How Wet Scrubbers Work to Reduce Industrial Air Pollution in India
Introduction
India’s industrial sector is booming. However, this growth comes with an urgent challenge: rising air pollution. From chemical plants and steel mills to food processing units and textile factories, industries generate harmful emissions that impact air quality, human health, and regulatory compliance. To address this, wet scrubbers have emerged as a reliable and efficient solution for industrial air pollution control in India.
In this article, we explain how wet scrubbers work, their benefits, and why your business should consider implementing one.
What is a Wet Scrubbers?
A wet scrubber is an air pollution control device that removes pollutants from industrial exhaust by using a liquid—typically water or a chemical solution. Unlike dry filters, wet scrubbers “wash” the gases, making them highly effective in controlling both gaseous pollutants (such as SO₂, NH₃, and HCl) and particulate matter.
As a result, wet scrubbers are widely used across India in industries such as:
- Chemical manufacturing
- Power plants
- Fertilizer production
- Food and beverage processing
- Pharmaceuticals
- Textiles and dyeing units
How Does a Wet Scrubbers Work?
Let’s break down the process into five key stages:
1. Polluted Gas Inlet
First, exhaust gases from industrial processes are directed into the scrubber system.
2. Contact with Scrubbing Liquid
Next, the gases come into contact with the scrubbing liquid, usually via sprays, packed media, or a venturi section. This stage is crucial for pollutant removal.
3. Absorption and Particle Removal
Here’s where the real cleaning happens.
- Gaseous pollutants are absorbed into the liquid through chemical or physical interactions.
- Dust and fine particles are captured as they collide with the liquid droplets.
4. Clean Gas Outlet
After treatment, the cleaned gas exits the system. Often, a mist eliminator is used to remove any remaining droplets.
5. Wastewater Management
Finally, the scrubbing liquid—now containing the absorbed pollutants—is treated or safely disposed of, as per CPCB regulations
Types of Wet Scrubbers Used in Indian Industries
Different industries in India require different scrubbing technologies. Common types include:
Type of Scrubber | Best For | Industry Examples |
High particulate removal | Steel plants, Foundries | |
Acidic gas absorption | Chemical plants, Fertilizer units | |
General air cleaning | Food & beverage, Textiles | |
Multi-stage Scrubber | Dual pollutant control | Refineries, Pesticide units |
Advantages of Wet Scrubbers
✅ High removal efficiency – Up to 99% pollutant capture
✅ Handles hot gases – Suitable for exhaust up to 80–150°C
✅ Compact & customizable – Tailored designs for space-saving installation
✅ Complies with CPCB norms – A reliable path to pollution board approvals
In addition, they help industries improve workplace safety and public image.
CPCB & Pollution Control Compliance
Wet scrubbers help industries meet emission standards laid out by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs). They are effective for:
- Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂)
- Ammonia (NH₃)
- Hydrogen Chloride (HCl)
- Particulate Matter (PM10 / PM2.5)
- Other corrosive gases
Moreover, they help companies avoid penalties and shutdown notices.
Challenges and Solutions in the Indian Context
While wet scrubbers are highly effective, they are not without challenges. However, each of these can be managed with the right design and operational practices:
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| High water usage | Use recirculating systems to conserve water |
| Corrosion risk | Choose corrosion-resistant materials like SS316 or FRP |
| Effluent disposal | Include an integrated effluent treatment system |
Therefore, proper planning during design can minimize long-term operational costs.
Why Choose Caramet Technologies for Wet Scrubber Systems?
At Caramet Technologies Pvt Ltd, we offer custom-engineered wet scrubber systems that are built for Indian industries and Indian conditions. Our solutions are:
- Designed for 100% CPCB compliance
- Built with corrosion-resistant materials
- Backed by end-to-end service: Design, fabrication, supply, installation & commissioning
- Trusted by leading companies across automotive, chemical, and FMCG sectors
In short, we don’t just build equipment—we deliver peace of mind.
Need Help Choosing the Right Scrubber?
Let our experts help you design the most effective solution for your plant.
👉 Contact Caramet Technologies Pvt Ltd today
📍 Based in Mumbai | 🌐 www.carametindia.com
📞 Call: +91-8097573523 | 📧 Email: sales@carametindia.com