SO₂ Fume Scrubber for Gold Mine

A gold mining facility in Chile required an efficient air pollution control system to remove sulfur dioxide (SO2) fumes generated during their extraction and refining process. To meet this need, Monroe Environmental designed and supplied a 650 ACFM Wet Air Scrubber System, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and protecting worker safety.

Custom-Engineered Sulfur Dioxide Scrubber

Monroe Environmental’s solution was based on its proven Packed Tower Wet Scrubber technology, which utilizes a NaOH (sodium hydroxide) scrubbing solution to neutralize SO2 emissions. The system was designed to provide high-efficiency gas absorption while maintaining low maintenance requirements and reliable long-term operation in the demanding conditions of a mining environment.

Packed Tower Scrubber Scope of Supply

The comprehensive scrubber system included:

  • Packed Tower Wet Scrubber – polypropylene construction, NaOH scrubbing solution
  • Packing Media – high efficiency transfer media for optimal gas/liquid contact
  • Mist Eliminator – Captures and removes fine liquid droplets from the exhaust gas
  • Liquid Reservoir – Stores and manages the scrubbing solution
  • Recirculation Pump – Ensures continuous chemical distribution for effective SO2 removal
  • Fan Assembly – Provides airflow through the scrubber for continuous absorption
  • Interconnecting Ductwork – CPVC construction for corrosion resistance
  • Instrumentation – Differential pressure gauge, magnetic flow transmitter, and multi-point level transmitter for system monitoring and control

Optimized Wet Scrubber Design for Efficiency and Reliability

The scrubbing system was mounted on a steel skid, simplifying installation and transportation. Monroe Environmental utilized a standardized scrubber design, which allowed for a shorter lead time while still incorporating custom modifications to meet the customer’s exact requirements. This approach ensured a balance between cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and operational flexibility.

The installed system was designed to achieve an impressive 99% SO2 removal efficiency, significantly reducing emissions and ensuring a safer, cleaner work environment.

Monroe Environmental continues to support mining and industrial operations with high-performance air and water pollution control systems, helping clients meet stringent environmental standards while maintaining operational excellence.