Emission Control Systems
Emission control systems are devices that monitor and diminish harmful byproducts of combustion and other processes that, without these systems in place, would normally be released into the atmosphere. Industrial processes, such as combustion, emit unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen and sulfur, among other harmful pollutants. Emission control systems can convert these contaminants into water vapor and carbon dioxide which may be safely released into the environment or recirculated. Particulate and gaseous emissions pose a threat to cardiovascular and lung health in humans and animals. This pollution can also have serious environmental repercussions as they increase ozone depletion. Regulatory agencies have placed strict limitations on acceptable emission levels. As a result, a wide range of industries are now using emission control systems. Automotive, pharmaceutical, medical, microelectronic, bio-safe labs and aerospace industries are just a few who employ these systems to decrease harmful byproducts.
A variety of systems for managing emissions from different sources have been developed. Automotive emissions are controlled by several processes including exhaust gas recirculation valves, catalytic converters, air pumps, positive crankcase valves and charcoal canisters. Industrial emission control systems are often much larger though not necessarily more complex. Wet scrubbers and air scrubbers are installed to remove particulates from the air as are many other air filtration systems. Both catalytic and thermal oxidizers are used to break down pollutants and purify the air. Early emissions control systems were simply add-on components that solved a particular emission need. While add-ons are still used today, products and factories often have built in emission control systems that have become a significant part of the combustion and manufacturing process.