Optimization of Flow for Forcing Stack Wastes to High Altitudes

It is difficult to control the emission of waste products from large stacks because of the large volume of material to be handled. However, if the waste gas is projected to relatively high altitudes, the problem is less severe in that pollution products are carried to regions of low pollution density. It is especially helpful to accomplish this high altitude dispersal during periods when the air is stable and pollution buildup is most severe. In this paper it is shown that dramatic improvements in the altitude to which stack wastes rise may be obtained by emitting the effluent in discrete vortex rings rather than in steady plumes or forced jets. The parameters of vortex rings required to reach given altitudes under given conditions are calculated. The flow at the stack required to give specific vortex ring parameters is also calculated. Some comments on the type of stack needed to create the desired flow are presented.