Training Bulletin #61: Scrubber Systems

Question 1

What are scrubber systems?

Answer 1

Where contaminated air from various industrial processes are cleaned and dried before being exhausted into the atmosphere.

Question 2

What do scrubber systems tell you?

Answer 2

That you are working above or around a vat or tank that contain vaporizing emissions of a hazardous nature.

Question 3

A scrubber system may be installed for what type of chemicals?

Answer 3

• Corrosives
• Ammonia
• Sulfur Dioxide
• Oxides of Nitrogen
• Acid
• Caustics (Cause tissue destruction)
• Alcohol Vapors

Question 4

Who is responsible to inspect these systems?

Answer 4

Air Quality Management District

Question 5

What are the two types of ducting material you many find, and what does each indicated for?

Answer 5

• Fiberglass : Non flammable corrosive vapors

- Metal: Flammable vapors

Question 6

How do scrubber systems work?

Answer 6

Evacuate air, put the contaminated air through a washer unit, and then dry it before exhausting to the atmosphere.

Question 7

Where are the systems found in relation to buildings?

Answer 7

• Roof (most likely/smaller system)

- Ground level outside building (large systems)

Question 8

What are the types of systems and how does each function?

Answer 8

1. Water Wash: Method- Particulate absorption, used for paint spraying operations.
2. Filtration: Method- Charcoal absorption used for vapor removal.
3. Chemical Neutralization: Method- Chemical absorption, used for chlorine Leakes etc.
4. Thermal Destruction: Method- Combustion chambers used for burning hydrocarbons.