Industrial chimney sizing

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EOLIOS designs chimneys for industrial equipment

We calculate regulatory discharge heights and carry out specific CFD simulations for industrial stack sizing.

Design and sizing of industrial chimneys and flues

Use our CFD simulation expertise to optimize your plant's operation

Asexperts in CFD simulation (fluid mechanics), our company specializes in the dimensioning of industrial chimneys and ducts.

The design and dimensioning of these structures are of crucial importance to ensure optimal operation of industrial plants. We put our know-how and expertise at your disposal to support you in this key stage of your project.

Study of the cross-section of a chimney -
Example of indsutrial network sizing

Using advanced CFD simulation software, we are able to accurately model fluid flows in stacks and ducts. This enables us toanalyze key parameters such as air velocity, pressures, temperatures and pollutant concentrations.

Using digital models, we can simulate real-world operating conditions and identify potential problems, such as reduced flow velocity, instabilities, or vortex formation. Through these in-depth analyses , we can offer optimized solutions for the safe and efficient operation of your industrial chimneys and ducts.

What are the rules for sizing an industrial chimney?

Dimensioning rules for combustion chimneys

The evacuation of combustion fumes is an essential step in the process , due to its impact on the environment as well as on the safety and comfort of operators. Proper chimney sizing is therefore a key step , and this sizing is governed by regulations.

The main function of the chimney is to act as a smoke extractor. Thanks to its height, it creates a negative pressure that allows the combustion fumes to be extracted from the combustion chamber when it is connected to a furnace.

The second role of the chimney is to expel combustion fumes and dissipate them as efficiently as possible, that is, by raising them as high as possible to promote dispersion and thus reduce their environmental impact . If the environmental calculation of the height (defined by regulations) indicates a height greater than that required for extraction, this greater height will be used.

There is no legal obligation , but there is a standard ( NF EN 13084-1, September 2007 ) recommending that chimneys be inspected every two years. In terms of the safety of exterior parts , this is similar to the maintenance of a building.

However, chimneys, whether made of metal, concrete, or brick, are particularly vulnerable to high temperatures and frequent acid attacks from fumes . Therefore, it is essential to regularly inspect them for damage caused by these attacks.

Main standards to be met

The main regulations are as follows:

  • Code de l’environnement : Article R224-18
  • Order of February 2, 1998 articles 52 to 63

In addition to these texts, there are complementary documents:

  • Standard NF EN 13084-1, September 2007: Freestanding chimneys – Part 1: general requirements
  • Standard EN 1990 – EUROCODES, March 2003: Structural Eurocodes – Design bases for structures
  • Standard EN ISO 14122-1, March 2017: Safety of machinery – Permanent means of access to machinery
  • Combustion data sheet

These texts and standards provide guidelines and criteria to be taken into account for chimney sizing, safety and compliance, as well as for the management of environmental impacts associated with combustion smoke exhaust.

Regulatory calculation of chimney height

The height of the chimney is determined in metres by two factors:

  • atmospheric pollutant emission levels
  • the presence of obstacles that could impede gas dispersion.

This measurement, which may not be less than 10 meters, is established by the authorization order in accordance with articles 53 to 56 of the order of February 2, 1998, or it is calculated on the basis of the results of a study of gas dispersion conditions specifically adapted to the site.

Formula for chimney sizing
Formula for calculating the height of a chimney required by regulations

Where

  • S is calculated as: s = k q/cm for each of the main pollutants where :
  • K: is a coefficient of 340 for gaseous pollutants and 680 for dust;
  • q : is the maximum instantaneous theoretical flow rate of the pollutant in question emitted through the stack, expressed in kilograms per hour ;
  • cm: is the maximum concentration of the pollutant considered admissible at ground level due to the installation, expressed in milligrams per normal cubic meter;
  • cm: is equal to cr – co where cr is a reference value given in the table below and co is the annual average concentration measured at the site in question.

Correction of regulatory height according to site

For two stacks i and j, with respective heights hi and hj calculated in accordance with article 54 of the decree of February 2, 1998, they are considered dependent if the following three conditions are simultaneously satisfied:

  • The distance between the axes of the two chimneys is less than the sum of their heights plus 10 metres: (hi + hj + 10).
  • The height hi is greater than half the height hj.
  • The height hj is greater than half the height hi.

In this way, the set of stacks dependent on the stack in question is determined, the height of which is at least equal to the value of hp calculated for the total mass flow rate of the pollutants in question and the total volume flow rate of the gases emitted by all these stacks.

If there are natural or artificial obstacles in the vicinity that could interfere with gas dispersion, the stack height is corrected as follows:

If there are natural or man-made obstacles in the vicinity likely to interfere with gas dispersion, the stack height is corrected.

To comply with the decree of February 2, 1998, industrial chimneys must measure a certain regulatory height.

However, the regulatory height should not solely define the final height of the chimney. Other criteria must be considered, such as the draft level, pressure losses, dilution flow rates, and the risk of accidental pollution.

The study of industrial networks using CFD simulation

Optimization of industrial stacks through specialized CFD simulation studies

Fluid mechanics studies applied to industrial chimneys are essential to ensure the optimal operation of these installations. As experts in the field of CFD (fluid mechanics) simulation, we specialize in conducting these key studies.

Our expertise enables us to carry out various studies for industrial chimneys, such as :

– Thermal draft study: We evaluate the chimney system’s ability to create sufficient draft to evacuate fumes and combustion gases. Using advanced simulations, we take into account parameters such as chimney height, flue gas temperature, the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the chimney, and local environmental conditions.

– Calculation of pressure losses: We analyze the pressure losses in the chimney, which are due to friction between the moving gases and the chimney walls. This study allows us to determine the available pressure for the draft and to optimize the chimney design in terms of sizing and choice of materials.

– Erosion due to dust particles in flue gases: We study the impact of dust particles present in combustion gases on chimney walls. Through advanced simulations, we identify at-risk areas and recommend appropriate protective measures, such as the use of abrasion-resistant materials or dust collection devices.

– Atmospheric dispersion analysis: We analyze the dispersion of combustion gases in the atmosphere, taking into account air quality regulations. Through precise simulations, we assess the gas dispersion from the chimney, considering local weather conditions.

– Structural stability analysis: We assess the chimney’s resistance to external loads, such as wind and earthquakes. This study ensures the chimney’s structural stability and allows us to recommend modifications or reinforcements if necessary.

Dew point analysis: In a pressurized industrial duct, dew point analysis is of vital importance, as it determines whether moisture in the duct could condense and lead to problems such as corrosion or frost formation.

Illustration of air velocities in an industrial chimney using CFD simulation
CFD simulation of an industrial chimney

Industrial chimney design with EOLIOS

EOLIOS ingénierie: Your trusted partner for dimensioning industrial chimneys and ducts in compliance with standards and regulations

Our team of experts has extensive experience in CFD simulation and in-depth knowledge of current standards and regulations. We are able to take into account all relevant parameters to offer you customized solutions tailored to your specific needs.

By working with us, you will benefit from leading expertise, personalized advice, and support throughout the entire process of sizing your industrial chimneys and ducts. Our goal is to help you maximize the performance of your installations while ensuring compliance with current environmental and safety standards.

Please contact us for more information about our expert services in industrial chimney and duct sizing. We’ll be delighted to discuss your project and propose solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Example of a design study for an industrial chimney

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