Investing in a gas scrubber system for your industrial facility is a decision that comes with a multitude of considerations, and one of the most critical aspects is the cost. The cost of a wet scrubber can range from €250,000,- to €2,500,000,- which is a really broad range.
It’s not just the initial purchase price you need to be mindful of. There are various expenses that need to be considered during the lifetime of your gas scrubber. To make a well-informed decision and effectively manage your budget, we will provide insights into the initial purchasing cost, operating expenses, and recurring costs.
Table of Contents
Initial Purchasing Cost
When it comes to implementing a gas scrubber system in your industrial facility, the initial buying cost is often the first concern that comes to mind. However, this is just one of the many things that come to play when buying a wet scrubber. In this part, we’ll dive into the many aspects of the initial purchase cost, covering everything from the type of pollutants your facility deals with to the construction materials used.
Pollutant Type
The first step in assessing costs is identifying the pollutants your facility emits. Gas scrubbers are highly specialized, and each is designed to tackle specific contaminants. From acidic gases to particulate matter, knowing the pollutant type is the foundation for selecting the right technology.
Efficiency
The efficiency of your gas scrubber in capturing pollutants directly affects its effectiveness and long-term costs. While more efficient scrubbers may have a higher initial cost, they can lead to reduced operating and maintenance expenses over time. Also energy recovery efficiency needs to be considered, as this can influence the scrubbing efficiency.
Capacity
Scrubber capacity should be directly proportionate to your emission levels. An oversized scrubber may be costly and inefficient, while an undersized one can lead to inefficiencies and regulatory non-compliance.
Size
The physical size of your gas scrubber will largely depend on the volume of emissions your facility produces. For larger operations, a more extensive scrubber system may be required to handle the increased emission levels. With the larger system the building cost will increase as the larger system will use more material to be build.
Placement Indoor/Outdoor
The placement of your gas scrubber, whether it’s installed indoors or outdoors, can affect the construction and installation requirements. For example insulation requirements for temperature fluctuations. Each option comes with its own set of costs and considerations.
Waste Treatment Installation
The treatment and disposal of waste generated by the scrubber are complex and have associated costs. Proper waste treatment installations must align with your scrubber system. The necessities will also change when waste heat needs to be recuperated from these waste streams. These costs should be accounted for in the initial investment.
Recover Waste Heat
Many organizations don’t use the full potential of waste heat recovery. Find out how to here:
Piping
Piping design and installation are essential for an efficient gas scrubber system. The choice of materials and the routing can impact both installation and long-term maintenance costs. Proper piping design ensures the system’s optimal functioning. As for instance the distance the scrubber is from the source determines the amount of piping needed.
Compliance
Meeting compliance standards, and regulatory requirements can significantly influence the choice of technology and the cost of the gas scrubber system. It’s essential to consider local, national, and international regulations.
Construction Material
Selecting the right construction material for your gas scrubber is a crucial decision. Different materials have varying costs and durability, and the choice should align with your facility’s specific needs and the corrosiveness of the gases.
Automation
Automation and control systems can enhance efficiency, but they come at an additional cost. The level of automation should be tailored to your operational requirements and production capacity.
Operating Cost
Once your gas scrubber system is up and running, the costs don’t stop. In this part, we’ll explore the operational expenses that you need to consider. Power costs and waste treatment are ongoing concerns that can significantly impact your budget.
Power Cost
The energy required to operate the gas scrubber can be a substantial part of the ongoing operating cost. The choice of scrubber technology, its efficiency and additional logistics will determine the power costs. For example, additional conveying belts with a dry scrubber or water recirculation pumps with a wet scrubber.
Waste Treatment
Proper waste treatment is an ongoing operational expense. Costs associated with treating and disposing of waste generated by the scrubber should be considered. Compliance with waste disposal regulations is essential.
Recurring Cost
Your gas scrubber, like any industrial system, requires regular attention and maintenance to perform at its best. In this part, we’ll show the recurring costs associated with your gas scrubber. This includes the costs of servicing, maintenance, and the use of spare parts.
Service Cost
Regular servicing and maintenance are essential for keeping the gas scrubber in optimal working condition. Budgeting for these services is crucial to prevent unexpected downtime and expenses.
Maintenance
Routine maintenance, including cleaning and inspections, is essential to ensure the longevity of the gas scrubber and minimize costly repairs. Neglecting maintenance can lead to more significant expenses in the long run.
Spare Parts
Spare part costs should be factored into your scrubber’s overall budget to maintain smooth operations. Replacing parts is a necessity and an additional cost to keep the gas scrubber in top working condition, ensuring consistent and efficient pollutant removal.
From the initial buying expenses to the ongoing operational and maintenance costs, understanding these factors is vital for making informed decisions and managing your budget effectively.
At JOA Air Solutions, we’re dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and expertise needed to navigate the complexities of industrial emission control. If you have any questions or require further information, please feel free to reach out to us. We are always here to assist.
