Utilization of the MK Combustion Optimization System™ to Maximize Combustion Efficiency in an Environment-First Fashion Available to Purchase

Nitrogen oxide (NO_x) emissions discharged into the atmosphere from fossil fuel combustion prove to have adverse effects on the environment and human health. Contributing factors include the formation of acid rain, ozone, degradation of visibility, and inhalable fine particles. In addressing these problems, environmental regulations are becoming more stringent on electric utilities. Low NOx burner (LNB) technology was developed to provide a cost-effective means of complying with the NOx Reduction Program under Title IV of the Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA) of 1990. Prior to LNB technology, standard burners were designed to rapidly mix the fuel and oxidant, producing high combustion efficiency and large quantities of NO_x. Limiting the reaction rate at which the air and fuel mix, particularly during the early stages of combustion, can effectively control NOx formation; however, this rate limitation tends to diminish combustion efficiency and proves to be the compromise of LNB technology. Controlling one aspect or the other can be intuitively easy, but controlling both is challenging and trade-offs are necessary. Identifying a happy medium between the standards of yesterday and today is necessary in the optimization of coal-fired combustion. The ultimate effect will improve commercial availability in an environment-first fashion.