Foam Barrier Terminator: Chemi Tech Defoamer Safeguards Efficient Operation of Power Plant Desulfurization Systems

At a major energy complex, a silent battle was unfolding inside the absorber tower of the desulfurization system. The normally steady slurry recirculation pumps emitted unusual, muffled noises due to abnormal foam accumulation. These stubborn bubbles acted like an invisible barrier, impeding the crucial contact between sulfur dioxide (SO₂) gas and the absorbent slurry, and severely disrupting the crystallization process of the key byproduct – gypsum. Operators observed persistent false high-level readings within the tower, a gradual decline in gypsum dewatering efficiency, excessive moisture in filter cakes, and the economic viability of the system slowly eroding.

Confronted with this challenge, engineers tried various approaches, but the results were often short-lived. The turning point came with the introduction of Chemi Tech's specialized defoamer, engineered specifically for power plant FGD (Flue Gas Desulfurization) processes. The core design of this defoamer lies in its precision targeting of the unique conditions within desulfurization slurry: high temperature, high alkalinity, high solids content, and complex ionic environments. Its unique molecular structure rapidly identifies and ruptures foam lamellae, dismantling the foam network with fast and long-lasting action.

The application results were impressive: within just a few circulation cycles after dosing, the turbulent foam layer inside the tower visibly subsided, and the slurry pumps regained their steady operational hum. The most immediate change was the restoration of accurate level readings and a stable improvement in SO₂ removal efficiency. Crucially, the quality of gypsum crystallization was significantly enhanced, filter cake formation improved, moisture content effectively reduced, and the load on the dewatering system lessened. Operators reported precise control over defoamer dosage, with no adverse interference on system pH or slurry composition. The stability and cost-effectiveness of system operation received a dual boost. Chemi Tech defoamers are proving to be the unsung heroes safeguarding the efficient, long-term operation of desulfurization systems.