What is the difference between a RTO and a TCO?

Regenerative Thermal Oxidizers (RTO) and Thermal-Catalytic Oxidizers (TCO) Differ in their operating temperatures.

RTO systems operate at higher temperatures -- typically1500°F -- whereas TCO’s use catalyst materials for operation in the 600-800°F range. With lower temperatures reactions with the nitrogen in the air stream with oxygen is less likely therefore reducing possible emissions of NOx. CO emissions are generally lowers as well.

Is a Thermal Oxidizer the same as an Incinerator?

Although the term “incinerators” is sometimes used for oxidizers there is a difference.

Incinerators produce ash (“ciner” means ash) whereas oxidizers do not. Oxidizers generally burn in a controlled environment.

Flares on top of large vent stacks burn but burn incompletely producing some soot ash.

Oxidizers burn completely, producing CO2 and water.

You can learn more about the advantages of Pro-Environmental Thermal Oxidizers by calling toll free 1-888-317-8959 or contact us via the online form.

What is a VOC and what are the problems with them?

VOCs stand for Volatile Organic Compounds.

This could pertain to something such as styrene released in manufacturing processes using Fiberglass Reinforced Plastics, exhaust hoods venting oil based paints from a car manufacturer paint assembly line or even a large a bakery. In all of these cases organic compounds are released to the air from the production process, impacting the environment with odorous concentrations.

Although a bakery might be pleasant to be next too the accumulation of the organic compounds on the olfactory senses can irritate those persons exposed for periods of time. Control of all odourous compounds is something that Thermal or Thermal Catalytic Oxidizers do very well regardless of the VOC converting them into carbon dioxide and water.

Unclear on some terminology? Maybe the Thermal Oxidizer Glossary can help. You can also call one of our experience engineers, Jim Wywrot P.Eng and Neil Fraser P.Eng at 1-888-317-8959