The primary purpose of the Catalytic Oxidizer is to oxidize the hydrocarbons contained in the exhaust coming from the process. Basically, the hydrocarbons require fuel and oxygen to heat the catalytic cell to a specified temperature where an exothermic reaction will destroy the hydrocarbons.

Catalytic Oxidizers are an ideal control option in applications that have consistent Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC's). By using a catalyst bed in the air treatment equipment, oxidation is accomplished at much lower temperatures compared to thermal oxidation. A catalytic oxidizer operating 370 to 480 °C (700 to 900 °F) range can achieve the same efficiency as a thermal oxidizer operating between 700 and 820 °C (1300 and 1500 °F) which can result in fuel savings of 40 - 60% .

As explained above, normal units are designed to achieve 95% destruction efficiency when operated according to the design specifications.

Advantages

Lowest Operating Cost Effective with High VOC Concentrations Low Exit Temperature

Disadvantages

Process May Poison Catalyst

About the Author

Derek Lang is with Epcon Industrial, a manufacturer of air pollution control systems, thermal oxidizers, and catalytic oxidizers. Learn more at http://www.epconlp.com.