Discharge electrode shape optimization for the performance improvement of electrostatic precipitator with six-branched spike discharge electrode and hexagonal collecting plate

Although various studies have explored improving electrostatic precipitator efficiency and discharge electrode shapes, optimization considering multiple shape variables simultaneously has not yet been extensively performed. In this study, a hexagonal collecting plate was used in a honeycomb-type electrostatic precipitator, and the effects of shape variables of a six-branched spike discharge electrode on collection efficiency were examined. A total of 42 discharge electrode shapes were selected based on the range of shape variables, and the optimal discharge electrode shape was determined by analyzing the collection efficiency of the electrostatic precipitator based on discharge electrode shape variables through numerical analysis. The collection efficiency increased with an increase in the length of the discharge electrode wires and a decrease in the interval between the wires in the flow direction. Further, the collection efficiency decreased with an increase in the flow rate of the aerosol because the particle residence time decreased. Experiments were conducted by preparing the discharge electrode shapes before and after optimization; the collection efficiency obtained through the numerical analysis was in good agreement with that of the experiment. Although the collection efficiency of the electrostatic precipitator was increased by approximately 20 % by optimizing the discharge electrode shape, the amount of power consumption and ozone generated were almost identical before and after optimization. The results of this study indicate that the optimization of various discharge electrode shapes is beneficial for significantly improving the performance of electrostatic precipitators while maintaining power consumption and ozone generation, potentially improving energy efficiency and reducing operational costs.