The use of electrostatic precipitators on municipal incinerators.

It has been approximately ten (10) years since the first electrostatic precipitator was applied to an incinerator in the United States by the City of New York. Since that time, numerous installations have been made on various types of incinerators. This paper gives a brief description of the majority of the installations as well as actual performance data as compared to manufacturers' guarantees. It is noted that performance guarantees on operating installations have been met in all cases. Operating and maintenance experiences are also cited. The majority of the problems reported had to do with dust removal from the precipitator hoppers. Cor­ rosion has also been experienced where the plant operation is intermittent. It is concluded that pre­ cipitators are a viable solution to air pollution re­ sulting from the burning of waste.