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How It Works
An electrostatic precipitator (ESP) charges airborne particles with a high-voltage electrode, then collects them on grounded plates. The Deutsch-Anderson equation predicts collection efficiency based on the ratio of collecting-plate area and gas flow rate, scaled by the particle drift velocity toward the plates.
Increasing electrode area or reducing gas flow improves efficiency. Drift velocity depends on particle size, charge, and gas properties -- typical values range from 0.03 to 0.2 m/s.
Example Problem
An ESP has 5,000 m² of collecting area, handles 50 m³/s of gas, and the drift velocity is 0.05 m/s. What is the collection efficiency?
- R = 1 − e−(5000 × 0.05 / 50)
- R = 1 − e−5 = 1 − 0.0067
- R ≈ 99.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
What efficiency can an electrostatic precipitator achieve?
Modern ESPs routinely achieve 99–99.9% collection efficiency for particulate matter. Large power plants may use ESPs with collecting areas exceeding 10,000 m² to meet emissions standards.
What is drift velocity in ESP design?
Drift velocity is the speed at which charged particles migrate toward the collecting electrode. It depends on particle size, electric field strength, and gas viscosity. Common values are 0.03–0.2 m/s for fly ash applications.
How does the Deutsch-Anderson equation work?
The equation R = 1 − e−AVd/Q models collection as an exponential approach to 100%. Doubling the electrode area or halving the gas flow rate both raise the exponent, sharply increasing efficiency at high values.
Related Calculators
- Cyclone Calculator -- pre-separate coarse particles upstream of the ESP.
- Venturi Scrubber Calculator -- wet scrubbing alternative for particulate and gas removal.
- Atmospheric Dispersion Calculator -- model stack emissions after treatment.
- Trommel Screen Calculator -- size rotating screens for solid waste separation.
- Voltage Converter -- convert between volts, kilovolts, and millivolts for electrode design.