Question

How does an electrostatic precipitator work?

Answer 1

ELECTROSTATIC PRECIPITATOR FUNCTIONS:

1. Electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) are very efficient and versatile.
2. It is an electrical device to remove particulate matter present in the exhaust of thermal power plant.
3. They work on the basis of electrostatic attraction.
4. An ESP consists of a thick cylinder fitted with an inlet at the bottom and an outlet at the top.
5. ESP has electrode wires and a stage of collecting plates.
6. The electrode wires fitted at the centre of the cylinder is connected to a high voltage cable, which release electrons.
7. These electrons get attached to the dust particles and impart a negative charge to them within a very small fraction of a second.
8. As the dust laden air passes through the ESP, larger sized particles settle down due to gravity.
9. The smaller charged particles are attached to the oppositely charged electrodes which gradually fall down to the bottom and finally dust-free air comes out.
10. ESP can remove particles in the size range of 5-20 mm.