A packed horizontal wet scrubber is an air pollution control device that uses liquids to remove particulate matter and gases from industrial exhaust streams. It is a wet scrubber that uses a packed bed of material to increase the contact surface area between the gas and liquid phases. This results in more efficient removal of pollutants and a higher level of air quality control.

Design and Components of Packed Horizontal Wet Scrubber:

The design of a packed horizontal wet scrubber consists of several key components. The first is a packed bed, which is usually made of a corrosion-resistant material such as plastic or ceramic. The bed is filled with small packing materials, such as Raschig rings, faceted spheres, or Berl saddles, which increase the surface area available for contact between the gas and liquid phases. As the gas stream flows through the bed, the liquid is sprayed onto the packing, which traps particulate matter and absorbs gas phase pollutants.

The liquid used in filling a horizontal wet scrubber can vary depending on the specific application, but is usually water-based. The liquid is stored in tanks and pumped through a dispensing system that distributes the liquid evenly over the packaging material. The liquid is then collected at the bottom of the scrubber before being recycled or disposed of.

The exhaust gas stream is introduced into the scrubber at the inlet, usually at the bottom of the bed. The gas then flows through the bed and particulate matter and gas phase contaminants are removed by the packing and liquid. The gas leaves the scrubber at the top and is usually released to the atmosphere or processed further before release.

Advantages of Packed Horizontal Wet Scrubbers:

One of the main advantages of packed horizontal wet scrubbers is their high efficiency in removing pollutants. Packed beds provide a large surface area for contact between the gas and liquid phases, resulting in better mass transfer and more efficient contaminant removal. In addition, the liquid used in the scrubber acts as a heat sink, helping to reduce the temperature of the exhaust gas stream, thereby reducing the risk of thermal damage to downstream equipment.

Another advantage of packed horizontal wet scrubbers is their compact design. The horizontal orientation of the scrubber allows for a smaller footprint, making it ideal for installations where space is limited. Additionally, the use of plastic or ceramic packaging means the scrubbers are corrosion resistant, resulting in longer life and lower maintenance costs.

Application of Packed Horizontal Wet Scrubber:

Packed horizontal wet scrubbers are used in a variety of industries where air pollution control is required. They are commonly used in the chemical, pharmaceutical and petrochemical industries to control emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful air pollutants. They are also used in the food and beverage industry to remove odors and other contaminants from cooking and processing operations.

In the mining and metal processing industries, packed horizontal wet scrubbers are used to remove particulate matter and other contaminants from exhaust streams from smelting, roasting and other high temperature operations. They are also used in the pulp and paper industry to control emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and other gases produced during production.

Packed Horizontal Wet Scrubber Maintenance and Operation：

Maintenance of a filled horizontal wet scrubber is relatively simple, but it is important to follow proper procedures to ensure optimum performance. Packaging materials should be inspected regularly for signs of degradation or encrustation, and any damaged or clogged packaging should be replaced. The liquid distribution system should also be checked and cleaned periodically to ensure that the liquid is evenly distributed on the packaging material.

Fluids used in scrubbers should be monitored and treated as necessary to maintain their effectiveness. This may include pH adjustment, chemical treatment, or filtration to remove impurities. The fluid should also be changed periodically to prevent the buildup of contaminants that can reduce the efficiency of the scrubber.