ABSTRACT

Electrostatic precipitation uses the forces of an electric field on electrically charged particles to separate solid or liquid aerosols from a gas stream. The aerosol is deliberately charged and passed through an electric field causing the particles to migrate toward an oppositely charged electrode which acts as a collection surface. Electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) are characterized by high efficiencies, even for small particles. They can handle large gas volumes with low pressure drops and can be designed for a range of temperatures. Commercial ESPs accomplish charging using a high-voltage, direct-current corona surrounding a highly charged electrode, such as a wire. If different sets of electrodes are used for charging and collecting, the precipitator is called a two-stage precipitator. Two-stage ESPs are used in air conditioning applications, while single-stage ESPs are used in industrial applications where dust loadings are higher and space is available.