Using GCM modeling for Clean Air

Data-driven modeling (lab results and factory measurements) contributes to building economical and extraction systems that are reliable over the long term with a truly meaningful process guarantee.

JOA quote

Modeling makes the difference between knowing what to expect
and hoping for the best.

René Bosscher, Manager Service & Modeling at JOA Air Solutions

Industrial dust collection and ventilation systems are relatively easy to build but very hard to operate in a stable, reliable, and efficient manner. That is, if the system has not been modeled beforehand in different production scenarios (e.g. summer/winter scenarios), preventing of dust/mung build-up in piping and exact pressure balancing without the need for installing valves. The influence of bends, restrictions, hoods, connections, etc. have to be considered in the calculations to ensure that all the pressure drops in the system are balanced at 1 Pa. precisely.

Why GCM Modeling?

Modeling of the extracted air itself is critical, especially when the operating point of the system is close to the condensation point. Undesired condensation can lead to fouling, corrosion and downtime and is easy to prevent by conditioning the air (heaters, dryers, dilution, etc.).

GCM Modeling ensures:

  • System performance directly from start-up

  • No need to learn and optimize during production

  • Insights between dust particles and air flow to understand fouling behavior of the extraction system and hoods

What is GCM Modeling?

General Circulation Models (GCM) are used all over the Air Filtration industry.

What makes our patented model special is

  • Learn about particulate matter behavior

  • Predict future outcomes

  • No need to optimize after commissioning

  • Foundation of new ground-breaking innovations

Calculating of the air properties is the starting point of designing of a well-balanced system. The data that is normally readily available is the pressure (P), temperature (T), and relative humidity (RH). From this data it is possible to calculate air density, and together with the air velocity in the system, one can model the pressure drops.

The only way to correctly model the system is to use the primary calculation variables pressure, mass flows of water and dry air, and the enthalpy of the system. These variables are initially derived from the P, T, and RH at the air inlets. Based on the primary variables all other air properties (e.g. density, air temperature, condensation temperature, viscosity, etc.) can be calculated.

Benefits of GCM Modeling

The main reasons for precise modeling is to add value in the following ways:

  • Minimize risks and unexpected setbacks

  • Implement air filter system ‘the 1st time right’

  • Provide a meaningful process guarantee on the overall system design

  • In combination with humidity control, a 33% fewer rejected bioreactor batches can be made possible (example of medicine manufacturing)