Scrubbers are devices used in industrial settings to control air pollution by “scrubbing” the industrial exhaust clear from a full, diverse variety of harmful particulates and gases. The specific contaminant to be eliminated will depend on the nature and needs of the particular industry. Scrubbers can operate in one of several ways, with the most common scrubbing mechanism being wet scrubbing, or washing contaminants out of a gas stream with liquid. Other types of scrubbers may use dry reagents to eliminate unwanted substances. A fully functional scrubber system is vital to the efficient operation of any industry that uses it. While careful maintenance goes a long way towards keeping scrubbers in good order, sometimes replacement is necessary. The following are a few different scenarios that could indicate it is time to upgrade your industrial scrubber.
Scrubber Malfunction
When a scrubber begins malfunctioning or performing at less than full capacity, it is important to recognize situations when repairs will not help and the system must be replaced. Common problems with scrubbers include buildup from the chemicals they absorb, as well as harmful bacteria proliferation in poorly maintained wet scrubbers. Wear and tear also take their toll, resulting in decreased efficiency. Action should be taken as soon as a problem is noticed, since a faulty scrubber can result in the release of hazardous chemicals or bacteria that could pose a health and safety risk or cause the facility to not meet emissions regulations.
Improved Technology
Another reason to replace a scrubber is the availability of new, better systems. If the scrubber has been operating for many years, it may be time to consider looking into more current devices. Technology today continues to improve and develop at a fantastic pace. Installing a new, updated system can often increase scrubbing efficiency dramatically.
New Emissions Guidelines
In response to continually developing research, emissions guidelines for a given industry can change over time. Older scrubbers may not be up to the task of complying with changed or stricter guidelines. It may be necessary to install an entirely new system to be fully in compliance. Typically, companies are given timelines to bring their systems into compliance and failing to do so by the set deadline can result in massive fines and other penalties.
Changes in Industrial Processes
As scientific research advances, industrial processes may change as well, incorporating new techniques, equipment, and materials. As a result, an industry may find itself dealing with different types of pollutants that were not previously present. Thus, an older scrubbing system may become obsolete, since it was not designed to eliminate these new substances. In these circumstances, a new scrubber should be acquired as soon as possible so that the new processes can continue to be implemented.
The time to replace your scrubber is as soon as you become aware that it is no longer doing its job of eliminating pollutants that result from industrial processes. Sometimes this happens due to breakage or wear and tear. Other reasons a replacement may be necessary stem from changes in circumstances: new emissions guidelines, new polluting substances or new advances in scrubbing technology can lead you to conclude that your existing scrubber is no longer doing the best job possible. It is highly important to act in a timely manner to perform all necessary replacements, since failure to do so can result in severe health risks. STI Group helps clients upgrade, repair, or maintain their industrial scrubbers as needed.
