Duplex in cleaning up flue gas emissions

Burning of fossil fuels in power stations and on board ships produces sulfur dioxide, a major pollutant. Therefore, flue gas desulfurization (FGD) units are needed to clean up their emissions.

Marine scubberHowever, it wasn’t until clean air regulations tightened in the 1970s that FGD systems were installed widely. More recently, the International Maritime Agency introduced clean air regulations for the shipping industry, and these require FGD systems for ships. 

FGD removes compounds such as sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, dust and soot. The acidic sulfur dioxide must be neutralized with alkaline chemicals and in marine environments, sea water is often used as a coolant. 

This mix creates an extremely corrosive atmosphere that needs a material with excellent corrosion resistance. In addition, because duplex stainless steel has high strength, it enables engineers to design FGD plants that are relatively compact and lightweight. 

High-alloyed duplex stainless steel grades such as Forta SDX 2507 are ideal for this. 

 

We are celebrating the 90 years of duplex stainless steel. Duplex stainless steel was originally developed by Outokumpu in Avesta, Sweden in 1930. As the original inventor of duplex we have both experience and expertise to take the material further. 

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