A proactive approach to minimizing opacity from cement kilns

Opacity of cement kiln stacks has become a concern for all manufacturers because of increased regulatory enforcement and neighborhood complaints. The minimization of plume opacity requires an understanding of the causes of opacity, management of process operating conditions and feed stocks, and optimization of abatement equipment. This paper presents a proactive approach for evaluation of plant specific process influences and effects of precipitator size, operating conditions, and maintenance practices. Also the formation of condensing and secondary (gas phase plume reactions) plumes is discussed.