Foam-based dust control systems are an eco-friendly solution to the problem of industrial dust emissions. Compared to sprinklers and water misting systems, foam systems can conserve water and minimise environmental impact. Let’s look at how these foam control systems work and how they can reduce the environmental impact of your project.
Foam suppression systems use a combination of water, chemicals, and compressed air to generate a foam that captures and immobilises harmful dust particles. The chemical foam itself is made from water mixed with various surfactants and polymers to enhance its dust-trapping capabilities. The foam is applied in a spray through a system of nozzles, hoses, and applicators that direct the foam to specific dust-generating areas.
Foam dust systems give quarries, mines, and industrial operations a flexible and efficient dust control system that can be adjusted to various industrial applications and local dust control needs.
But is using a chemical suppressant really more eco-friendly than a water-based system?
In some cases, yes. Water misting and suppression systems are extremely useful in many applications. However, foam dust control systems outperform many traditional water-only systems in terms of dust suppression efficiency. While water mist is effective at reducing visible airborne dust, it is less effective at capturing the finest respirable dust particles.
There is also the matter of removing airborne dust vs. preventing the formation of airborne dust. Which strategy is the more efficient? Foam systems can be applied directly to the dust generating process to dampen dust at the point of creation. The foam creates a physical barrier that traps dust particles and instantly binds them together through chemical action, reducing respirable dust emissions and improving air quality in the vicinity.
Addressing the problem of dust at the source reduces the cleanup job from producing dust emissions and makes environmental compliance easier. Foam systems are also less water-intensive than water systems, which is good for the environment and your budget.
Foam-based systems use a lot less water than water-only suppression systems. For example, a 2400 MW coal power plant using water sprays might need to use 53 million gallons of water each year to control coal dust. Foam dust control systems use up to 10 times less moisture than water-only systems so that the same power plant would require less than 3 million gallons of water per year, saving 50 million gallons of water.
This amounts to a huge saving on water costs, as well as indirect savings from less need to move, apply, and manage water in the facility, not to mention a significantly lower environmental impact.
Our Best-Chem foam suppression systems can help you control dust hazards on site while conserving water and avoiding damaging the environment. To find out more or to request a quote, please get in touch with one of our technical sales team today on 01530 272922 .