How a Waste Incinerator Works

How a Waste Incinerator Works

 

Process: Waste is burned in a controlled environment at temperatures between 850°C and 1000°C to destroy hazardous materials and reduce its volume.

 

Input: The process requires fuel (the waste itself), heat (from initial ignition and self-sustaining combustion), and oxygen.

 

Output: The process converts the waste into gas and ash. The heat generated can be captured to produce steam and electricity, a process known as waste-to-energy.

 

Pollution Control: Modern incinerators have air pollution control devices that filter out pollutants from the gases before they are released into the atmosphere.

 

Everything You Need to Know About Thermal Treatment February 8, 2024 - Incineration. Incineration is the most common form of thermal treatment. It involves burning waste at high temperatures...

 

Incinerator 8 Benefits of Waste Incineration

 

Volume and Mass Reduction: Incineration can reduce waste volume by up to 95% and mass by 80-85%.

 

Energy Recovery: The heat generated can be used to generate electricity.

 

Destruction of Hazardous Materials: High temperatures can destroy pathogens in medical waste and harmful chemicals in hazardous waste.

 

Reduced Landfill Use: It provides an alternative to landfills, which is particularly beneficial in areas with limited land.

Potential Disadvantages and Concerns: Competition with Recycling: Incineration can use materials that would otherwise be recycled, and the high cost of building incinerators may divert funds from recycling programs.

Air Pollution: Older incinerators can release harmful pollutants, and even modern incinerators require strict regulation to ensure clean emissions.

Toxic Ash: The ash left behind may contain heavy metals and other toxic substances and requires careful disposal.

Emissions: Some argue that incineration is energy-intensive and may be counterproductive to waste reduction. Types of Waste Processed: Municipal solid waste (household waste), medical or infectious waste, industrial waste, and hazardous waste.