Scrubbing Function

Hydrogen and oxygen in vent streams create explosion hazards when concentrations reach flammable limits. Process applications require oxygen removal preventing catalyst poisoning or product contamination. Scrubbers reduce H₂ and O₂ to safe levels typically below 1-2% using chemical absorption or catalytic combustion ensuring safe discharge and process protection.

Technology Options

Chemical scrubbers use alkaline solutions absorbing oxygen or reducing agents for hydrogen removal. Catalytic combustors combine H₂ and O₂ over precious metal catalysts producing water vapor. Thermal oxidizers incinerate hydrogen at elevated temperatures. ERGIL selects technology based on gas composition, flow rate, required removal efficiency, and operating economics.

System Configuration

Absorption systems include packed tower with scrubbing solution circulation, chemical feed system, mist eliminator, and solution disposal or regeneration. Catalytic units comprise preheater, catalyst bed, and cooling section. Complete skid packages integrate controls, instrumentation, and safety systems for automated operation.

Applications

Refinery hydrogen plant vent gas treatment, chlor-alkali facility hydrogen removal, electrolysis oxygen scrubbing, nitrogen generator oxygen polishing, and any application requiring combustible gas removal before atmospheric discharge. Protects facilities from explosion hazards and ensures regulatory compliance.

Control and Safety

Gas analyzers monitor H₂ and O₂ concentrations verifying removal efficiency. Temperature and flow controls optimize scrubbing performance. High concentration alarms provide early warning. Automatic shutdown protects against unsafe conditions. Integration with facility safety systems ensures coordinated response.

Material Selection

Stainless steel construction resists corrosion from scrubbing chemicals or combustion products. Catalyst materials including platinum or palladium for combustion systems. Design accommodates exothermic reactions in catalytic units. Materials suitable for operating conditions and gas compositions.

Performance Benefits

Reduces explosion hazards from combustible gas mixtures. Meets environmental discharge limits for hydrogen emissions. Protects process equipment and catalysts from oxygen contamination. Automated operation requires minimal supervision. Proven technology with reliable long-term performance.

Construction Standards

Design per applicable codes with materials suitable for H₂ and O₂ service. Electrical systems for hazardous classification. Relief protection where pressure buildup possible. Complete documentation with safety analysis and performance guarantees supporting regulatory approval.

ERGIL H₂ and O₂ scrubbers deliver effective combustible gas removal ensuring safe atmospheric discharge and process protection across diverse industrial applications.