Analysis and Application of Key Level Measurement Technologies in Activated Coke Flue Gas Desulfurization Projects
Activated Coke Flue Gas Desulfurization Technology is an emerging dry flue gas desulfurization method that, due to its superior performance, is gradually becoming a significant choice in China’s environmental protection sector.
This technology utilizes the porous structure and strong adsorption properties of activated coke to remove sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and other harmful substances from flue gas through physical and chemical processes, thereby purifying the exhaust gas. Compared to traditional wet desulfurization technologies, activated coke flue gas desulfurization offers multiple advantages, including a simpler process, higher purification efficiency, minimal secondary environmental pollution, and the ability to recycle desulfurization by-products (such as sulfur). This aligns with China’s stringent environmental policies and the national strategy for green and sustainable development.
The Importance of the Material Circulation System
In activated coke flue gas desulfurization projects, the material circulation system is a core component crucial for ensuring stable system operation. Its primary function is to ensure the continuous flow and even distribution of activated coke during adsorption, regeneration, and desulfurization reactions, preventing local excess or deficiency, thus ensuring the efficiency of the desulfurization reaction and the long-term stable operation of the system. The efficiency and stability of this system heavily depend on the precise measurement and control of material levels within the silos.
Level measurement is a key control parameter in the material circulation system. By continuously monitoring the height and distribution of material within the silos, adjustments can be made to the supply and recovery of materials in real-time, preventing production interruptions or system inefficiencies caused by material shortages or excesses. Choosing the appropriate level measurement instruments based on different process requirements and site conditions is crucial. The following sections provide an in-depth discussion of several major level measurement instruments and their applications in activated coke desulfurization projects.
1. Vibration Rod Level Switch
The vibration rod level switch is a high-precision level measurement instrument highly regarded for its innovative design and superior measurement accuracy. Notably, the Tube-11 vibration rod level switch from domestic brands has performance that rivals or even exceeds some imported brands.
The key advantage of the Tube-11 vibration rod level switch lies in its unique dual-tube probe design. This nested structure not only enhances the instrument’s resistance to material build-up and impact but also effectively avoids common issues such as material clinging experienced with traditional fork-type level switches. It can accurately measure materials with a minimum density of 0.02 g/cm³, making it suitable for most solid particulate materials. Therefore, in various complex industrial environments, the Tube-11 vibration rod level switch demonstrates exceptional adaptability, particularly in activated coke flue gas desulfurization projects, where its stability and accuracy have been highly praised by users.
Additionally, under specific operating conditions, the vibration rod level switch shows excellent resistance to interference, maintaining stable measurement performance even in environments with vibration, dust, and significant temperature fluctuations. These features make it the preferred level measurement solution for material circulation systems in activated coke desulfurization projects.
2. Rotary Paddle Level Switch
The rotary paddle level switch, known for its simple structure and low cost, is widely used in various industrial level measurement applications. However, its application in activated coke desulfurization projects faces several challenges. Although it is not affected by material density, temperature, and humidity, the rotary paddle level switch can be prone to issues such as material build-up and paddle deformation when handling sticky materials like activated coke, leading to measurement inaccuracies.
To address these issues, proper installation practices can partially mitigate the problems. It is generally recommended to install a recess on the equipment to buffer the impact of material gravity and reduce damage to the rotary paddle level switch. Nonetheless, despite its lower cost, the measurement accuracy and service life of the rotary paddle level switch may still fall short of the high requirements for activated coke desulfurization projects. Therefore, its use in such critical process applications should be approached with caution.
3. Radar Level Meter
Radar level meters are high-precision instruments in level measurement, especially suitable for complex and challenging operational conditions. They work by emitting electromagnetic waves and receiving reflected signals, using the time-of-flight principle to precisely calculate the material level height. Radar level meters offer continuous measurement, high accuracy, and are not affected by material properties, making them ideal for conditions where materials are sticky, dust-laden, or where the material surface is irregular.
The continuous wave radar level meter, such as the model from Jiwei, is a high-performance product in this category. It is designed to enhance signal-to-noise ratio and anti-interference capabilities, ensuring stable and accurate measurement in complex industrial environments. Additionally, the meter’s built-in aiming device improves measurement reliability for inclined solid materials, avoiding errors caused by irregular material surfaces or high adhesiveness.
In activated coke desulfurization projects, radar level meters are particularly suitable for measuring material levels in regeneration towers. The complex conditions and variable material properties in these towers impose high demands on level measurement instruments. The high accuracy and anti-interference capabilities of radar level meters make them capable of accurately monitoring material distribution, ensuring stability and efficiency in the regeneration process.
Conclusion
In summary, the domestic vibration rod level switch is the preferred option for measuring activated coke levels in desulfurization projects due to its high precision and strong adaptability, meeting the requirements of most operational conditions. For more complex regeneration tower level measurements, radar level meters should be prioritized due to their high accuracy, anti-interference capabilities, and immunity to material properties. Although rotary paddle level switches offer cost advantages, their application in activated coke desulfurization projects requires caution due to their lower measurement accuracy and susceptibility to material characteristics.
By carefully selecting and combining level measurement instruments, activated coke desulfurization projects can achieve efficient and stable operation, further improving desulfurization performance, reducing environmental pollution, and advancing China’s environmental protection efforts.