Regenerative Thermal Oxidizers (RTO)

An installed regenerative thermal oxidizer unit

A regenerative thermal oxidizer (RTO) is an air pollution control device that destroys VOCs and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) in industrial exhaust air. By using regenerative heat recovery, it achieves high fuel efficiency, often operating with 95% heat recovery.

Regenerative Thermal Oxidizers (RTO) are the technology of choice for most applications due to its high VOC destruction efficiency, low fuel use and long system life.
We are buying a new piece of process equipment. Do we have capacity in our existing oxidizer or can we make changes to achieve the needed capacity?

We can evaluate the existing oxidizer capacity and the requirements of the new process and determine the best approach to upgrade the oxidizer. This could include new heat exchanger media, a larger fan or possibly both. We would also evaluate things like the burner system and combustion chamber size to verify it can provide the required destruction levels. Some applications would be a good match for a VOC concentrator that can significantly concentrate (>10:1) airstreams currently exhausting to the oxidizer.

What is the operating temperature of a thermal oxidizer?

Typically 1400 F minimum up to 1550 F depending upon the VOC characteristics.

Can we install catalyst in our RTO?

In most cases, yes. But proper evaluation is recommended to establish that no potential catalyst poisons or masking agents are present in your airstream.

What is the role of turbulence in a thermal oxidizer?

VOCs must combine with oxygen and heat to trigger the chemical reaction that breaks them down into CO2 and H2O. There are many successful thermal oxidizer designs that ensure sufficient turbulence, such as introducing the process air at an angle to induce spin or creating internal choke points. The better the mixing and heat distribution, the higher the VOC destruction.

Is the RTO optimized for my exhaust airstream?
  • RTOs typically treat airstreams with a 0-10% Lower Explosive Limit (LEL)
  • RTO systems can handle 25% LFL airstreams, though hot gas bypass systems and other features may be needed
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