni
n
=1
= (
2
150
x 1 ) + (
63
150
x 7u ) + (
20
150
x 8u ) + (
65
150
x 1uu )
= 0.0133 + 29.4 + 10.67 + 43.34
= 83.42
M = 2 + 63 + 20 + 65 = 150 gm

T =
83.42
150
= u.SS6u, therefore
T
= 55.60 %



PARTICULATE CONTROL EQUIPMENTS

1. Gravitational settling
2. Inertial separator
3. Cyclone separators (multiple
4. Fabric filters/ bag house filters
5. Scrubber/ wet collectors
6. Electro static precipitator

The gravitational settling chambers and cyclone separators will not generally achieve
high efficiencies for removing small size particles. For most of the practical applications, only
fabric filters, electrostatic precipitators and high en
rigorous air pollution control regulations.
Among all control devices
the particulate emissions.

GRAVITATIONAL SETTLING CHAMBERS

It is simplest of all the pollution control devices. The gravitational force acting on the particles is
used to separate the particles from the gas stream by allowing it to sufficiently stay in the settling
chamber by reducing the velocity of flow by providing large area
based on the principle of stokes law



The terminal settling velocity can be calculated by using the stokes law:

V
t
= terminal settling velocity
g = acceleration due to gravity, 9.8

p
= density of particle, kg/m

g
= density of gas, kg/m
3

u
p
= diameter of the particle, m
CULATE CONTROL EQUIPMENTS
separators (multiple cyclones)
bag house filters
Scrubber/ wet collectors
c precipitator
The gravitational settling chambers and cyclone separators will not generally achieve
high efficiencies for removing small size particles. For most of the practical applications, only
fabric filters, electrostatic precipitators and high energy scrubbers are capable of meeting the
rigorous air pollution control regulations.
control devices electrostatic precipitators are the most efficient for controlling
GRAVITATIONAL SETTLING CHAMBERS
of all the pollution control devices. The gravitational force acting on the particles is
used to separate the particles from the gas stream by allowing it to sufficiently stay in the settling
chamber by reducing the velocity of flow by providing large area. The design of the chamber is
based on the principle of stokes law.

The terminal settling velocity can be calculated by using the stokes law:
v
t
=
g [
p
-
g
u
p
2

18
g

= terminal settling velocity, m/s
= acceleration due to gravity, 9.8 m/s
2

, kg/m
3

, m
Page 4 of 30
The gravitational settling chambers and cyclone separators will not generally achieve
high efficiencies for removing small size particles. For most of the practical applications, only
ergy scrubbers are capable of meeting the
electrostatic precipitators are the most efficient for controlling
GRAVITATIONAL SETTLING CHAMBERS
of all the pollution control devices. The gravitational force acting on the particles is
used to separate the particles from the gas stream by allowing it to sufficiently stay in the settling
. The design of the chamber is

The terminal settling velocity can be calculated by using the stokes law:
Page 5 of 30

g
= kinematic viscosity of gas, m
2
/s

Simplified terminal velocity = 30,000
p
u
p
2
(by putting the values of each components)

Q. Compute the terminal settling velocity in air of a sphere with diameter 1.0 m. Consider
density of the particle as 2000 kg/m
3
and density of gas as 1.20 kg/m
3
at a given particular
temperature. Consider kinematic viscosity of the gas as 1.51 x 10
-5
m
2
/s. (Ans: 7.21 x 10
-5

m/s)

Laminar flow: Reynolds number < 2300
Turbulent flow: Reynolds number > 2300

Reynolds number, Re =
v D
h
p

v = velocity inside the chamber, velocity of particles is considered same as the velocity of gas
stream.
D
h
= hydraulic diameter of the flow
= density of the fluid, for dry air it is 1.205 kg/m
3
at 20C.
= Kinematic viscosity of the fluid, for dry air it is 1.51 x 10
-5
m
2
/s.
The hydraulic diameter, D
h
, is a commonly used term when handling flow in noncircular tubes
and channels. Using this term one can calculate many things in the same way as for a round tube.
B
h
=
4 x Aiea
Peiimetei

Where, Area is the cross sectional area and Perimeter is the wetted perimeter of the cross-section
of the flow.
For a round tube, this is: B
h
=
4 x r
2
2r
= 2 r = Diameter
The minimum particle size that can be removed with 100% efficiency can be found from the
equation:
u
p, mIn
= _
18
g
Q
nWLg (
p

g
)

Where,
u
p, mIn
= minimum particle size that can be removed with 100% efficiency

g
= viscosity of gas
Q = volumetric flow rate of the gas, m
3
/s
n = number of trays including bottom of the chamber
W = width of the chamber
L = length of the chamber

p
= density of particle, kg/m
3

g
= density of gas, kg/m
3


Page 6 of 30

The above equation is used only as approximation of collection efficiency of the settling
chamber, as several other factors cause the deviations in the efficiency. These include hindered
settling at high particle concentrations, non-uniform gas velocity over the settling height and
width, particle re-entrainment, and turbulence. As a general rule, chamber velocities below 3 m/s
are satisfactory for avoiding re-entrainment of most particles.
Although the efficiency relationship is based on laminar flow conditions within the unit,
it is practically impossible to achieve laminar conditions without a very large particle size or an
inordinately large number of trays combined with an awkward shape of chamber. Hence, the
flow in the settling chamber will probably be turbulent rather than laminar. For turbulent flow,
the following theoretical equation can be used for calculating the collection efficiency by
following equation:

= 1 -exp
[-
nWLV
t

Q



Where, Vt = terminal settling velocity and other terms implies as usual discussed earlier.

Advantages of gravity settling chambers:
Low initial cost
Simple construction, operation and maintenance
Continuous disposal of solid particles
Can be constructed of any material according to the temperature and pressure requirements.

Disadvantages of gravity settling chambers:
Aberration problem of collector walls.
Re-entrainment of particles (settled particles again enter into the flow) for higher velocity,
hence velocity of entering gas generally to be kept below 3 m/s.
Large volume of gas to be handled has problem for a smaller dia collector.
The efficiency is better for the particles above size 50 m diameter, particles having dia < 50
m has lesser collection efficiency.
It removes only particulate matters, gaseous impurities are not removed.

Q. A multi tray settling chamber having 8 trays including the bottom surface handles 6 m3/s
of air at 20C. The trays are spaced 0.25 m apart and the chamber is to be 1 m wide and 4 m
long.
i. What is the minimum particle size of density 2000 kg/m3 that can be collected with 100%
efficiency?
ii. What will be the efficiency of the settling chamber if 50m particles are to be removed?
Assume the flow to be laminar inside the chamber and no dust to be present initially on trays.

g
at 20C = 1.81 x 10
-5
kg/ms. (Ans: i. 56 m, ii. 80%)

Hint: p
dp
= _
d

d
, mn
]
2
where, p
dp
is the % efficiency for a particular dia particle.

Q. In the above example, estimate whether the laminar flow assumption is justified? If not,
what is the collection efficiency for 56 and 50 m particle? (Ans: Not justified, 63%, 55%)

Page 7 of 30

Determination of Length for a flow for having 100 % collection efficiency
Collection efficiency, = Ration of the space (area) where dust is collected and total area
available for collection.

=
W . Y
W . AH
,

Where,
Y is the thickness of the collected dust.
H is the space between the trays.
W is the width of the chamber.

V
t
V
=
Y
L
, Y =
LV
t
V


Where, L = length of the chamber
Vt = terminal settling velocity of the particles
V = Q velocity.

=
W . Y
W . AH
=
LV
t
V AH
(by putting the value of Y)
=
LV
t
. nW
Q
(by putting V =
Q
A
=
Q
n AH W
)
L =
Q
n . V
t
. W
, for = 1, i.e 100%
Time interval for cleaning/removing dust
m
p
= C
mv
. Q

= pcr unit timc,

= pcr unit orco

Kg/sec = kg/m
3
x m
3
/sec
C
mv
= mass volume concentration of dust i.e. kg/m
3
, Q = m
3
/s

=
mass oI dust accumuIatcd
mass oI fIow ratc . totaI tImc

=
m
d
m

Therefore, t =
m
d
m

q

t =
m
d
q C
mv
. Q



Page 8 of 30

CYCLONE
It is also called as inertial separators, centrifugal collectors. When used in multiple numbers
simultaneously in series to handle large volume of air its called multiple cyclones.

Its application: Cement manufacturing unit, food and grain processing, beverage processing,
mineral processing, paper and textile industries, utensils making industries, buffing units and in
other units where disintegration process is involved.

Efficiency: It has 70% efficiency for 15 to 40 m particles.

Advantages of cyclones:
Low initial cost
Simple construction and operation
Low pressure drop and low maintenance
Continuous disposal of solid particles
Can be constructed of any material according to the temperature and pressure
requirements.
Disadvantages of cyclone:
Aberration problem of collector walls.
In high efficient cyclone, dia is less, so plugging problem and it needs frequent cleaning.
Re-entrainment of particles (settled particles again enter into the flow)
Large volume of gas to be handled has problem for a smaller dia collector.

Erosion problem of cyclone: Impingement or rubbing of wall is more at the just opposite wall
of inlet and is more at the bottom where dust is collected. For prevention increase the diameter of
the cyclone cylinder but keep outlet diameter same. Use the abrasion resistant wall.

Cyclone Consists of:
i. Tangential gas inlet
ii. An axial gas outlet
iii. Main body having vertical cylinder with tapering bottom
iv. Conical shaped lower section with an axial dust outlet

Cyclone separators utilize a centrifugal force generated by a spinning gas stream to
separate the particulate matter from the carrier gas. The centrifugal force on particles in a
spinning gas stream is much greater than gravity, therefore cyclones are effective in removal of
much smaller particles than gravitational settling chambers, and require much less space to
handle the same gas volume.

A typical conventional standard cyclone has vertical cylinder with conical bottom and is
fitted with a tangential inlet located near the top and an outlet at the bottom of the cone for
discharging separated particles. The gas outlet pipe is extended into the cylinder to prevent direct
escaping of dust laden gases entering through tangential inlet to outlet pipe.

In operation, the particles laden gas upon entering the cyclone cylinder receives a rotating
motion. The vortex so formed develops a centrifugal force, which acts to throw the particles
Page 9 of 30

radially towards the wall. The gas spirals downward to the bottom of the cone, and at the bottom
the gas flow reverses to form an inner vortex which leaves through the outlet pipe from where
the gas is sent to the atmosphere though stack attached to it having adequate height to further
dissipate if any suspended materials left into it.

Working Principle:
In a cyclone, the inertial separating force is the radial component of the simple centrifugal force
and is a function of the tangential velocity. The centrifugal force is expressed as F
c
, where
F
c
=
m

2
r

Where, m = mass of the particle

= tangential velocity of the particle (and gas) as the particles move at the same
tangential velocity at which gas is moving
r = radius of rotation


Separation factor (S): It is the ratio of the centrifugal force (mv
2
/r) and the gravitational force
(mg). It is a dimensionless factor.

S =

2
r

Page 10 of 30


Where, S = Separation factor

= tangential velocity of the particle/gas

g = 9.8 m/s
2

r = radius of rotation

Separation factor varies from 5 in large and low velocity unit to 2500 in small and high
pressure units. Higher the separation factor better is the efficiency of the cyclone. But till present
no direct correlation has been established between separation factor and collection efficiency
because of the factors such as re-entrainment, bounce, and particle interactions. However
collection efficiency is a function of the separation factor.

The most satisfactory expression for cyclone performance is still the empirical one.
Lapple correlated collection efficiency in terms of the cut size diameter, which is dia of those
particles which can be collected with 50% efficiency i.e. d
0.5
.
u
0.5
= _
9

v(
p

)

Where,
u
0.5
= Cut size diameter, i.e. particle size for which collection efficiency is 50%

= Viscosity of gas/air
b = width of inlet duct

= effective number of turns made in traversing the cyclone

=

(2
1
+
2
),
1
&
2
are the length of the cylinder and cone, respectively.
v = gas inlet velocity.

The efficiency of collection of various particle sizes () can be determined from Lapples
empirical expression and graph below:

Q. What is Cyclone dust separator? Show the proportions of a standard conventional cyclone
with schematic diagramme. Define its working principle with advantages and disadvantages of
using it. For which types of Industries you will recommend Cyclone separators?


Page 11 of 30

GENERALISED CYCLONE DESIGN CONFIGURATIONS:

Symbol Nomenclature Conventional type High Efficiency
D
2
Cyclone Diameter 1.0 1.0
H Entrance Height 0.5 0.5
B Entrance Width 0.25 0.2
L
3
Exit length 0.625 0.5
D
e
Exit diameter 0.5 0.5
L
1
Cylinder Height 2.0 1.5
L
2
Conical Height 2.0 2.0
D
d
Dust exit diameter 0.25 0.375
Q. A conventional cyclone with diameter 1.0 m handles 3.0 m
3
/s of air carrying particles with
density of 2000 kg/m
3
. For Ne = 6, determine the size of the particle for which collection
efficiency would be 50%. (Ans: 4.7 m)

Q. Determine the efficiency of a standard cyclone having the following characteristics for
particles 10 m in diameter with a density of 800 kg/m
3
.
Cyclone barrel diameter = 0.50 m
Gas flow rate = 4.0 m
3
/s
Page 12 of 30

Gas temperature = 20C.

Ans: dynamic viscosity of air, at 20C = 1.81 x 10
-5
kg/ms (from the air temperature and
viscosity table)
For standard cyclone, B= 0.25 x 0.50m = 0.13 m
H= 0.50 x 0.50m= 0.25m
L
1
= L
2
= 2 x 0.50m= 1.0 m
N = /H * (2L
1
+ L
2
)
= /0.25 * (2 + 1)
= 37.7
D
0.5
= [(9 B) / (2NV (
p

a
))]
1/2
= x m,
Therefore, d/d
50
= 10 m / x m=?
From the graph of d/d
0.5
vs. efficiency, efficiency can be read.

MULTIPLE CYCLONES
Smaller cyclones operating together in parallel are collectively called as multiple
cyclones. These are also called as multi-cyclones, tubular cyclones, tubular collectors and
multiple collectors.
Care to avoid channeling of dirty gas in any particular cyclone.
Hopper should be designed taking the centrifugal action of small diameters of the cyclones.
Since velocity and rate of dust collection is higher, continuous storage bin emptying is required.
It has good abrasion resistance, is compact, efficient in collecting heavy particles and has
convenient inlet and outlet arrangement.
Cyclone in series
Efficiency given by: =
p
+
s
(100-
p
)
Where = efficiency of the combination of both cyclones

p
= efficiency of the primary cyclone

s
= efficiency of the secondary cyclone
Secondary cyclone serves to remove particles which are not collected in the first cyclone left
due to accidental entrainment in the vortex and entrainment due to eddy .
Advantageous when large degree of dust collection required. Even if primary is plugged still
secondary can work. A primary large diameter can be used to collect coarse material which
would otherwise clog the smaller passages of efficient cyclones.
Generally installed before electrostatic precipitator. High overall efficiencies obtained in case
particles can be removed in cyclones.
Efficiency Ranges of Cyclones
Particle size
range, m
Efficiency Range, , i.e. % weight collected
Conventional High Efficiency
< 5 < 50 50 to 80
5 to 20 50 to 80 80 to 95
15 to 40 70 to 90 95 to 99
> 40 95 to 99 95 to 99


Page 13 of 30

BAG HOUSE FILTERS

BAG FILTERS: Used in Cement Industry, Floor Mills, Ingot making, building materials dust
removal, grain processing, soap powders, dry chemical recovery, Brick works, ceramics
industry, chalk and lime plants, foundries, talc dust recovery, dry food processing, metals dust
recovery, fertiliser dust removal, etc.

One of the oldest and most widely used methods of separating particulates from a carrier gas is
filtration.

Material of filter: Woven or felted textile material. Heat resistant materials are used: e.g. Fabric
glass (resist upto 150C), Teflon (resists upto 500C). These are in the shape of sleeve or tube,
with dia varying between 12.5 to 30 cm and length 2 to 6 m based upon the type of industry and
need. Fiber used in making bags is Crossed mesh. Spacing 100 to 200 m. Thickness of fiber
500 m.

Filter should be:
1. Durable
2. Chemical resistant
3. Robust to resist rupture
4. Temperature tolerant

HEPA: High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter used for military and nuclear reactor container
vessels. Material of very fine glass fiber. Fiber dia. < 1 m held together by organic binders.
Efficiency 99.97 % for 0.3 m particles.

Air Cloth Ratio (ACR) = It is an important parameter for the selection of material to be filtered.
= (Vol. of gas flow rate filtered) / (Surface area of the filter)
= (m
3
/s) / m
2

=
m/s
= Also called Filtering Velocity
= Superficial Velocity.
Range = 5 to 75 m/s
High ACR: for more flow rate less surface area.
Low ACR: more surface area of filter and less gas flow rate.

MECHANISM FOR PARTICLE SEPERATION BY FILTER:
1) Inertial Impaction
2) Direct Interception
3) Diffusion

The particles in the dust laden air follow the laminar path as long as they reach the filter element.
When the filter element comes in the way the particles are unable to follow the air path and get
attached to the filter element and the air gets clean. Larger the particle more the mechanism is
effective. Smaller particles after reaching near to the fiber get attracted and adhere because of
Vander Walls forces. Small particles are retained on the fabric, initially through interception and

electrostatic attraction; and latter
particles more efficiently.

BAGHOUSE: A closed chamber containing several vertically hang
Upper ends of the bags are closed, and lower ends are attached to a hopper where the inlet of flue
gas is also located. The upward moving gas drops out particulate matter in these bags, which
settle down into the hopper, and cl
is provided with an automatic shaking device for cleaning the bags having deposited dusts. In
some cases the cleaning is done by introducing air flow as in pulse jet filters and reverse air fl
filters.


CLASSIFICATION OF BAG FILTERS

1. On the basis of cleaning time:
a. Intermittent type:

electrostatic attraction; and latter on, when a dust mat is formed, the fabric starts collecting
A closed chamber containing several vertically hanging fabric cylindrical bags.
Upper ends of the bags are closed, and lower ends are attached to a hopper where the inlet of flue
gas is also located. The upward moving gas drops out particulate matter in these bags, which
settle down into the hopper, and cleaner gas goes out through the fabric filters. The hanging bags
is provided with an automatic shaking device for cleaning the bags having deposited dusts. In
some cases the cleaning is done by introducing air flow as in pulse jet filters and reverse air fl
Installation example of Fabric Filter
CLASSIFICATION OF BAG FILTERS
On the basis of cleaning time:
a. Intermittent type: Single chamber, suitable for small size particles and handling small
volume of flow operations.
Page 14 of 30
when a dust mat is formed, the fabric starts collecting
ing fabric cylindrical bags.
Upper ends of the bags are closed, and lower ends are attached to a hopper where the inlet of flue
gas is also located. The upward moving gas drops out particulate matter in these bags, which
eaner gas goes out through the fabric filters. The hanging bags
is provided with an automatic shaking device for cleaning the bags having deposited dusts. In
some cases the cleaning is done by introducing air flow as in pulse jet filters and reverse air flow


Single chamber, suitable for small size particles and handling small
Page 15 of 30

b. Continuous type: Compartmentalized, for handling large volume operation.

2. On the basis of cleaning mechanism:
a. Shaking: Bags suspended with hooks. Hooks give oscillation. This oscillation
provides enough energy to dislodge the dust. The purpose of oscillation is to provide enough
energy to dislodge the dust. It is a violent/vigorous movement. Cleaning is violent thats why life
of bag is not so much. It requires replacement after certain time interval. Its for mild dusts.
Generally used for small scale operation.

b. Reverse air flow: Iron/steel ring sewed along the length of bag to avoid total
collapsing.

c. Pulse jet: Its also violent/ vigorous. High air pressure air is introduced from the top
through Venturi. Short waves are created and bags inflate along the length. This helps in
dislodging the particulate matters deposited on the surface of the bag.
Advantages of pulse jet
We can do filtration and cleaning of bags at the same time.
We need not to shut down any system.
All the bags are cleaned simultaneously.
Highest volume of air flow ratio

BAG FILTERS
Darcys relation for pressure drop P (Important for estimation of design parameters)
Even after cleaning constant mass of collected dust always remain on the filter. I.e.
Equilibrium dust content of filter
Equilibrium dust content depends upon
i. Type of filter
ii. Size of dust
iii. Type & timing of cleaning method.

P = P
f
+ P
d


= K
1
V + K
2
V.C
ma

= (K
1
+ K
2
C
ma
) V
= (K
1
+ K
2
C
ma
) Q/A
Where,
P = Pressure drop across dust loaded filter
P
f
= Pressure drop across the filter when it is clean
P
d
= Pressure drop across the filter with dust
C
ma
= Mass area concentration of dust. Kg/m
2
of the bag.
K
1
= Constant for filter element, Ranges 12,000 < K
1
< 1,20,000, Unit: Newton.Sec/m
3

K
2
= Constant for filter element, Ranges 10,000 < K
1
< 1,30,000, Unit: Sec
-1


C
ma
= more the thickness of dust more is C
ma .


= more the timing of cleaning more is C
ma .

C
mv
= mass volume concentration of the dust, Unit: kg/m
3

Page 16 of 30

C
ma
= Ratio of the mass collected when the filter is cleaned to the area of filter
= (Q . C
mv
. t ) / A
f

Where, A
f
= Area of filter
t = time since the filter is cleaned.
Just after cleaning, C
ma
= 0, thus P = (K
1
+ K
2
C
ma
) Q/A
= K
1
Q/A
therfore, K
1
= P.A / Q
Before cleaning Bag: K
2
= [(P.A / Q) K
1
] / C
ma

Power required to overcome the pressure drop = Q. P watt, where P = pressure drop in
Newton/m
2
, Q = Volumetric flow rate of air in m
3
/s.

Q. A filter has K
1
= 30,000 N.s/m
3
and K
2
= 75,000 s
-1
. The filter area is 8000 m
2
, Q is 120 m
3
/s
and C
mv
is 0.02 kg/m
3
. What is the pressure drop through the filter immediately after cleaning
and after 3 hrs of operation? (Ans: 450 N/m
2
, after 3 hrs. 4095 N/m
2
)

Q. A filter has 1000 m
2
of face area and treats 10 m
3
/s of air carrying dust with a concentration
C
mv
equal to 0.001 kg/m
3
. Assume K1 = 20,000 N.s/m
3
, and K
2
= 25,000 S
-1
. If the filter must be
cleaned when P = 2000 N/m
2
, after what period of time cleaning must occur?

Q. In a test for measuring K
1
& K
2
, the following data were obtained:
P after cleaning = 400 N/m
2

P before cleaning = 2100 N/m
2

Flow rate = 0.5 m
3
/s
Mass collected = 55 kg
Filter area = 40 m
2
Determine K
1
& K
2
.

Advantages of the fabric filters:
High collection efficiency for all particle sizes especially for particles smaller than 10 m
Retention of finest particles possible
Simple construction and operation
Nominal power consumption
Dry disposal of collected materials
Disadvantages of fabric filters:
Larger size of equipment
High initial installation cost
High maintenance and fabric replacement cost
Humid gases makes the filter blind and blocks the passage of air through it
High temperature gases or corrosive gases destroys the fabric



ELECTROSTATIC PRECIPITATOR

Its application: ESP is widely used in thermal power plants, pulp and paper industries, cement
industry, mining and metallurgical industries, iron and steel plants, chemical industries, etc.

ESP has many advantages over other types of particulate collection devices. Precipitators
are unique in that the collecting force is applied only to the material being collecte
the total gas stream. ESP has the ability to handle very large gas flow rate (Q) and can remove
very small particles at high efficiency. They can operate over a wide range of conditions,
temperatures up to 800C and pressure of 50 atmospheres.
ELECTROSTATIC PRECIPITATOR (ESP)
Installation example of ESP
idely used in thermal power plants, pulp and paper industries, cement
d metallurgical industries, iron and steel plants, chemical industries, etc.
ESP has many advantages over other types of particulate collection devices. Precipitators
are unique in that the collecting force is applied only to the material being collecte
ESP has the ability to handle very large gas flow rate (Q) and can remove
very small particles at high efficiency. They can operate over a wide range of conditions,
temperatures up to 800C and pressure of 50 atmospheres.
Page 17 of 30
(ESP)


idely used in thermal power plants, pulp and paper industries, cement
d metallurgical industries, iron and steel plants, chemical industries, etc.
ESP has many advantages over other types of particulate collection devices. Precipitators
are unique in that the collecting force is applied only to the material being collected and not to
ESP has the ability to handle very large gas flow rate (Q) and can remove
very small particles at high efficiency. They can operate over a wide range of conditions,
Page 18 of 30


Dry collection of particles from hot gas streams can be obtained by electrostatic
precipitation of the particles. The ESP is usually constructed of alternating plates and wires. A
large direct current potential (30 to 75 kV) is established between the plates and wires. This
results in the creation of an ion field between the wire and plate. As the particle laden gas stream
passes between the wire and the plate, ions attach to the particles, giving them a net negative
charge. The particles then migrate toward the positively charged plate where they stick. The
plates are rapped at frequent intervals and the agglomerated sheet of particles falls to a hopper.

Unlike the bag house, the gas flow between the plates is not stopped during cleaning. The
gas velocity through the ESP is kept low (less than 1.5 m/s) to allow particle migration. Thus, the
terminal settling velocity of the sheet is sufficient to carry it to the hopper before it exits the
precipitator.


Page 19 of 30



Particles in air may have a positive, negative or no charge because air is a poor conductor
of electricity. Introduction of a high energy electrical field in a gas result in the formation of
large concentration of charged ions. This charge is given to particle in electrically active region
i.e. the Corona region, which is an active glow zone near negative discharge electrodes. As the
particle laden gas stream passes through this corona region it acquires a net negative charge. The
particles then migrate toward the positively charged plates where they stick. The plates are
rapped at frequent intervals and the accumulated sheet of particles falls to a collecting hopper
below.
Advantages of ESP:
High collection efficiency (>99% collection efficiency can be achieved)
Even more efficient for smaller size particles, <0.1 m can also be removed
Low maintenance & low operating cost
Low pressure drop
Can handle large volume of air
Can handle air having high temperature up to 800 C
Treatment is continuous
Time taken for treatment is less
Disadvantages of ESP:
High initial cost
Sensitive to variable dust load and flow rate.
High initial installation cost.
High voltage requires personnel safety for the unit operator.
Efficiency decreases with time.
Require huge space.
It is effective only for particulates separation and the gases cant be removed by ESP.
Page 20 of 30

Indian coal has high ash content with low sulphur content; to improve conductivity SO
2
is
injected.
High electrical resistance of fly ash by Indian coal makes it less efficient.

FLY ASH RESISTIVITY IN ESP
(Fly ash: Fly ash is the particulate matter carried in the flue gases from furnaces burning fossil fuels.)
ESPs are often used to collect fly ash. The strongest force holding fly ash to the collection plate
is the electrostatic force caused by the flow of current through the fly ash. The fly ash acts as a
resistor to resist the flow of current through it. If the resistivity is too high there is an insulating
effect and thus the collection efficiency decreases. The presence of SO
2
in the gas stream reduces
the resistivity of the fly ash. This improves particle collection efficiency. However, to limit the
SO
2
emission in the flue gases coal having low sulphur has always been a choice. Thus for
improving the collection efficiency SO
2
is injected in the ESP.

ESP Efficiency proposed by Deustch
= 1 e [- ( A. w ) / Q ] - Equation ( ESP -1)
Where, = Collection efficiency
A = collection area of plates, m
2

w = migration velocity of particles, m/s
Q = air flow rate, m
3
/s
Thus, w = - Q / A ln (1- )
A = - Q / A ln (1 - )

The migration velocity of the particles (w), is a function of the electrostatic force. Which is
defined by the following equation:
w = q E
p
C / 3 d
p

Where, q = charge in Coulomb
E
p
= collection field intensity, volts/m


d
p
= diameter of the particle, m
= dynamic viscosity of the air, Pa.s
C = Cunningham correction factor.

Q. Determine the collection efficiency of the ESP having length 6.10 m, Height 7.32 m, number
of passages = 5, for the particles having a drift velocity of 0.184 m/s. Given gas flow rate = 19.73
m
3
/s.
Solution: Area of single plate = 7.32 x 6.10 m
2
= 44.65 m
2

Five passages means four plates, each plate with two surfaces so total surfaces = 8,
therefore total surface area = 8 x 44.65 = 357.2 m
2

= 1 e [- ( A. w ) / Q ]
= 1 e [ - (357.2) (0.184) / 19.73 ]
= 0.964
= 96.4 %
Q. An electrostatic precipitator with 6000 m
2
of collector plate area is 97 % efficient in treating
200 m
3
/s of flue gas from a 200 MW power plant. How large would the plate area have to be to
increase the efficiency to 98 % and 99%.
Solution: w = - Q / A ln (1- ) = - (200 m
3
/s) / (6000 m
2
) ln ( 1 0.97 )

= 0.117 m/s
Page 21 of 30


to achieve 98% efficiency, the area required, A
98

A
98
= Q / w ln ( 1 ) = - (200 m
3
/s) / (0.117 m/s) ln ( 1 0.98 )

= 6690 m
2

To achieve 99 % efficiency, the area required, A
99

A
99
= Q / w ln ( 1 ) = - (200 m
3
/s) / (0.117 m/s) ln ( 1 0.99 )
= 7880 m
2


Thus we can see, if = 97 % has area of plates 6000 m
2
, the area required to increase efficiency
to 98 %, area = 6690 m
2
, for 99%, area = 7880 m
2
(i.e. 6690 + 1190, for 1 % increase it required
1190 m
2
).
These calculations suggest, the additional percent efficiency enhancement demands
greater area.



Q. A plate type electrostatic precipitator for use in a cement plant for removing dust particles
consists of 10 equal channels. The spacing between the plates is 0.15 m, and the plates are 2 m
high and 2 m long. The unit handles 10,000 m3/hr of gas. What is the efficiency of collection?
What should be the length of plates for achieving 99% collection efficiency if other conditions
are same. For cement plants generally value of w i.e. particle migration velocity consider 0.10
m/s.

SCRUBBERS OR WET COLLECTORS
It is based on the principle of Henrys law and Brownian diffusion. Molar fraction of the gas
dissolved in liquid is directly proportional to the partial pressure of gas in the air. The different
stages which help in scrubbing the gases involve impingement, interception, Diffusion and
Condensation. These are devices which utilize a liquid to assist in removal of particulates from
the carrier gas stream. Generally, water is used as the scrubbing liquid. In a wet collector, the
dust is agglomerated with water and then separated from the gas together with water.

Impingement: When gas containing dust is swept through an area containing liquid droplets, dust
particles will impinge upon the droplets and if they adhere they will be collected by them. In
general, the efficiency of collection is more when the liquid droplet is approximately 100 to 300
times the size of the dust particle, in order to increase the number of inelastic collision.

Interception: Particles that move with gas stream may not impinge on the droplets but can be
captured because they push against the droplet and adhere there. This is known as interception.

Diffusion: Diffusion of the gases into the liquid medium is proportional to their partial pressure.

Condensation: Condensation of the liquid medium vapours on the particulates increases the size
and weight of particles. Consequently, it helps in the easy removal of particulates.

The overall efficiency of a scrubber is however dependent to a great extent upon impingement
and diffusion process.

Flue gas is made to push up against down falling water current. The particulate matter and gases
mixes up with the water droplets and thus is separated from the flue gases. The particulate
Page 22 of 30

matters and gases dissolved in the water are further treated before finally discharging out from
the industry.

Types of Scrubbers:
1. Spray towers
2. Venturi scrubbers
3. Cyclone scrubbers
4. Packed scrubbers
5. Mechanical scrubbers

Spray Towers: It is the simplest type of gas scrubber. It can be either round or rectangular. Gas
is passed against the direction of falling drops of liquid usually water from a top spray nozzles.
Units of this type are used to remove generally coarse dusts having dia in range of > 1 to 2 m
where high efficiency is not required. It helps in removing fly ash.

Venturi Scrubbers: It is a high energy wet scrubber with good efficiency. In this the particulate
laden stream is directed through a venturi tube at throat velocity of 60 to 100 m/sec. Water
sprays are introduced just ahead of the venturi throat. The faster the gas passes through the
venturi, the higher is the efficiency. The dust laden flue gas enters the scrubber and is accelerated
to a high velocity while passing through the converging section and approaching the throat
section. The velocity of the flue gas is the maximum at and in the throat section of the scrubber.
Venturies are the most frequently used scrubbers. They are used generally for small gas rates that
contain predominantly small size particles. It is also suited for variable and intermittent gas
flows. Venturi scrubber among the other wet scrubbers has comparatively greater cleaning
efficiency.

Advantages of Scrubbers:
Low initial cost
Moderately high collection efficiency for smaller size particles
Can be used for treating high temperature exhaust gases
It removes both particulates as well as gaseous matters
There is no particle re-entrainment and plugging problem

Disadvantages of Scrubbers:
High power consumption for achieving higher efficiency
Corrosion and abrasion problem of inner walls
Waste water generated requires its treatment before being finally discharged


Venturi Scrubber



Schematic di

Page 23 of 30


iagram of spray tower
Page 24 of 30

AIR POLLUTION ABATEMENT TECHNOLOGIES

Long range strategy for air pollution control involves control of pollutants at their sources in
following ways:
1) Use devices to remove all or parts of the pollutant from the gases discharged to atmosphere.
2) Change the raw material in pollution producing processes.
3) Change the operation of process so as to decrease the pollutant emitted.
1. Applicable to all emissions
A. Decrease or eliminate production of emissions
Change specification of process
Change design of product
Change process temperature, pressure, or cycle
Change specification of material
Change the product
B. Confine the emissions
Enclose the source of emissions
Capture the emission in industrial exhaust scheme
Prevent drafts
C. Separate the contaminant from effluent gas scheme
Scrub with liquid

2. Applicable specifically to gaseous emissions
A. Decrease or eliminate gas or vapor production
Change the process
Change from liquid or gaseous to solid material
Changes to process that does not require gaseous or liquid material
B. Burn the contaminant to CO2 and H2O
Incinerator
Catalytic burners
C. Adsorb the contaminant
Activated carbon

3. Applicable specifically to particulate matter
A. Decrease or eliminate particulate matter production
Change process
Change from solid to gaseous material
Change dry to wet solid material
Change particle size of solid material
Changes to process that does not require particulate material
B. Separate the contaminant from effluent gas stream
Gravity separator
Centrifugal separators
Filters
Electrostatic precipitator


Page 25 of 30

Alternate control strategies involve in the form of:
1. Stringent pollution prevention acts and rules
2. Effective implementation of the pollution prevention laws by regular inspection and
monitoring by pollution control authority
3. Taxes and polluters to pay policy
4. Subsidies for industries which uses pollution control devices
5. Fines to polluting industries, etc.

The other measures for pollution prevention include:
1. Dispersion/dilution: By winds, through long chimneys (stacks)
2. Proper site selection for the industrial establishments.
3. Natural settling of the particles: Generally for particle > 20 m dia.
4. Absorption: The gaseous as well as particulate pollutants from the air get collected in the
rain or mist, and may settle out with that moisture. This phenomenon takes place below
the cloud level. When falling raindrops absorb pollutants it is also known as washout or
scavenging. The process however is not effective for particles having dia < 1 m.
5. Rainout: Process involving precipitation above the cloud level, where submicron particles
present in the atmosphere in the clouds, serve as condensation nuclei, around which drops
of water may form, and fall out as raindrops. This phenomenon helps in increased rainfall
and fog formation in urban areas.
6. Adsorption: On natural surfaces, such as soils, rocks, leaves, grass, buildings and other
surfaces.
7. Controlling pollution at the source through PCD- Pollution Control Devices.
8. Technology improvement: Eco-friendly technologies.
9. Alternative fuel uses, substitution of fossil fuels by alternative sources of energy, etc.
CONTROLLING VEHICULAR EMISSIONS
Main contribution: Carbon Monoxide CO, Hydrocarbons HC, Nitrogen Oxides NOx .
An ideal IC Engine (Internal Combustion Engine) burns the fuel completely to CO
2
,
water and Nitrogen, if the Stoichiometric mixture of Air and Fuel is 14.7.
Air / Fuel ratio = 14.7, means 14.7 parts air and one part of fuel (petrol/diesel).
Vehicles having petrol engines during acceleration, high speed, at start, idling have high
fuel content mixture also called Rich mixture, which encourages production of CO,
unburnt HC since there is not enough oxygen for complete combustion.
Lean mixture: where the air provided is more than the required.
Since Diesel engines run with very lean mixtures, emission of HC and CO is inherently
very low. However, because high compression ratios create high temperature, therefore,
NOx emissions are relatively high.
Use of cleaner fuel with less lead and sulphur content minimizes the pollution.
Use of catalytic convertor: made of metals like platinum, palladium etc. which helps in
oxidising CO & HC into their final end product of CO
2
and also helps to reduce NO into
Nitrogen. These noble metals are highly active and resist sulphur poisoning.
Proper tuning of engine and carburetor prevents vehicular pollution.

Page 26 of 30

Emissions from gasoline powered vehicles are generally classified as:
A. Exhaust emission
B. Crank case emission
C. Evaporative emissions

A. Exhaust Emission: These are the emissions after burning of the fuel which is emitted as
exhaust. The important exhaust emissions from a gasoline engine are carbon monoxide,
unburnt hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and particulates. These emissions vary with air-fuel
ratio, spark timing and engine operating conditions.
B. Crank Case Emission: It consists of engine blowby which leaks past the piston mainly
during the compression stroke, and of oil vapours generated into the crank-case. The quality
of blowby depends on engine design and operating conditions. Worn out piston rings and
cylinder liner may greatly increase blowby. About 20 o 40% of the cars total hydrocarbon
emissions are sent into the atmosphere from the crankcase. These emissions are called
crankcase blowby. All vehicles now are required to have Positive Crankcase Ventilation
(PCV) valve to eliminate blowby emission.
C. Evaporative Emission: This includes evaporation from Fuel tank and Carburetor.
Evaporation of volatile hydrocarbons from the fuel tank is controlled by placing an activated
charcoal adsorber in the tank vent line. Thus, as the gasoline expands during warm weather
and forces vapour out of vent where the HC is trapped on the activated carbon.
During engine operation, the HC vapours generated in the carburetor are vented
internally to the engine intake system. After the engine is shut off, the gasoline in the float
bowl continues to evaporate because of the high temperature in the engine compartment. This
phenomenon is called Hot Soak. These losses may be controlled by the use of an activated
carbon adsorption system called Canister or by venting the vapours to the crankcase. The
modern fuel injection systems do not have carburetors and thus avoid evaporation losses.

Exhaust Treatment Devices: The basic technique is to promote oxidation of HC and CO after
emission from the engine. Exhaust gases are either treated by introducing additional air supply
and by providing sufficient volume to ensure adequate reaction time OR by use of catalytic
converters.
Exhaust Gas Recycling (EGR) System: The exhaust recirculation systems utilize up to 15% of
the exhaust stream to recycle into the intake manifold with the fresh air-fuel mixture. The
exhaust gas dilutes the fresh charge and thus lowers the flame temperature and consequently the
nitrogen oxides. The fuel-air equivalence ratio has a marked influence on the effectiveness of
exhaust recycling. The exhaust gas recycling reduces volumetric efficiency and hence maximum
power output available from an engine of given size. It also adversely affects the vehicle
drivability.

Four strokes in an ignition engine are:
1. Fuel intake stroke
2. Compression stroke
3. Power stroke, and
4. Exhaust stroke

Page 27 of 30

Flash Point: The flash point is defined as the minimum temperature at which the given oil
evolves just sufficient vapour to form inflammable mixture with air.

Fire Point: it is the minimum temperature at which the oil vapours will continue to burn instead
of just flashing. For the same product the fire point is higher than the flash point.

Smoke Point: It is the maximum flame height in millimeters to which a kerosene will burn
without smoking in a standard apparatus. Good quality kerosene shows smoke point of 20 to 25
mm.

Octane number: Maximum power is derived from gasoline when it burns silently and relatively
slowly. Under certain engine conditions the combustion may begin smoothly and then the whole
of the unburnt fuel may burn rapidly with the formation of pressure waves. This leads to
knocking of the gasoline engine. Much of the generated power is wasted and the engine life is
shortened when knocking occurs. A good gasoline should resist knocking. The anti-knock
quality of fuel is measured in a standard engine in terms of the relative performance of two
standard fuels and then expressed as its octane number. By definition, the octane number of a
gasoline is equal to the percentage by volume of iso-octane (2,2,4-trimethyl pentane) in a
mixture of n-Heptane and iso-octane having the same knocking tendency as the sample being
tested. n-Heptane is of poor anti-knock quality and is assigned zero octane number. On the other
hand iso-octane has excellent anti-knock quality and is assigned an octane number of 100. If a
gasoline matches with a 80/20 blend of iso-octane and n-Heptane, its octane number is 80.
The octane rating of commercial gasoline is not entirely due to the hydrocarbons only.
Certain additives are put into the gasoline to raise its octane number. The most effective and
common additive is Tetra Ethyl Led (TEL). Other anti-knock agents are Tetra Methyl Lead
(TML).

Cetane number: There is a time lag i.e. delay period between the injection of diesel fuel into hot
compressed air and its ignition. If the delay period is unduly large there will be accumulation of
too much fuel in the cylinder, which will eventually burn with an undue rapidity. A very rapid
rise in the cylinder pressure will follow and cause a diesel knock. The ignition quality of diesel
fuel is measured in a standard engine by matching against blends of two reference fuels and
expressed in terms of Cetane number. A n-paraffin (n-hexadecane or Cetane, C
16
H
34
) is given
100 cetane number and an aromatic (-methyl naphthalene) is given zero cetane number. If the
given fuel matches with a 40/60 blend of cetane and -methyl naphthalene it is assigned a cetane
number of 40. High speed engines above 1500 rpm need high cetane number - 45 to 50 fuels. A
low speed engine is not so demanding since there is more time available for the combustion. A
cetane number of 25 to 30 is sufficient for low speed engines.


Page 28 of 30

EXERCISE
Q. Draw a schematic diagram of gravity settling chamber having five numbers of trays. Also
show the direction of the entrance of dirty gas and exit of clean gas from the chamber.

Q. Using the cyclone of standard settling proportions with diameter 2.0 m and following
relationships: b = D/4, H = 0.5 D, L
b
= 2D. Find
(i) Number of turns in the cyclone
(ii) Cutsize diameter of the particle, (Given, Viscosity of air = 1.55 x 10
-5
m
2
/s, density of
particle = 3000 kg/m
3
, Flow of air = 1.0 m
3
/s)

Q. Calculate the number of cyclones required to treat a flow of 60 m
3
/sec with an inlet velocity
of 15 m/sec. The diameter of cyclone is 1.8 m. (Ans: 10 cyclones)

Q. What is re-entrainment problem in air pollution control? How this problem is caused in
gravity settling chamber & cyclone? Suggest the remedial measures.

Q. Justify the following statements:
(i) The laminar flow based settling chamber provides a very awkward design of chamber.
(ii) Cyclone of small diameter can achieve better collection efficiency associated with some
inherent operation & technical problems.
(iii) Cyclones as compared to gravity settlers are more effective in removing the smaller size
particles.

Q. Write down two basic assumptions in the derivation of collection efficiency of turbulent
based settling chambers.

Q. A settling chamber is 3 m wide, 10 m long and has 10 trays, including the bottom surface.
The tray spacing is 15 cm from centre to centre. At what interval will it be necessary to clean
the trays of the chamber if maximum allowable dust thickness is to be 3 cm. Assume that
mass-concentration of 0.35 kg/m
3
and overall collection efficiency of 0.95. A stream of 1.5
m
3
/s of standard air containing particles of specific gravity of 1.5 flows through settling
chamber.

Q. An air stream with flow rate of 7.0 m
3
/s is passed through a cyclone of standard proportions.
Determine the removal efficiency for particles with density of 1.5 gm/cm
3
with diameters of
5 m and 25 m for the given parameters:
(i) Gas inlet width = 0.5 m
(ii) Gas inlet height = 1.0 m
(iii) No. of turns = 5
(iv) Viscosity of air = 2.07 x 10
-5
kg/m.s

Q. The diameter, number of turns and inlet gas velocity cant be varied too much to achieve
higher cyclone efficiency. Justify with explanation.

Q. Explain Air-Cloth-Ratio. What is fabric blind and how is it prevented?

Page 29 of 30

Q. A filter is to be designed to treat 25 m
3
/s of standard air with Cmv = 0.008 kg/m
3
. For this
dust and for the type of filter proposed, it has been found that K
1
= 40,000 N.s/m
3
and K
2
=
65,000 s
-1
. For filtering velocity of 1.0 cm/s, find
(i) How much surface area of filter is required?
(ii) What is pressure drop through the filter immediately after cleaning?
(iii) After what period of time must cleaning occur, if the filter must be cleaned when P =
2000 N/m
2
.
(iv) Find the number of bags required, if each bag is 30 cm diameter and 4 m length.

Q. What are advantages of using pulse jet bag filters?

Q. A filter has 1000 m
2
of surface area and treats 10 m
3
/s of air carrying dust with a
concentration C
mv
equal to 0.008 kg/m
3
. Assume K
1
= 30,000 N.S/m
3
and K
2
= 40,000 s
-1
. If
the filter must be cleaned when P = 2000 N/m
2
, after what period of time must cleaning
occur? Also find the number of bags required, if each bag is 30 cm diameter and 4 meter
long. Also compute the power requirement to overcome the pressure drop.

Q. Design a parallel type electrostatic precipitator with 10 channels to handle 10,000 m3/hr of
gas for efficiency of 90% and 99% respectively. Assume velocity of gas entering the plates to
be kept as 0.1 m/sec, spacing between plates be 0.15 m and height of each plate as 2m.

Q. What is bag house? Describe the working principal of a bag house with the advantages and
disadvantages of using it. A dusty gas from a fertilizer plant is flowing at the rate of 15
m
3
/sec at 400
o
C. What type of cloth do you recommend? If the design filtering velocity must
be limited to 0.01 m/sec, what is the cloth area needed?

Q. What is Cyclone dust separator? Show the proportions of a standard cyclone with schematic
diagramme. Define its working principle with advantages and disadvantages of using it. For
which types of Industries you will recommend Cyclone separators?

Q. Write notes on:
(i) Design parameters of cyclones
(ii) Ethanol as bio-fuel
(iii) Transesterification
(iv) PCV system in vehicles
(v) Fuel Injection system
(vi) Henrys law
(vii) EGR system
(viii) Filtering velocity of a fabric filter

Q. Write a detail note one Electrostatic precipitator, including diagrams.

Q. What is stokes law? On its basis derive the formula used to find out the settling velocity and
diameter of a particle to be separated in a separating device?

Page 30 of 30

Q. Write in detail about fuel cells, its advantages. What are fuel reformers?

Q. Describe various types of scrubbers and their advantages?

Q. Explain Biofuels with emphasis on Ethanol and Biodiesel and their manufacturing processes.

Q. Describe two and four stroke engines? Why two stroke engines pollute more than four stroke
engines?

Q. In a scrubber, stream no. 1 is the recirculation liquid flow stream back to the scrubber and it
is 30 gallons/minute (gpm). Liquid being withdrawn for treatment and disposal (stream 4)
from the recirculation tank is 12 gpm. Assume that inlet gas stream (stream2) is completely
dry and that the outlet stream (stream 6) has 3.20 gpm of moisture evaporated in the
scrubber. Stream 3 is also the outlet from the scrubber which is being added into recirculation
tank but how much stream 3 is added to recirculation tank is not known. The water being
added to the scrubber through recirculation tank is through stream no. 5. On the basis of mass
balance, make the diagram of the process and find out the amount of water continually added
to the wet scrubber through stream no. 5 in order to keep the unit running?


References:
1. Bela G. Liptak, Environmental Engineers handbook, Air Pollution, Volume 2, Chilton Book Company,
Pennsylvania, 1974.
2. C.S. Rao, Environmental Pollution Control Engineering, Wiley Eastern Limited, New Delhi, 1991.
3. M N Rao, and H V N Rao, Air Pollution, TMH Publishing Co. Ltd., New Delhi, 1989.
4. Mackenzie L. Davis, and David A. Cornwell, Introduction to Environmental Engineering, McGraw-Hill
International Edition, Singapore, 1998.
5. Martin Crawford, Air Pollution Control Theory, Tata McGraw Hill Edition, New Delhi, 1976.
6. Samir Sarkar, Fuels and Combustion, Orient Longman, Mumbai, 1990.