What is the carbon loading height for an activated carbon absorber for low-flow organic substances?
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For the exhaust gas coming out of our atmospheric distillation tower and having been cooled by a chilled water cooler, environmental regulations require the installation of an activated carbon adsorber to absorb the small amounts of organic gases present in that exhaust gas. What is an appropriate height for filling the activated carbon in such an adsorber? As long as it meets the required standards is sufficient; however, if the height is too great, there is a risk of excessive pressure drop, which could affect the pressure control in the distillation tower. Please help and offer some guidance. Thank you!
For active adsorption in exhaust gas treatment, there is no need to worry about pressure issues; after the exhaust gas has been treated, it can be discharged directly. Activated carbon with a larger diameter and higher flow rate can be used – for example, that which is fluffy in structure – as this type poses almost no pressure problems.
I guess the person who posted this is considering that if there is significant resistance, a compressor would need to be added at the outlet of the distillation tower. I’m not very familiar with this aspect; it’s likely necessary to consider the emission standards. Simply reducing the height of the activated carbon filter won’t suffice if those standards cannot be met. Additionally, the process of using activated carbon to absorb organic substances is exothermic, so safety precautions must be taken; it might be advisable to install temperature alarm devices if necessary.