Regenerative Thermal Oxidizers (RTO)

We can evaluate your current oxidizer’s capacity alongside the new process requirements to recommend the best upgrade approach. Options may include adding new heat exchanger media, installing a larger fan, or modifying the burner and combustion chamber to meet destruction needs. For some cases, using a VOC concentrator to reduce pollutant levels before the oxidizer can be an effective solution. Please note that existing equipment may not be sufficient, even with changes or upgrades.

It depends on some design factors that need to be scrutinized but typically, no. Advancements in new structured media designs can sometimes increase the thermal efficiency and reducing pressure drops through the media beds. This can sometimes can provide a couple percentage points of capacity increases over RTOs that utilize saddle ceramic media.

Induced draft fans are often preferred when handling particulates and solvents with high boiling points, as these solvents can condense and build up on forced draft fan wheels, causing maintenance issues and reduced efficiency.

The refractory lining insulates the combustion chamber and helps retain heat. If the refractory becomes cracked, worn, or damaged, heat can escape from the chamber, forcing the burner to fire more frequently to maintain temperature. Over time, this increases fuel consumption and can create hot spots that shorten equipment life.

Some signs of ceramic media plugging include inability to reach and/or maintain the RTO operating temperature, increased pressure pulse from the RTO back to the process, reduced airflow capacity through the RTO, increasing fuel consumption, tripping of pressure switches at the emission source or during poppet valve actuation, and more. Contact our service department to schedule an inspection.