The Problem

As the need for increased food safety grows, chemists must find better ways to control dangerous pathegens from entering the food supply. Two seemingly mild chemicals-acetic acid (vinegar) and hydrogen peroxide, can be combined to create peracetic acid. This colorless liquid is outstanding as an antimicrobial agent that is used from food processing to medical sterilization. The problem with peracetic acid is that it is so corrosive that it can dissolve many metals and it's fumes are very dangerous. So when a company in the bottling industry used peracetic acid as a disinfectant in their plant, they realized a need to safely exhaust the fumes. Considering how corrosive this acid is, and how difficult it is to control chemically, many companies turned this customer down. They were very happy after they contacted Chicago Plastic Systems.

The Solution

The start of any successful ventilation project is to get an understanding of the customer's process. From here we're able to design a system​​​​​​​ that works with the temperature, velocity, and chemistry involved. The difficult part of this job was in the chemistry. Our team worked closely with our manufacturer partners and the end customer to determine a unique and proprietary solution to control the acid vapors. Next, our engineering department built the solid models and submitted prints to the customer for review. The next issue was dealing with the space limitations at the end user site. After a few changes, we were able to provide a scrubber​​​​​​​ that solved all the customer challenges. We have since been awarded additional contracts to outfit other plants with this technology.

Project Specifications

Product UseRemoves acid vapor from airstream
IndustryBottling/Food/Medical
MaterialWhite PVC Type II
Primary ProcessHot Gas Welding
Secondary ProcessEngineering & Assembly
Minimum Tolerance+/- .030
Chemical ExposureStrong Acids
Scope Of WorkEngineer, Build, Test, Install, Start up
Chicago Plastic Systems AdvantagesSpecialized understanding of chemistry involved, scrubber design/experience
Product NamePeracetic Acid Scrubber

Completed Project

This close up view shows the some of the tubing and piping required to maintain the complex chemistry that make this scubber unique. The framing as well at the control cabinet are made from stainless steel fabricated in house.  We attached the sump to the body with hot gas welding that is leak free which is important when dealing with peracetic acid.

Because the customer required the fan to be indoors and space was a concern, we selected this quiet running stainless steel model and designed it to fit directly on top of the scrubber body. It is a centifugal fan.

The PH sensor feeds back to the PLC and automatically makes adjustments to the chemistry.  It also indicates the reading on this monitor located on the front of the control panel.  Chicago Plastic Systems relies on accurate dependable Signet brand instruments like this one.

Views from the rear make it easier to see the accomodations that were made so the scrubber would fit the customer site.

Air flows downward making a 90 degree turn immediately at the inlet to the body. Then it flows up through the first pack stage and then down the duct and into the second stage. The control panel is located directly above the sump to save space as well.

The square flange pictured contains a clear PVC sight glass and acts as an acess door for maintenance.

Case Studies

Nothing demonstrates technical detail knowledge, fabrication expertise and problem-solving abilities better than real-world examples. The case studies at left illustrate how Chicago Plastic Systems helped to overcome the toughest challenges and manufactured high-performing, long-lasting custom plastic components and assemblies for clients. For additional information, give us a call.

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