ABSTRACT
The infrared carbon regeneration process is a comparatively new development in the general area of thermal regeneration of granular activated carbon. This process utilizes the traditional steps of thermal regeneration, but is unique in terms of the close control over process conditions which it provides. The ability to control the listed process parameters gives the infrared furnace a distinct advantage over the other thermal regeneration alternatives. Losses in the infrared furnace are inherently lower than those of other direct fired thermal regeneration systems because of the almost complete absence of oxygen in the furnace environment. The infrared heating elements are typically silicon carbide resistance units. These elements are energized electrically and radiate the bulk of the dissipated energy in the infrared spectrum. In terms of capital cost, site-specific conditions often dominate and it can only be stated that the infrared furnace is generally less expensive than the other thermal regeneration alternatives.
