The Benefits of Modular Design
The CES waste-to-energy solution consists of 5 modular elements, with an advanced control system linking them together.
Modular construction has several advantages over normal large plant construction methods:
Modular construction has several advantages over normal large plant construction methods:
- Modules are factory-built and tested for increased reliability and decreased construction costs.
- Factory construction minimizes the complexity of site preparation and allows use of local labor for most local construction requirements.
- Modular design allows plant sizes to begin small and increase incrementally as experience and feed stock increases.
- Modules can be moved to new sites if waste processing needs change, reducing the risk of stranded assets.
- Control system algorithms are standardized based on standard module sizes, decreasing cost and improving reliability.
- Modular construction improves reliability. Individual modules can be taken out of service for maintenance or repair without halting plant production.
CES Modular System Elements
The heart of the CES waste-to-energy platform is the CES Gasification Module (GM). The GM is constructed in standard sizes. A waste to energy plant will incorporate several GMs, sized to meet the waste processing requirements at the customer site. The GM contains advanced sensors, an automated control system, and a specially designed airflow system that controls oxygen while maximizing airflow to ensure consistent processing. Significant materials science effort has gone into designing GM components to ensure that they can operate reliably, handling severe temperature fluctuations and corrosive materials. Typical operating temperatures inside the GM will be 800-1600°F, depending on the fuel source.
The Syngas Control Manifold (SCM) links the syngas output from multiple GMs, allowing them to share common Oxidizer Module resources, reducing capital requirements and improving system reliability.
The CES Oxidizer Module (OxM) was designed in conjunction with leading U.S. manufacturers of commercial thermal oxidizer systems. The OxM is designed to operate above 2200° F, with advanced airflow design for maximum heat exposure and a minimum dwell time of 3 seconds, ensuring thorough destruction of harmful molecules. CES OxM units incorporate gas ignition to ensure consistent contact temperature.
The CES Gasification Module applies heat with precise control of oxygen while maintaining waste/fuel in a stationary environment, minimizing particulate emissions. Meanwhile, the Oxidizer Module thoroughly breaks down potentially harmful molecules. As a further safety measure, to prevent release of any vaporized inorganic contaminants, particulates or other harmful emissions, CES systems also include a custom-designed Advanced Emission Control Module (AECM). The AECM will be engineered specifically for the customer's requirements and feedstock. Depending on the application, the AECM may contain Wet Electrostatic Precipitator (WESP), bag filtration, or other advanced filtration and emission control technologies.
The power plant consists of a boiler assembly, steam turbine, generator and associated electronic switchgear. CES does not directly manufacture power plant equipment, but has formed a strategic partnership with SAIC, an experienced systems integrator with significant expertise in designing and integrating power plant capabilities for a variety of energy producers.
The CES gasification system contains advanced sensor equipment to monitor airflow, gas composition, and heat. These sensors provide information to the operator via an advanced control system that provides process control, fault alarms, and integrated system monitoring to ensure safe and efficient operation of the CES plant.
