The paper discusses the simulation of the effects of changes to particle loading, particle size distribution, and electrostatic precipitator (ESP) operating temperature, using ESP models. It also illustrates the usefulness of modern ESP models for this type of analysis. Increasing the inlet grain loading and changing the size distribution can affect the performance of ESP to the extent that it can seriously put the plant out of compliance for particulate matter. An increase in inlet grain loading can result in a larger quantity of fine particles, especially if the particle size distribution changes. The resulting particulate space charge, if sufficiently severe, may suppress the corona in the inlet sections to the point that those sections are ineffective and the performance of the ESP degrades. Temperature reduction will improve ESP performance. However, the performance restoration from lowering the temperature may not be sufficient to put the ESP back into particulate compliance, especially for smaller ESPs. Recent improvements in ESP modeling are allowing the effects of space charge to be computed more precisely than previously possible.

Includes bibliographical references. "Presented at 9th Symposium on the Transfer and Utilization of Particulate Control Technology, Williamsburg, VA., 10/16-18/91." Microfiche.