Odour and VOC confining in large enclosures using air curtains

Abstract

Experiments were conducted on a two stream air-curtain prototype designed for VOC and odour confinement in a truck unloading area. The emphasis was placed on the air supply device. Measurements using tracer gas techniques were performed to assess the effectiveness of the system in terms of air tightness. Leakage flow rate was estimated for various feeding arrangements. Flow visualisations and particle image velocimetry measurements were carried out for a better understanding of the flow dynamics. Evidence was given of the improvements brought by the herein referred to, “double flux” configuration in comparison to traditional designs. After a brief description of the experimental facility and the basic principle underlying the approach developed, the main results are reported and discussed and recommendations are drawn. Considerations about where the effort will be directed in future works are provided.