Air Pollution Control
Mechanisms
for filtration
Feature Cyclone Separator Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP) Bag Filter
Utilizes centrifugal force to separate particulate
Uses high-voltage electrostatic charge to Captures particulate matter by passing gas through
Working Principle matter from the gas stream based on particle
ionize and capture dust particles on plates. filter bags made of fabric.
density and size.
Particle Removal Moderate (80-90% for large particles); lower for fine High efficiency (up to 99%) for both large and Very high efficiency (up to 99.9%) for both fine and
Efficiency particles. fine particles. large particles.
Suitable Particle Size Large particles (>5 µm). Can handle both fine and large particles. Can handle both fine and large particles effectively.
Low pressure drop due to open spaces High pressure drop due to the dense nature of filter
Pressure Drop Low to moderate.
between plates. bags.
Low; no moving parts, but efficiency may reduce Medium; requires periodic cleaning of plates High; regular replacement or cleaning of filter bags
Maintenance
over time as wear occurs. (manual or automated). needed.
High initial cost due to complex system and
Cost Low initial cost Medium initial cost
electrical components.
Widely used in industries with strict emission
Pre-cleaner for high-density particles, typically in Used in power plants, cement industries, and
Applications standards, such as pharmaceuticals and food
industries like cement, sawmills. steel plants for capturing fine particles.
processing.
Operating Lower temperature range (generally up to 250°C,
High (up to 400°C or more). Moderate (up to 300°C, depending on design).
Temperature depending on fabric material).
Requires relatively more space compared to ESP Requires more space compared to bag filters Compact design, requires less space compared to
Space Requirement
and bag filters. but less than cyclone separators. ESP and cyclone separators.
Low to moderate (depends on particle size being High due to the need for high-voltage Moderate due to the fan power needed to overcome
Energy Consumption
separated). equipment. pressure drop.
Removal of SO2 : Limestone
• 𝐶𝑎𝐶𝑂3 𝑠 + 𝑆𝑂2 → 𝐶𝑎𝑆𝑂3 𝑠 + 𝐶𝑂2
Flue Gas Lime
Desulfurization • 𝐶𝑎(𝑂𝐻)2 𝑠 + 𝑆𝑂2 → 𝐶𝑎𝑆𝑂3 𝑠 + 𝐻2 𝑂 𝑙
(FGD) 1
• 𝐶𝑎𝑆𝑂3 𝑠 + 𝑂2 + 2𝐻2 𝑂 𝑙 → CaS𝑂4 . 2𝐻2 𝑂 𝑠
2