Mechanics behind an electrostatic precipitator

In summary, an electrostatic precipitator uses a row of thin wires and a stack of large flat metal plates oriented vertically. A negative voltage is applied between the wire and the plate, and if the applied voltage is high enough an electric (corona) discharge ionizes the gas around the electrodes. The ionized particles, following the negative electric field created by the power supply, move to the grounded plates. The particles build up on the collection plates and form a layer. The layer does not collapse, thanks to electrostatic pressure (given from layer resistivity, electric field, and current flowing in the collected layer).
  • #1
sgstudent
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I understand that there are many different kinds of electrostatic precipiators but I'm referring to the type where a negatively charged wires are placed in between two grounded plate. This essentially makes it a positive plate. So when the smoke rises up they are ionized and thus the ions are attracted to their respective plates/rods. However, the part I'm confused about is whether they are able to accept electrons or give them up when they reach the plate/wires. Meaning do the electrons from the negatively charged wires get given up to the ions and they form molecules again while for the grounded plates do electrons flow into the plate and get grounded and form molecules too? Thanks for the help! :smile:
 
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  • #2
Also for other electrostatic precipitators they say that when the dust pass through the negative wires they gain a negative charge. How does this happen? Thanks for the help guys!
 
  • #3
"The most basic precipitator contains a row of thin vertical wires, and followed by a stack of large flat metal plates oriented vertically, with the plates typically spaced about 1 cm to 18 cm apart, depending on the application. The air or gas stream flows horizontally through the spaces between the wires, and then passes through the stack of plates.

A negative voltage of several thousand volts is applied between wire and plate. If the applied voltage is high enough an electric (corona) discharge ionizes the gas around the electrodes. Negative ions flow to the plates and charge the gas-flow particles.
The ionized particles, following the negative electric field created by the power supply, move to the grounded plates.

Particles build up on the collection plates and form a layer. The layer does not collapse, thanks to electrostatic pressure (given from layer resistivity, electric field, and current flowing in the collected layer)."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrostatic_precipitator

For an excellent technical paper with all the mathematics describing the process in pdf format: www.unc.edu/courses/2009spring/envr/754/001/ESPs.pdf
 
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  • #4
But do electrons flow from/to the ions that are stuck on it? Thanks for the help!
 
  • #5


The mechanics behind an electrostatic precipitator involve the use of electric fields to remove particles from a gas stream. In the type of precipitator described, the negatively charged wires act as a negatively charged electrode, while the grounded plates act as positive electrodes. As the gas stream passes through the precipitator, the particles become ionized due to the electric field and are attracted to the positively charged plates. This process is known as electrostatic attraction.

The ions in the gas stream can either gain or lose electrons depending on their charge. If they have a positive charge, they will gain electrons from the negatively charged wires, causing them to become neutral molecules again. If they have a negative charge, they will lose electrons to the positively charged plates, also becoming neutral molecules.

In summary, the electrons do not flow into the plates, but rather are transferred between the ions and the electrodes. This process allows for the collection of particles on the plates, which can then be removed from the precipitator. I hope this helps to clarify the mechanics behind an electrostatic precipitator.
 

1. What is an electrostatic precipitator?

An electrostatic precipitator is a device used to remove particulate matter from industrial exhaust gases. It uses electrical forces to attract and collect particles onto charged plates or wires.

2. How does an electrostatic precipitator work?

An electrostatic precipitator works by creating a strong electric field between a negatively charged electrode and a positively charged electrode. As the exhaust gas passes through this field, the particles become charged and are attracted to the oppositely charged plates or wires, where they are collected and removed.

3. What are the benefits of using an electrostatic precipitator?

An electrostatic precipitator is highly efficient in removing particles from exhaust gases, with an efficiency of up to 99%. It also has a low operating cost, requires minimal maintenance, and does not produce any additional waste products.

4. What types of industries use electrostatic precipitators?

Electrostatic precipitators are commonly used in industries such as power plants, cement plants, steel mills, chemical plants, and incinerators. They are also used in a variety of other applications, including air pollution control for commercial and residential buildings.

5. Are there any limitations to using an electrostatic precipitator?

While electrostatic precipitators are effective in removing particulate matter, they may not be as effective in removing gases or odors. They also require a high initial investment and may not be suitable for smaller-scale operations.

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