Thermal oxidizers, aka fume incinerators, represent a class of equipment that treats pollutants at high temperatures to effectively destroy them. Common types of thermal oxidizers include direct-fired oxidizers, recuperative oxidizers, and regenerative thermal oxidizers (RTOs). Each technology has strengths and weaknesses depending on the application and process conditions.
A Direct-Fired Thermal Oxidizer (DFTO) is a proven technology for VOC destruction and provides a simple means to ensure your compliance. These systems are ideal for oxidizing various pollutants.
Recuperative Thermal Oxidizer systems incorporate a heat exchanger with a combustion chamber, which preheats the incoming process gas stream. They can handle a wide range of process flow rates and VOC concentrations.
Regenerative Thermal Oxidizers (RTOs) are most appropriate in process applications with lower concentrations of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and air flows higher than 5000 SCFM.
Portable Thermal Oxidizers are a great addition to your permanent operating arsenal if your facility has frequent shutdowns or needs to address a variety of temporary requirements throughout the year. We also offer Portable Thermal Oxidizer Rentals for short, medium, and long-term use.
The type of oxidizer best suited for your application will take into consideration the energy content of gas within the process stream of concern. The chart below illustrates the operating range and desired range of energy content associated with each oxidizer technology.
In addition to the initial capital cost of a thermal oxidizer, other key considerations when choosing air pollution control technology include ongoing operating costs (i.e., utilities and maintenance expense), equipment life, and reliability. Reliability is a primary consideration for any air pollution control system since equipment downtime can lead to production decreases or compliance violations. The ease of system maintenance and operation are also important, as the focus of manufacturing is production, with air pollution control equipment being a secondary cost of doing business.
Love visuals? Our 3D model below showcases a Pollution Systems Direct-Fired Thermal Oxidizer followed by a Quench and Venturi Scrubber. Simply hover your cursor within the frame and use the mouse to rotate and zoom the 3D model. You can also click ‘fullscreen’ at the top of the frame to view it in a separate window.
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Thermal oxidation is accepted in various industries as a conventional method to reduce VOC emissions, making thermal oxidizer systems popular technologies for air pollution control. However, these systems commonly get misapplied due to each oxidizer technology’s appropriateness for specific applications and process conditions. In order to choose the proper thermal oxidizer design, Pollution Systems will review the unique process challenges at hand and determine what technology is best suited for the application.
The infographic below highlights the high-level differences between regenerative and recuperative thermal oxidation:
To find more details, visit our recuperative vs regenerative technology page.
We design each air control system with the end user’s total cost of ownership in mind. We evaluate the initial capital costs, maintenance costs, and potential downtime associated with each equipment so you receive the most cost-effective solution for your application.
If you still aren’t sure about which thermal oxidizer technology is the best fit for your application, we can help.
Already know what you need? Submit an inquiry to our sales team!
