Design Considerations for Biological Scrubbers

Design Considerations for Biological Scrubbers

There are many considerations in deciding whether a biological scrubber is right for your application, and the successful implementation of that vision. The key design considerations to begin the journey include the following:

H2S load

The key factors in determining the H2S load on the biological scrubber are: 

  • Required airflow rate, and 
  • Inlet average and peak H2S concentrations
  • Temperature, ambient or otherwise.

If the H2S concentrations are not known, Armatec can provide H2S Odalogs to measure at site. 

H2S removal efficiency required

Depending on the final dispersion point and proximity to neighbours (see page 6), the required H2S removal efficiency is selected

Other odorous compounds

If there are high concentrations of other odorous compounds, this may require a specific design. 

Scrubber style

Site area available and any limitations may dictate the dimensions and layout of the biological scrubber(s). Vertical towers are the most common configuration, but horizontal layouts may be required where there are height restrictions. For large airflows, multiple units may be required. Requirements for 50% or 100% redundancy will also influence the final scrubber selection.

Design details

Once a design is selected, the required H2S elimination capacity and empty bed residence time of selected designs are then calculated, and checked they are in the correct ranges. Other detailed design aspects are: 

  • Fresh Water Source - this must not be chlorinated. Are there nutrients in this water?
  • Waste Disposal Point - the waste stream is acidic and must be disposed of appropriately. 

Our experienced chemical engineers can assist you in the careful selection, design, commissioning, optimisation and operation of an Armatec biological scrubber that is ideal for your project.