A Southeastern Utility Plant off-loads coal from barges--then uses a conveyor belt system to move the coal three miles to storage. Coal dust buildup in the three miles of transfer tunnels routinely reached a twelve inch depth before being washed down by plant personnel.

Cleanings were required frequently because of these conditions. The transfer tunnels were originally equipped with a water spray system for dust control. Over the years, plant personnel realized that the only way water spray alone could control the dust was to drench the coal. However, drenching caused wet coal conditions and mud buildup on the transfer equipment.

The water spray system was retrofitted with an AS-8896 Dust Suppressant Feed System. Dusting was controlled at a level far lower than ever achieved with the water system. Dust control was achieved without wetting the coal or causing any mud buildup.

AS-8896 is turned into a thick foam by the ASI Feed Equipment. The near dry foam is applied as a very fine layer on top of the coal. This nearly dry barrier traps fine dust particles and binds them to the coal.

Since retrofitting the water spray system with an AS-8896 Feed System the plant has had no dust related problems. Also, operations personnel have to hose out the transfer tunnels far less frequently.

Effective dust control at this facility is a requirement for environmental compliance as well as safety. Dust control was one of the key issues when the facility considered utilizing petroleum coke as an alternative fuel.

AS-8896 is able to control the petroleum coke dust very effectively. The combination of AS-8896, ASI Feed Equipment, and Superior Customer Service has eliminated dusting problems at this plant.

Interested in seeing if AS-8896 Dust Suppressant can work for you? Contact techservices@appliedspecialties.com for a FREE no cost survey of your facility. At ASI, we produce results!