Separation devices for removing slag from gases produced by the combustion of pulverized coal

摘要

Embodiments of this invention include devices for removing particles, such as the fly ash from gaseous effluent produced by the combustion of pulverized coal, comprising arrays of ceramic rods that are contained within a housing having ingress and egress openings for the effluent. The rods are so oriented as to create tortuous paths for the effluent and thereby effectively render the rods in the aggregate into an impact separator. The rods are made from material which exhibits electrical resistance such that when the are sufficiently energized electrically, ash accumulated thereon liquefies or otherwise looses its adhesive strength, releasing such accumulations which then, by gravity and/or the drag forces of the gas stream separate from the rods for subsequent collection and removal.