Electrical characteristics of pilot scale electrostatic precipitators

Simple mathematical equations are used to model the main electrical characteristics of the pilot scale electrostatic precipitator. Clean vol tage-current density characteristics give corona onset voltage values which are in agreement with Poisson's equation, and also current density at breakdown which is used to calculate terminal voltage at various dust in situ resistivity levels. The mathematical equations are then used to construct the electrical performance diagram which is used to determine precipitated ash characteristics . The electrical performance diagram is then extended to cover the temperature range 100 - AOO'C. Peek's and Laplace's equations are used to determine discharge electrode roughness factor and air mobility. The effective mechanisms of flue gas additives ammonia, sulphur trioxide, and triethyl amine and their effect on dust resistivity are discussed. An electrical performance diagram is constructed for these three additives. Instantaneous current arriving at the collecting electrode was examined by installing a small insulated plate inside the precipitator and connecting it to a cathode ray osci11iscope. The effect of back corona and triethyl amine additive on the current was determined.