Flow Visualization of Flue Gases in Multi-Tube Electrostatic Precipitators Using CFD Simulations

Particulate matter capture is a necessary concern for safeguarding human health and quality of life. This article focuses on enhancing particulate matter capture efficiency via electrostatic precipitation. It deals with expanding the fundamental principle of the single electrode in chimney tubular precipitator to a configuration with multi-tubular precipitation chambers with the aim of increasing the collection area and consequently enhancing the overall efficiency of the separator. The velocity distribution of flue gases was observed through Computational fluid dynamics using Ansys Fluent. The collection area for each proposed separator was calculated, including its enlargement, and the flow uniformity of flue gases through the tubes was assessed. Increasing the number of tubes from one to three resulted in 1.3 times an increase in the collection area. Further expansions to 4, 5, and 7 tubes led to increases of 1.6, 1.7, and 2.1 times, respectively. It was found that due to non-uniform flow distribution through the tubes, the flue gas velocities varied, with values ranging from 0.186 to 1.178 m. s^-1. Non-uniform gas flow prevents full utilization of the separator potential, thereby reducing its efficiency. For uniform flow, it would be appropriate to seek a suitable solution for a flow straightener. Additionally, the high particle velocities should be avoided to prevent particles from being carried out of the stack with the flue gas, allowing sufficient time for capture.