To simulate high air preheat furnaces used in the glass and steel industries, a 2MMBtu/hr (.59 MW) rectangular furnace of dimensions 4ft (1.2m) wide, by 4ft (1.2m) tall, by 8ft (2.4m) long, is combined with high temperature ceramic heat exchangers, which can achieve up to 1500F (816C) air preheat. The burner mounting is very flexible, and several different types of burners can be accomodated. This facility has been validated, by favorably comparing conventional burner performance tests obtained by manufacturers, to those obtained in this facility. In addition, this facility has been used to develop and test a high air preheat burner, which reduces NOx by 90%, at costs comparable to conventional burners. This example shows the value of using this test facility. Fuels capability includes operation on natural gas, liquified petroleum gas and liquid distillate fuels.
For more information, contact Dr. John T. Kelly or Dr. Mehdi Namazian.
November 2004
Altex Technologies Corporation