Solico provided comprehensive composite structural engineering for two large glass fibre reinforced scrubbers commissioned by our client Christen & Laudon at an energy platform in Wallheim, Germany. These scrubbers are designed to filter and treat hot, chemically aggressive flue gases, requiring precise engineering to ensure durability, stability, and reliable performance under harsh operating conditions.
Both scrubbers were fabricated from glass fibre reinforced plastic (GRP) using an epoxy based vinylester resin, with a fire-retardant layer for added safety. This combination offers excellent resistance to corrosion and heat. The lightweight nature of GRP facilitated easier transportation and installation, with both scrubbers placed on the ground and connected on-site. Including internals and accounting for their filled operational condition, the scrubbers weight approximately 7,000 kg and 9,000 kg, respectively!
Structural Design
Solico's scope covered the structural verification of the design, including all connection details of the components and internals. Through advanced finite element method (FEM) simulations, we validated the scrubbers’ ability to withstand all relevant loads such as:
Special focus was placed on the filter connection between the two scrubbers. While Solico did not design the internal filter systems ourselves, we engineered the critical internal connection points where these components interface with the scrubber walls, an essential aspect of maintaining structural integrity under operational loads.
Verified by FEM Analysis
Our FEM simulations thoroughly assessed the following aspects, focusing on stiffness, strain, strength, and stability:
