Previous Chapter: Pyrolytic Destructor

Operation

Operation of the Pyrolytic Destructor™

When the operator is ready to charge the Pyrolytic Destructor, he opens the pyrolysis chamber doors by pressing the DOOR OPEN button. Next the mechanical loading system loads the pyrolysis chambers. After insertion of the carts, the operator presses the DOOR CLOSE buttons on the control panel, which causes the pyrolysis chamber doors to close and seal. The operator is required to hold down the DOOR OPEN and DOOR CLOSE buttons as a safety feature.

To initiate the pyrolysis destruction cycle the operator simply presses the START button on the display screen. The industrial burner is ignited to heat the Oxidation Chamber. When the oxidization chamber has reached operating temperature of 952°C (1,800°F) the pyrolysis cycle is initiated. After pressing the START button and observing the initial steps of start-up, the operator is no longer required and can perform other duties.

Heat from the Oxidation Chamber is conducted into the pyrolysis chamber, at a controlled rate. The entire process is automatically controlled by computer, based upon the initial input data and the process sensors. Control panel interlocks prevent the operator from improperly operating the equipment. Emergency shut-down procedures are programmed so that the control system will automatically initiate the proper actions depending on inputs from sensors. Once the cycle has begun, the operator cannot override the controls and open the pyrolysis chamber without first following emergency or normal shutdown protocols.

During the cycle the energy provided by the waste, allows the burners to modulate to a low-fire position, thus saving a considerable amount of fuel. Following complete destruction of the waste, the auxiliary blower continues to draw air through the preheat shroud of the system and under the pyrolysis hearth which cools the Pyrolytic Chamber.

Upon completion of the cycle, the mechanical loading system removes the carts containing residue from the pyrolysis chamber, and allows them to cool to room temperature so the residue can be removed for disposal. The operator can now repeat the above process, beginning the second cycle. Loading the second set of HTAS carts can occur while the pyrolysis chamber is still well above room temperature, which reduces the preheat cycle time and saves fuel.

Organic materials are reduced by as much as 97% by volume. Inorganic materials are not reduced in mass, but are physically changed by prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Analysis of the average emissions from Pyrolytic Destructor systems are well below the USEPA's new medical waste incinerator air emission guidelines.

Energy Efficiency and Safety

A preheating/cooling shroud around the Pyrolytic Destructor is used to: (1) reduce fuel use by preheating the oxidation chambers' combustion air during operation; (2) cool the pyrolysis chambers after the destruction cycle has been completed; and (3) provide a safe surface temperature around the pyrolysis system.

Pyrolytic Destructor™ Construction and Maintenance

All of Honua's Pyrolytic Destructors are constructed from quality materials meeting strict performance specifications. Each unit is designed for long life and ease of maintenance. High temperature refractory fiber modules are used in the pyrolysis chamber. Facility maintenance personnel can replace these modules, if necessary, with little effort or specialized knowledge. Temperature probes, thermocouples, switches, electric motors and the industrial burner are all simple and standard off-the-shelf industrial items.

Next Chapter: Specifications