ENERGY AND COST EFFICIENT ODOUR CONTROL USING MICROTURBINES

A collaborative demonstration project led by Centra Gas Manitoba Inc. during the summer and fall of 1999 showed microturbine technology to be effective for the control of odours and noxious gases, in particular hydrogen sulfide, generated at a wastewater treatment plant. Prior to the project, the technology had not yet been specifically used or tested for this application.A microturbine represents a form of thermal oxidation. Unlike conventional thermal oxidation systems, however, part of the input energy is converted to electricity with further opportunity available for exhaust heat recovery, thus enhancing energy efficiency.The extent of destruction of hydrogen sulfide was found to be a function of turbine operating temperature, with destruction levels as high as 99.98% demonstrated. Total odour reduction exceeding 95% was also achieved using the microturbine at the demonstration site.Microturbine technology is now reaching commercialization, with systems from a variety of manufacturers now becoming available. The economic feasibility assessment showed that this novel technology offers a cost advantage compared to conventional thermal oxidation systems for the treatment of small, intense foul air streams.