Electrostatic Precipitation Lab

Since 1997, researchers and students in the Russ College’s Electrostatic Precipitation (ESP) Lab have specialized in discovering new and creative ESP designs that more efficiently remove particulates from coal-fired power plant emissions. Performing research from bench-scale up to pilot-scale, we examine almost every aspect controlling the electrostatic precipitator to reduce particulate emissions and develop new methods for particulate capture.

For more information, contact Assistant Professor Muhammed Ali.

Facilities and Equipment

At 3,000 square feet, our ESP lab is one of only a few facilities in the world fully equipped with all the tools required to simulate, test, and analyze emission collection efficiency.

The laboratory has the capability to simulate full-scale conditions of typical emission capture situations with a pilot-scale ESP. This ESP has a testing space of 96” long by 83” tall–by 48” wide. The electric field is created by an NWL PowerPlus unit, rated at 70kV and 400mA. The gas flow is produced by a variable frequency drive fan, able to provide up to 10,000 cfm. Wide ranges of dust concentrations can be achieved, from 10mg/m3 ~ 100mg/m3 and up to 7.5g/m3 (concentrations based on 7,200 cubic feet per minute). Tests can also be carried out at elevated gas temperatures.

The laboratory has many methods of collecting and analyzing test data, including the Method 5 EPA standard for emission capture analysis, which is used in industry to determine the particulate levels being released into the atmosphere. By using isokinetic sampling, concentrations of particulate can be determined. This is a very trusted and reliable source of testing. Particulate concentrations are also determined using light scattering technology from the Thermo Scientific ADR 1500. The laboratory uses two units to provide real-time aerosol concentrations at the inlet and the outlet of the ESP.   

The laboratory will be installing SO2 storage systems as well as an SO2 to SO3 conversion and delivery system to the ESP testing facility. During that time, there will also be steam lines installed to increase the humidity up to 100% in the testing space.

ESP Lab Services

  • Current ESP Test Space
    • 96” Long - 83” Height - 48” Wide
    • Perform Wet ESP and Dry ESP testing
  • Manufacturing Custom Test Rigs
    • Our lab focuses on the reduction to emissions of criteria air pollutants in creative and new ways. 
  • Baldor VFD Fan
    • Capable of 10,000 CFM
  • NWL T/R PowerPlus
    • Rated to 70kV and 400mA
  • Dust Feeders
    • Low - up to 350mg/sec
    • High - up to 30g/sec
  • Natural Gas/Propane Burners
  • Steam Line for humidity control
  • SO2 Generation system

Additional Information + Resources

Research   Research Faculty   Publications

Sponsors

We are always looking for ways to grow and work with others that share our passion.

  • Industry
    • We have worked with many companies and organizations in the past. If your company would like to use our facility and expertise, please let us know.
  • Institutions
    • If you are a university or college looking to learn more about ESP technology, let’s see how we can work together toward the same goal.
  • Graduate Opportunities
    • If you are an undergraduate student thinking about the future or a graduate student looking for continued education opportunities in the field of ESP technology, send us a message. We are constantly working on new and exciting topics.

Previous Sponsors:

  • Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI)
  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
  • American Electric Power (AEP)
  • Ohio Coal Development Office
  • Powerspan
  • Babcock and Wilcox (B&W)
  • Southern Environmental Incorporated
  • U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)