Electrostatic precipitator-An electrostatic precipitator (ESP), or electrostatic air cleaner is a particulate collection device that removes particles from a flowing gas (such as air) by using the force of an induced electrostatic charge. Electrostatic precipitators are highly efficient filtration devices that minimally impede the flow of gases through the device, and can easily remove fine particulate matter such as dust and smoke from the air stream. In contrast to wet scrubbers, which applies energy directly to the flowing fluid medium, an ESP applies energy only to the particulate matter that is collected, making ESP a product that is efficient and inept in consuming energy. The first use of corona discharge to remove particles from an aerosol was by Hohlfeld in 1824. But it was not commercialized until almost a century later. In 1907, Chemistry Professor Frederick G. Cottrell ( University of California, Berkeley) applied for a patent on a device for charging particles and then collecting them through electrostatic attraction–the first electrostatic precipitator.
It was during these times that wine-producing vineyards in northern California were being adversely affected by the lead emissions. Therefore, Cottrell first applied the device to the collection of sulphuric acid mist and lead oxide fumes emitted from various acid-making and smelting activities. At the time of Cottrell’s invention, the theoretical basis for operation was not understood. The operational theory was developed later in the 1920s in Germany. Cottrell used proceeds from his invention to fund scientific research through the creation of a foundation called Research Corporation in 1912, to which he assigned the patents. The intent of the organization was to bring inventions made by educators (such as Cottrell) into the commercial world for the benefit of society at large. The operation of Research Corporation is perpetuated by royalties paid by commercial firms after commercialization occurs. Research Corporation has provided vital funding to many scientific projects: Goddard’s rocketry experiments, Lawrence’s cyclotron, production methods for vitamins A and B1, among many others.
By a decision of the US Supreme Court, the Corporation had to be split into several entities. The Research Corporation was separated from two commercial firms making the hardware: Research-Cottrell Inc. (operating east of the Mississippi River) and Western Precipitation (operating in the western states). The Research Corporation continues to be active to this day, and the two companies have formed to commercialize the invention. Also, industrial and utility applications are still in business as well. For more information on Sejin Electronics Co, visit www.senics.com.
SEJIN ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
CEO Jung, D.H.
www.senics.com
Email : sejinmax@hitel.net
Int’l 82.2.389.2556
