• Subject Code: Air Pollution Control and Management ( 3161308) 
  • Date:08-06-2022
  • Paper solved by Om sonawane 

Q.1 

(a) Write a short note on Turbo jet Engine.

A turbojet engine is a type of internal combustion engine that uses a turbine to compress air before it enters the combustion chamber. This compressed air is then mixed with fuel and ignited, creating a high-speed jet of hot gases that propels the aircraft forward. Turbojet engines are the most common type of jet propulsion used in modern commercial and military aircraft. They are known for their high speed and long range capabilities, but also have relatively high fuel consumption and noise levels compared to other types of jet engines. 

(b) Draw a neat sketch of Bag Filter. 

Draw a neat sketch of Bag Filter

(c) Explain Working principle of Cyclone Separator. 

A cyclone separator is a mechanical device that uses centrifugal force to separate particulate matter from a fluid. It works on the principle of centrifugal force, where particles in the fluid are forced to move in a circular motion due to the rotation of the device.

The working of a cyclone separator begins with the fluid entering the device through an inlet pipe. The fluid then enters the cylindrical section of the separator, where it begins to rotate due to the shape of the device. As the fluid moves in a circular motion, the centrifugal force causes the heavier particulate matter to be thrown to the outer walls of the cylinder.

The particulate matter then moves down the cone-shaped section of the separator, where it is collected in a chamber at the bottom of the device. The cleaned fluid, now free of particulate matter, exits the separator through an outlet pipe.

Cyclone separators are commonly used in industrial applications such as power plants, cement plants, and chemical plants to remove dust and other particulate matter from the air. They are also used in air pollution control systems to remove particulate matter from exhaust gases.

Cyclone separator is an efficient, low-cost and low maintenance separator that can be used to separate particulate matter from a fluid. It is commonly used in various industrial settings, including power plants, cement plants, and chemical plants, as well as in air pollution control systems. 

Q.2 

(a) Enlist Selection criteria of Air Pollution Control Equipments.

Efficiency: The effectiveness of the equipment in removing pollutants from the air is a crucial factor in the selection process. The efficiency of the equipment should be considered in relation to the specific pollutants present in the air stream.

Cost: The cost of the equipment, including initial purchase, installation, and maintenance costs, should be considered when making a selection.

Space Requirements: The equipment should be appropriately sized to fit in the available space and should not take up too much room.

Energy Consumption: The energy consumption of the equipment should be considered in relation to the overall energy consumption of the facility.

Durability: The equipment should be built to last and be able to withstand the harsh conditions of an industrial setting.

(b) Define following terms (along with sketch).

  1. Impaction
  2. Interception
  3. Diffusion
  4. Impingement

Impaction: Impaction is a method of air pollution control that uses a device, such as a filter or a centrifugal separator, to physically remove pollutants from the air stream. Impaction occurs when particles in the air stream collide with and adhere to the surface of the device.

Interception: Interception is a method of air pollution control that uses a device, such as a screen or a mesh, to physically remove pollutants from the air stream. Interception occurs when particles in the air stream come into contact with and are captured by the device.

Diffusion: Diffusion is a method of air pollution control that uses natural forces, such as wind and thermal currents, to disperse pollutants in the air. Diffusion occurs when pollutants are spread out and diluted by the natural movement of the air.

Impingement: Impingement is a method of air pollution control that uses a device, such as a scrubber or a mist eliminator, to remove pollutants from the air stream by physically intercepting them. Impingement occurs when particles in the air stream come into contact with and are captured by the device. The pollutant particles are often captured by droplets of water or other liquid that are sprayed into the air stream. 

(c) Write a short note on venturi scrubber along with sketch.

Write a short note on venturi scrubber along with sketch.

A venturi scrubber is a type of air pollution control equipment that uses the principle of fluid dynamics to remove pollutants from the air stream. It works by using a venturi nozzle, which is a constriction in the shape of an inverted funnel, to increase the velocity of the air stream. This increased velocity causes a drop in pressure, which creates a suction effect that draws in the pollutants.

The pollutants are then mixed with water or other liquid, which is introduced into the air stream through nozzles located near the venturi nozzle. The pollutants are then trapped in the droplets of water and removed from the air stream.

Venturi scrubbers are commonly used in industrial settings, such as power plants and chemical plants, to remove particulate matter, such as dust and smoke, from the air. They are also used in air pollution control systems to remove pollutants from exhaust gases.

One of the main advantages of venturi scrubbers is their high efficiency in removing pollutants, as well as their compact size and low maintenance requirements. They are also a cost-effective solution for removing pollutants from the air.

OR

(c) Briefly Explain the working principle of Gravity Settling Chamber along with sketch. 

Gravity Settling Chamber
A gravity settling chamber is a type of air pollution control equipment that uses the principle of gravity to remove pollutants from the air stream. It works by slowing down the velocity of the air stream and allowing particulate matter to settle out and be collected at the bottom of the chamber.

The working principle of a gravity settling chamber involves the following steps:

  1. The air stream containing pollutants enters the chamber through an inlet.
  2. The air stream then passes through a series of louvers, which slow down the velocity of the air and cause the particulate matter to settle out.
  3. The particulate matter then falls to the bottom of the chamber, where it is collected in a hopper or a bag filter.
  4. The cleaned air exits the chamber through an outlet. 

Gravity settling chambers are commonly used in industrial settings, such as power plants, cement plants, and chemical plants, to remove particulate matter, such as dust and smoke, from the air. They are also used in air pollution control systems to remove pollutants from exhaust gases.

One of the main advantages of gravity settling chambers is their simplicity and low maintenance requirements. They are also a cost-effective solution for removing pollutants from the air. However, they are not as efficient as other types of air pollution control equipment, such as cyclone separators or venturi scrubbers, and may require a larger space. 

Q.3 

(a) Briefly explain avalanche multiplication gas molecule in terms of ESP.

Avalanche multiplication in gas molecules refers to the process by which a small number of free electrons in a gas are accelerated by an electric field, causing them to collide with other gas molecules and create more free electrons. This process, also known as electron avalanche, amplifies the current in the gas and is the basis of the operation of devices such as gas detectors and photomultiplier tubes. The electron-stimulated desorption (ESD) process is a similar process, in which a gas molecule adsorbed on a surface is desorbed by the collision with an accelerated electron.

(B) Write a short note on filtration process of Bag filter.

A bag filter, also known as a fabric filter, is a type of air pollution control equipment that uses bags made of porous materials to remove particles from the air. The filtration process in a bag filter works by forcing the contaminated air through the bags, which act as a physical barrier to capture the particles. The bags are typically made of woven or nonwoven fabrics, and the particles are trapped on the surface of the fabric or within the fibers. The clean air exits the filter through the other side of the bags.The bags must be regularly cleaned or replaced, depending on the application and the amount of particulate matter being removed. Bag filters are commonly used in industrial settings such as cement plants, power plants, and chemical plants to control emissions and improve air quality.

(c) Enlist and explain the Advantages and Disadvantages of ESP.

Electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) are devices used to remove particulate matter from industrial exhaust gases. They work by using an electric field to charge the particles in the exhaust gas, which are then collected on oppositely charged plates or electrodes.

Advantages of ESPs include:

  • High efficiency: ESPs can remove up to 99.9% of particles from the exhaust gas.
  • Low maintenance: ESPs require minimal maintenance and have a long service life.
  • Low energy consumption: ESPs use relatively low energy to operate.
  • Versatility: ESPs can be used to remove a wide range of particle sizes and types.

Disadvantages of ESPs include:

  • High initial cost: ESPs can be expensive to install and maintain.
  • Limited applicability: ESPs are not suitable for removing gases or volatile organic compounds.
  • Size and space limitations: ESPs can be large and may require a significant amount of space.
  • Moisture and temperature limitations: ESPs can be affected by moisture and high temperatures, which can reduce their efficiency.

It is important to note that ESPs should be designed and operated according to the specific needs of the application, as the performance of ESPs can vary greatly depending on factors such as the nature of the pollutants and the operating conditions.

OR

Q.3 

(a) Note Down Reaction chemistry of Limestone Scrubbing.

Limestone scrubbing is a process used to remove sulfur dioxide (SO2) from the emissions of power plants and other industrial facilities. The process involves contacting the emissions with a slurry of crushed limestone, which reacts with the SO2 to form calcium sulfite (CaSO3) and water:

SO2 + CaCO3 → CaSO3 + CO2

The calcium sulfite can then be further reacted with oxygen to form calcium sulfate (CaSO4), also known as gypsum:

CaSO3 + O2 → CaSO4

The gypsum can be separated from the scrubbed flue gas and removed as a solid waste product.

It's important to notice that the reaction is pH-dependent and typically an adequate pH of the scrubber water is maintained between 6.5 to 8.0 using lime or soda ash. 

(b) Classify NOx control methods. 

NOx control methods can be broadly classified into three categories:

  1. End-of-pipe Control Methods: These methods involve the reduction of NOx emissions after they have been produced, using technologies such as selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and selective non-catalytic reduction (SNCR).
  2. Low-Nox Burners: These methods involve modifying the combustion process to reduce the formation of NOx, such as staged combustion and combustion modification.
  3. Fuel-based Control Methods: These methods involve modifying the fuel composition or injection method to reduce NOx emissions, such as the use of low-NOx natural gas or fuel staging. 

(c) Describe Wellman Lord process along with neat sketch. 

Describe Wellman Lord process along with neat sketch.

The Wellman-Lord process is a method of recovering sulfur from sulfur-containing gases. The process involves the oxidation of sulfur dioxide (SO2) to sulfur trioxide (SO3), which is then cooled and scrubbed to produce liquid sulfuric acid. The process consists of several stages, including:

  • Combustion: Sulfur-containing fuel is burned in an oxygen-rich environment to produce SO2.
  • Oxidation: The SO2 is then reacted with oxygen in the presence of a catalyst to produce SO3.
  • Cooling & Scrubbing: The SO3 is cooled and scrubbed to remove impurities and produce liquid sulfuric acid.

The Wellman-Lord process is a well-established technology that has been used for many years to produce sulfuric acid, which is used in a wide range of industrial and chemical applications, including the production of fertilizers, detergents, and other chemicals. The process is also used to control SO2 emissions from power plants and other industrial facilities. 

Q.4 

(a) Enlist the advantages of Bag filter.

High Efficiency: Bag filters have a high collection efficiency for particles in the range of 1 to 100 microns.

Easy To Maintain: Bag filters are relatively easy to maintain, as the filter bags can be easily replaced when they become clogged.

Low Pressure Drop: Bag filters have a low pressure drop across the filter media, which means they require less energy to operate.

Versatility: Bag filters can be used in a wide variety of applications, including air pollution control, product recovery, and dust collection.

Cost-effective: Bag filters are generally a cost-effective option for removing particulate matter from industrial processes and emissions.

Scalable: Bag filters can be easily scaled up or down to meet changing air flow and particulate matter removal requirements.

Can handle high temperature & moisture.

Can handle large volume of air with less space.

(b) Draw a neat sketch of ESP.

Draw a neat sketch of ESP

(c) Draw Air pollution control scheme for Cement and also mentioned sources and types of air pollutants.

Ans. solved in privious year paper 

OR 

Q.4 

(a)  Explain Alternative Fuels & their utilization.

Ans. solved in privious year paper

(B) How to improve efficiency of Cyclone Separator?


There are several ways to improve the efficiency of a cyclone separator:

Increasing The Diameter Of The Cyclone: A larger diameter cyclone will increase the residence time of the particles inside the cyclone, allowing for more efficient separation.

Increasing The Height Of The Cyclone: A taller cyclone will increase the residence time of the particles, as well as increase the distance they must travel before reaching the outlet, allowing for more efficient separation. 

Increasing The Inlet Velocity: A higher inlet velocity will increase the centrifugal force acting on the particles, allowing for more efficient separation.

Optimizing The Design Of The Outlet: The design of the outlet can be optimized to increase the efficiency of the separation.

Adding A Pre-separator: A pre-separator can be used to remove larger particles before they enter the cyclone, allowing the cyclone to focus on removing smaller particles and increasing its efficiency. 

Using A Multistage Cyclone: A multistage cyclone, which uses multiple cyclones in series, can increase the efficiency of the separation by allowing for multiple stages of particle removal.

Regular Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance of the cyclone can help to ensure that it is operating at peak efficiency.

Using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation: CFD simulations can be used to design and optimize the performance of a cyclone separator. 

c) Draw Air pollution control scheme for Thermal Power plants and also mentioned sources and types of air pollutants. 


A typical air pollution control scheme for a thermal power plant can include the following components:

Fuel Handling And Preparation: This includes systems for handling and preparing the fuel, such as coal, oil, or natural gas, before it is burned in the power plant.

Combustion Control: This includes systems for controlling the combustion process, such as burners and boilers, to ensure that the fuel is burned efficiently and cleanly. 

Stack Gas Treatment: This includes systems for cleaning the gases that are released into the atmosphere through the power plant's stack. These systems can include:
  • Electrostatic precipitators (ESP) or fabric filters (FF) for removing particulate matter (PM)
  • Flue-gas desulfurization (FGD) systems for removing sulfur dioxide (SO2)
  • Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems for removing nitrogen oxides (NOx)
  • Carbon capture and storage (CCS) systems for removing carbon dioxide (CO2)

Ash Handling & Disposal: This includes systems for handling and disposing of the ash that is produced during the combustion of the fuel.

Water Treatment: This includes systems for treating the water used in the power plant, such as cooling towers and condensers, to ensure that it is free of pollutants before it is released into the environment.

Sources of air pollutants in thermal power plants include:
  • Particulate matter (PM) from the combustion of fuel and the handling and transport of fuel and ash
  • Sulfur dioxide (SO2) from the combustion of fuel containing sulfur
  • Nitrogen oxides (NOx) from the combustion of fuel and the high-temperature operation of the power plant
  • Carbon monoxide (CO) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the combustion of fuel
  • Carbon dioxide (CO2) from the combustion of fuel and other industrial processes

Types of air pollutants:

  • Particulate matter (PM)
  • Sulfur dioxide (SO2)
  • Nitrogen oxides (NOx)
  • Carbon monoxide (CO)
  • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
  • Carbon dioxide (CO2)
It is important to note that the specific air pollution control measures and technologies used in a thermal power plant will depend on the type of fuel being used and the specific emissions regulations in place. 

Q.5 

(a) Write and explain three forms of NOx. 

NOx is a group of pollutants that are primarily composed of nitrogen oxides, which are formed from the burning of fossil fuels at high temperatures. The three main forms of NOx are:


Nitrogen oxide (NO): Nitrogen oxide is a colorless gas that is formed during combustion processes, such as those in car engines and power plants. It is also a key component of smog and contributes to the formation of acid rain.

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): Nitrogen dioxide is a brown gas that is formed from the oxidation of nitrogen oxide. It is highly reactive and can lead to the formation of ground-level ozone and particulate matter. It also causes respiratory problems such as bronchitis and asthma.

Nitrogen Trioxide (NO3): Nitrogen trioxide is a highly reactive gas that is formed in the atmosphere through a chemical reaction between nitrogen dioxide and ozone. It can lead to the formation of acid rain and can also contribute to the destruction of the ozone layer.

In summary, NOx is a group of pollutants composed of nitrogen oxides, which are formed from the burning of fossil fuels at high temperatures. The three main forms of NOx are nitrogen oxide, nitrogen dioxide, and nitrogen trioxide, which can cause respiratory problems, acid rain and destruction of ozone layer. 

(b) Discuss A/F ratio. 

The air-fuel ratio (A/F ratio) is the ratio of the amount of air to the amount of fuel in an internal combustion engine. This ratio is critical for the proper operation of the engine, as it affects the engine's performance, emissions, and durability. A properly balanced A/F ratio ensures that the engine is running efficiently and producing minimal emissions.

A stoichiometric A/F ratio is the chemically correct ratio of air to fuel for complete combustion to occur. For gasoline engines, the stoichiometric ratio is typically around 14.7 parts air to 1 part fuel. In other words, for every gram of fuel, 14.7 grams of air are required for complete combustion to occur. If there is too much air (a lean mixture), the engine will run inefficiently and produce high levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions. On the other hand, if there is too little air (a rich mixture), the engine will run inefficiently and produce high levels of carbon monoxide (CO) emissions.

Most modern engines use a device called an oxygen sensor to monitor the A/F ratio. This sensor measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases and sends a signal to the engine control module, which can make adjustments to the fuel injection system to maintain a proper A/F ratio. A/F ratio can also be controlled by changing the size of the air intake, or by adjusting the amount of fuel injected into the engine.

In summary, the air-fuel ratio (A/F ratio) is the ratio of the amount of air to the amount of fuel in an internal combustion engine. It is critical for the proper operation of the engine and affects the engine's performance, emissions, and durability. A stoichiometric A/F ratio is the chemically correct ratio of air to fuel for complete combustion to occur. A/F ratio can be monitored by an oxygen sensor and can be controlled by changing the size of the air intake, or by adjusting the amount of fuel injected into the engine. 

(c) Write a short note on Bag filter cleaning mechanisms. 

A bag filter is a type of air pollution control device that uses fabric bags to capture particulate matter from industrial processes or other sources. These filters are commonly used in power plants, cement factories, and other industrial facilities to control emissions of particulate matter.

There are several cleaning mechanisms that can be used to maintain the efficiency of bag filters:

Shaking Mechanism: This mechanism uses a mechanical arm or vibrator to shake the bags and dislodge the collected particulate matter. This method is commonly used in older bag filter designs.

Reverse Air Cleaning: This method uses compressed air to blow the collected particulate matter off the bags. The compressed air is directed into the bags from the inside, blowing the collected particulate matter out of the bags and into a hopper for disposal.

Pulse jet cleaning: This method uses a series of small, high-pressure pulses of compressed air to clean the bags. The compressed air is directed into the bags from the outside, blowing the collected particulate matter out of the bags and into a hopper for disposal.

Mechanical shaking: This method uses mechanical arms to shake the bags and dislodge the collected particulate matter. This method is commonly used in newer bag filter designs.

Ultrasonic cleaning: This method uses high-frequency sound waves to clean the bags. It is less common, but it is becoming more popular as it is more efficient and less abrasive to the bags.

In summary, Bag filter cleaning mechanisms are used to maintain the efficiency of bag filters. Some common mechanisms include shaking mechanism, reverse air cleaning, pulse jet cleaning, mechanical shaking and ultrasonic cleaning. The method selected will depend on the specific application and facility. 


Q.5 All these questions have been solved in last year's paper.