Emergency Release

Wet/Dry Emergency Scrubbers

Emergency scrubbers are used where pressurized cylinders, reactors, or storage tanks may rupture or spill, creating large quantities and/or concentrations of hazardous chemicals or gases to be released. Standard emergency scrubber systems are sized for 150 lb, 300 lb or 1 ton cylinders but can be customized for any capacity. Typical toxic gases that require emergency scrubbers if released include chlorine, sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and ammonia. Other contaminants, such as titanium tetrachloride or silicone tetrachloride may also require an emergency scrubber system and even need special design considerations to adequately address the submicron acid mists and particulates generated.

HEIL emergency scrubber systems typically consist of our model 770 and 730 wet scrubbers, or our dry Carbon Adsorption vessels. Fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) is the ideal material of construction for these systems because of its resistance to corrosion and capability of withstanding high temperatures. 

Key factors for properly sizing an emergency scrubber include:

1. Contaminant leak rate
2. Evaporation rate
3. Duration of the spill
4. Ventilation rate
5. Heat of reaction generated
6. Outlet concentration required (1/4 or 1/2 IDLH)
7. Corrosion and temperature resistance of materials
8. Cylinder Size

Wet Emergency Scrubber System

Full Scope Emergency Scrubber System

The scope of supply for an emergency scrubber system generally includes, though is not limited to, an eductor-venturi, packed tower, chemical storage tank, recycle pump and piping, gas leak detector, electrical control panel, and instrumentation. Depending on the system size, shop skid mounting and modular assemblies can be provided to minimize installation time and costs.

The eductor-venturi functions as the air motivator and initiates the gas scrubbing action. In addition, the eductor generates a high liquid to gas ratio, providing the required large amount of chemicals to neutralize the high concentration of contaminant and dissipate the heat of reaction. The high-efficiency packed tower acts as a polishing scrubber and completes the scrubbing action for removal efficiencies exceeding 99.999 percent.

Dry Media System for Emergency Release 

Dry media systems can also be used in response to the unexpected release of toxic chemicals. The media consists of a highly porous substance designed to physically adsorb the contaminant into the media.  The media selection is based on various factors and is typically a virgin or chemical impregnated activated carbon media.  Depending on the application, Heil can provide single bed, dual bed, or radial flow carbon adsorption vessels.  A fan is used as the motive force and draws the contaminated air stream through the bed of media.