FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions — Flue Gas Treatment and APC Systems

Frequently asked questions about Studybel’s two areas of expertise: flue gas treatment (APC) — particulate removal, acid gases, NOx, spare parts, diagnostics and retrofits — and piping & process engineering, Studybel’s second core activity.

Last update: · Verified by Amaury Le Cocq, Expert Air Pollution Control, Developer in Studybel

Studybel and the group

Who is Studybel?

Studybel is an industrial engineering consulting firm founded in 1982 and part of the Boccard network. Based in Brussels, the company supports industrial clients in Belgium, France, and internationally in two areas of expertise: flue gas treatment (Air Quality Systems) and piping & process engineering.

Studybel provides services for new installations, modernizations, retrofits, and technical support for existing systems. To learn more about our journey, see our history.

What is the Boccard Group?

Boccard is an industrial systems integrator founded in 1918, operating primarily in the nuclear, energy, and heavy industry sectors, and committed to low-carbon energy solutions.

Within this group, Studybel brings its expertise in flue gas treatment, while Leroux & Lotz Technologies contributes its expertise in boilers, biomass, and steam cycles. These complementary strengths enable the group to tackle integrated projects, from combustion through to emissions treatment.

What is the role of Leroux & Lotz Technologies (LLT)?

LLT is a subsidiary of the Boccard Group specializing in industrial boilers, biomass, waste-to-energy, and steam cycles. LLT manages the interface between combustion, boilers, and steam cycles, while Studybel handles flue gas treatment.

This complementary expertise is particularly valuable for biomass, incineration, and heavy industry projects. For more information, visit the LLT website.

What does an Air Quality System (AQS) entail?

An Air Quality System refers to a comprehensive solution for treating industrial fumes and gases. It may combine dust removal, acid gas treatment, desulfurization, NOx reduction, adsorption, filtration, reagent injection, and emissions control, as well as the associated process interfaces.

Studybel provides services in new construction, retrofitting, modernization, optimization, and support. See our flue gas treatment solutions and APC troubleshooting and retrofitting services.

In which sectors do you operate?

Studybel operates in the fields of biomass, waste-to-energy, incineration, industrial boilers, energy, steelmaking, cement production, glass manufacturing, chemicals, refineries, pulp and paper, mining and minerals, non-ferrous metals, and heavy industry in general.

Our solutions are tailored to the fuel, process, flow rate, pollutants, operating constraints, and target performance. See our solutions.

Where do you operate geographically?

Studybel is based in Brussels and operates in Belgium, France, Europe, and internationally, depending on the project. Together with Boccard and its industrial partners, operations are possible in a variety of regions—Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, the Asia-Pacific region, and remote territories—depending on technical, contractual, and logistical conditions.

Contact us to assess feasibility at your site.

Do you work on both new and existing installations?

Yes. Studybel works on new and existing installations, retrofits, modernizations, expansions, and compliance upgrades. The scope of work may be limited to flue gas treatment or integrated into a larger project with LLT and Boccard, including furnaces, boilers, steam cycles, BOP, piping, interfaces, installation, and commissioning.

See our solutions or retrofits for existing systems.

Do you handle general dust removal or localized dust collection?

Studybel primarily focuses on the treatment of flue gases, industrial gases, and dust collected from a process. Certain issues related to ambient dust control may be analyzed when they are linked to the process.

However, Studybel does not design local exhaust systems or comprehensive industrial ventilation systems; specialized partners are brought in as needed. See our solutions.

Our Flue Gas Treatment Technologies

What dust collection technologies do you offer?

Studybel designs and modernizes dust collection solutions: Multi-Cyclone, electrostatic precipitators (ESP), baghouse filters, and hybrid configurations.

For electrostatic precipitators, our expertise covers Sigma plates, OPZEL plates, MIGI systems, rotating hammers, and single-phase, three-phase, or high-frequency transformer-rectifier (T/R) systems. For baghouse filters, Studybel specializes in pulse-jet and low-pressure high-volume systems. See our solutions.

Do you work in the field of flue gas treatment and desulfurization (DeSOx / FGD)?

Yes. Studybel designs, optimizes, or modernizes dry or semi-wet DeSOx/FGD systems for new or existing facilities. The pollutants involved include SO₂/SOx, HCl, and HF, which are treated with lime, bicarbonate, activated carbon, or suitable adsorbents.

The analysis covers the reagent, dosage, injection, contact time, temperature, humidity, potential recirculation, and integration with filtration. A combination with activated carbon is possible for mercury, dioxins, and furans. See the APC retrofit.

How do you reduce NOx (DeNOx, SCR/SNCR)?

Studybel specializes in SNCR and SCR DeNOx solutions. In SNCR systems, urea or ammonia is injected within the appropriate temperature range, with careful attention paid to the mixture, residence time, NOx efficiency, and ammonia slip.

In SCR systems, our work focuses on catalysts (1, 2, or 3 beds), pressure drops, aging, and phased replacement. Studybel can analyze performance, make recommendations, and arrange for the supply of catalysts sized for existing or new facilities. See our solutions and details on SCR/SNCR technical services.

Do you design reagent injection systems?

Yes. Studybel designs, optimizes, or modernizes injection systems for lime, bicarbonate, activated carbon, urea, ammonia, and other products. The analysis covers storage, dosing, pneumatic or mechanical transport, injection points, mixing, contact time, temperature, and humidity.

The goal is to maintain environmental performance while controlling OPEX, internal residues, pressure drops, and availability. See Retrofit & Optimization.

Do you design multi-technology systems?

Yes. Studybel can combine multiple technologies within a single process chain: mechanical or electrostatic dust removal, filtration, reagent injection, neutralization, adsorption, SNCR/SCR, thermal management, high voltage, instrumentation, and control systems.

The goal is a consistent, robust, and practical solution tailored to pollutants, operating expenses (OPEX), and availability. See our solutions.

Do you work on fans, ducts, and ventilation interfaces?

Yes. Studybel analyzes, designs, or modifies ducts, dampers, bypasses, connections, transitions, fans, and interfaces. The goal is to ensure proper smoke distribution, controlled pressure drop, and the absence of dead zones, deposits, or clogging downstream.

The study covers flow rates, velocities, temperature, distribution, layout, forces, expansion, compensators, and maintenance access. See the APC troubleshooting guide.

Do you perform work all the way to the chimney and the emission point?

Yes, up to the interface with the chimney or emission point, depending on the scope of the contract. The analysis covers terminal ducts, transitions, dampers, compensators, measurement taps, access points, platforms, pressure drops, temperature, condensation, corrosion, and flue gas velocity.

Measurement requirements are incorporated: measurement ports and accessibility are planned for campaigns conducted by accredited organizations. See our solutions.

Do you conduct aerodynamic or CFD studies?

Yes. Studybel conducts aerodynamic studies when gas distribution affects the ESP, baghouse, DeSOx, SCR, ducts, bypass, or stack. This includes velocity mapping, airflow profiles, pressure drops, dead zones, turbulence, recirculation, and deposits.

A CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) study is conducted as needed to understand airflow patterns and compare different scenarios: deflectors, distribution plates, flow straighteners, duct modifications, transitions, dampers, and interfaces. See the APC retrofit.

Can you aim for the BREF/BAT-AEL levels?

Studybel can design or scale a solution to achieve defined performance levels, including low levels associated with BREF/BAT-AEL, when process data, the contractual scope, reference conditions, and technical assumptions permit. The pollutants covered include dust, HCl, HF, SO₂, NOx, NH₃, Hg, heavy metals, PCDD/F, and dioxin-like PCBs.

For reference, here are some benchmark levels that have been discussed for certain projects:

PollutantIndicative level
Dust< 2 mg/Nm³
HCl< 2 mg/Nm³
HF< 1 mg/Nm³
SO₂5 mg/Nm³
NOx50 mg/Nm³
NH₃2 mg/Nm³
Hg< 5 µg/Nm³
Cd + Tl0.005 mg/Nm³
Other heavy metals0.01 mg/Nm³
PCDD/F< 0.01 ng I-TEQ/Nm³
PCDD/F + dioxin-like PCBs< 0.01 ng WHO-TEQ/Nm³

These values are for reference only: feasibility always depends on the process, reference conditions, scope, and technical assumptions specific to each project. Let's discuss your situation.

Hamon Research-Cottrell / Hamon Environmental Facilities

What is meant by a historic facility that is still in operation?

This is a flue gas treatment facility based on older technologies that are still in operation, notably equipment originally manufactured by Hamon Environmental or Hamon Research-Cottrell. Studybel ensures technical continuity based on the experience of its teams, their knowledge of the original designs, and the available technical information.

See our support page for Hamon Research-Cottrell / Hamon Environmental installations.

Who were Hamon Environmental and Hamon Research-Cottrell, and why is their support no longer available?

Hamon Research-Cottrell is a long-standing leader in industrial electrostatic dust removal; Hamon Environmental and Hamon Research-Cottrell have played a major role in industrial flue gas and exhaust gas treatment within the Hamon Group.

Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) support has been severely impacted by the restructuring and bankruptcy of the Hamon Group. Many operators still have Hamon Environmental or Hamon Research-Cottrell systems in operation without a clear point of contact for maintenance, parts, or upgrades.

Studybel draws on the teams and expertise developed through these activities to ensure technical continuity. See our dedicated support page.

In what capacity do you provide support for these systems, for which the original manufacturer no longer provides support?

Studybel draws on the teams and expertise from Hamon Environmental and Hamon Research-Cottrell, as well as its knowledge of the original designs, available technical information, and operational experience. Based on this, Studybel can conduct audits, troubleshoot issues, supply parts, modernize systems, or design tailored solutions.

This includes, in particular, systems originally manufactured by Hamon Environmental, Hamon Research-Cottrell, Hamon Rothemühle, and Hamon Walther, for which the manufacturer no longer provides support. See the dedicated support page and APC replacement parts.

Do you have expertise in Hamon Research-Cottrell electrostatic precipitators?

Yes. Studybel provides services for electrostatic precipitators originally manufactured by Hamon Research-Cottrell, Hamon Environmental, Hamon Rothemühle, and Hamon Walther, including electrodes, collector plates, shaking systems, insulators, T/R units, high-voltage circuits, flue gas distribution systems, hoppers, enclosures, chambers, and automation systems.

Our expertise covers Sigma and OPZEL designs, MIGI systems, and rotary hammers. See the dedicated support section.

Spare Parts and Obsolescence

Do you supply replacement parts for historic installations?

Yes—this is a key service offered by Studybel. Our after-sales service already supports numerous systems originally manufactured by Hamon Environmental, Hamon Research-Cottrell, Hamon Rothemühle, and Hamon Walther.

Depending on the situation, we supply original parts that are still available or functionally equivalent parts, designed to match the original design and maintain the same or improved performance. This includes components for ESP (electrodes, plates, rammers, insulators, T/R, high-voltage components, hoppers), bag filters, dosing systems, and filtration systems.

View APC replacement parts and support for Hamon Research-Cottrell / Hamon Environmental systems.

Do you guarantee that the parts are compatible?

Studybel analyzes compatibility before making any proposal: drawings, specifications, mechanical, electrical, and process interfaces, materials, temperature, corrosion, abrasion, maintenance, and operating conditions. When information is insufficient, an on-site inspection or survey is conducted.

The goal is a part that is compatible, installable, serviceable, and safe, and that maintains or improves performance. See APC replacement parts.

Do you do reverse engineering on vintage parts?

Yes, for certain components, when the drawings are unavailable or incomplete. A preliminary analysis is essential: dimensional survey, function, materials, mechanical, thermal, chemical, and electrical constraints, and interfaces.

This may include components of ESPs, bag filters, threshing equipment, hoppers, scrubber internals, supports, or dust conveyance systems, in accordance with applicable laws and responsibilities. See APC replacement parts.

Can you compile a list of critical parts?

Yes, for ESP, baghouse, DeSOx, DeNOx, reagent systems, hoppers, high-voltage systems, and automation. The analysis identifies wear parts, components critical to system availability, obsolete parts, parts with long lead times, and components specific to the original design.

The goal is to anticipate issues, reduce downtime, and prepare for planned outages. See the APC lifecycle and spare parts.

Do you address the issue of APC equipment obsolescence?

Yes. Obsolescence affects mechanical, electrical, and high-voltage components; automation systems; T/R systems; threshing; filtration; instrumentation; valves and actuators; and specific subassemblies. Studybel identifies critical components and offers compatible solutions, equivalent parts, modifications, or retrofits.

Studybel can ensure continuity between an existing system and a modernized version (automation, control, logic, T/R, threshing) to prevent any operational, maintenance, or compliance issues. See the APC lifecycle.

Life Cycle, Maintenance, and Availability

What is the difference between APC troubleshooting, retrofit, and lifecycle?

  • Troubleshooting — identifying and resolving a specific problem: emissions, pressure drop, clogging, corrosion, excessive consumption, electrical or hammering faults, or reduced availability.
  • Retrofit — to modify or modernize an existing system.
  • Lifecycle — a long-term approach: inspections, critical parts, obsolescence, downtime, compliance, and optimization.

See APC Troubleshooting & Retrofit and APC Lifecycle.

Can you implement a multi-year plan and extend the lifespan of a facility?

Yes, when the technical condition allows it. Studybel can support a multi-year plan—including inspections, critical components, obsolescence, shutdowns, emissions monitoring, reagent optimization, and performance monitoring—drawing on a Smart Performance/Smart Maintenance approach within the LLT/Boccard ecosystem, as appropriate.

Extending the service life relies on regular monitoring to identify deviations, anticipate failures, and keep equipment in good working order. Studybel can also provide a schedule for periodic monitoring of the APC installation to anticipate deviations and plan the necessary actions.

See the APC lifecycle.

Can you improve the availability of an APC system?

Yes. Studybel analyzes the causes of unplanned shutdowns, performance losses, and recurring defects: clogging, corrosion, vibration, pressure drop, obsolescence, critical components, automation systems, and operations and maintenance.

Possible actions include servicing critical components, improving maintainability, making adjustments, optimizing reagents, gas distribution, refurbishment, building up a parts inventory, and partial modernization. See the APC lifecycle and troubleshooting.

Can you conduct an inspection during a plant shutdown?

Yes, provided that access, safety, and preparation are ensured. An inspection of an electrostatic precipitator, a baghouse filter, or APC equipment assesses its actual condition: wear, corrosion, deformation, deposits, mechanical defects, leak tightness, and dust accumulation.

For ESP systems: plates, electrodes, rammers, insulators, busbars, high-voltage circuits, hoppers, enclosures, and gas distribution. For baghouse systems: bags, cages, pulse-jet systems, air ramps, chambers, hoppers, and seals. The goal is to produce prioritized recommendations and identify the necessary parts. See the APC lifecycle.

Can you prepare for a project or retrofit during a scheduled shutdown?

Yes. Studybel prepares for the project in advance: assessment of the existing system, scope, parts, interfaces, methods, access, safety, lifting, assembly, and scheduling. The goal is to minimize unforeseen issues, missing parts, delays, and extended downtime, ensuring a reliable return to service.

See the APC retrofit and replacement parts.

Diagnostics, Performance, and Common Issues

What should you do if an APC system is underperforming?

Studybel can conduct a technical audit, analyze operational data, inspect equipment, and identify root causes: high emissions, pressure drop, fouling, corrosion, poor flue gas distribution, excessive reagent consumption, or reduced availability.

Based on the assessment, Studybel offers repair, optimization, retrofitting, or modernization, which can be carried out in collaboration with the Boccard and LLT ecosystem. See Troubleshooting & Retrofitting.

Can you take action in the event of noncompliance or excessive emissions?

Yes. Studybel can perform a rapid assessment, analyze process measurements and data, identify probable causes, inspect critical equipment, and propose corrective actions: stabilization, adjustments, reagent dosing, targeted inspections, critical components, and a strategy for restoring compliance.

Official measurements are still conducted by accredited organizations; Studybel uses their results for technical analysis.

See the APC troubleshooting guide.

Can you reduce reagent consumption?

Yes. Studybel analyzes and optimizes the use of lime, bicarbonate, activated carbon, urea, and ammonia based on the pollutants and technologies involved: dosage, injection point, mixing, contact time, temperature, humidity, potential recirculation, and filtration.

The goal is to maintain output while reducing operating expenses, residue, pressure drops, clogging, and excessive consumption. See APC’s retrofit & optimization and lifecycle solutions.

Do you address issues related to corrosion, condensation, and temperature?

Yes. The analysis covers corrosion, condensation, dew point, cold spots, insulation, transient conditions, shutdowns/restarts, and deposits. Solutions include heating, insulation, changing materials (from carbon steel to stainless steel when warranted), modifying gas distribution, reducing dead zones or cold spots, and adjusting injection points.

The goal is to reduce corrosion, fouling, premature degradation, and downtime. See APC troubleshooting and lifecycle information.

Do you address issues related to the clogging of bag filters and dust buildup in electrostatic precipitators (ESP)?

Yes. In baghouse filters, clogging is often caused by humidity, condensation, low temperatures, an unsuitable filter medium, excessive use of chemicals, sticky dust, insufficient pulse-jet cleaning, or poor gas distribution.

In ESP systems, dust buildup or clumping on the plates, poor migration to the hoppers, or inadequate shaking prevent the dust from being dislodged. Studybel recommends taking action regarding dosing, cleaning, the filter media, gas distribution, heating, insulation, the hoppers, the shaking system, and the mechanical components. See the troubleshooting section.

Are you involved in emissions measurement and analysis?

Regulatory campaigns and official analyses must be conducted by approved organizations or accredited laboratories; Studybel, LLT, and Boccard do not serve as substitutes for them.

However, Studybel can analyze existing reports, recommend parameters and measurement points, suggest campaigns to be carried out, and interpret the results in light of process data (dust, NOx, SO₂, HCl, HF, NH₃, CO, Hg, heavy metals, TVOC, PCDD/F). See the APC troubleshooting guide.

Should an electrostatic precipitator be replaced with a baghouse filter?

Not always: bag filters aren't always superior. The choice depends on temperature, dust, incandescent particles, fire risk, performance goals, pressure drop, operating expenses (OPEX), maintenance, availability, energy costs, and downtime possibilities.

Several options are possible: refurbishing the ESP, partial modernization, adding a baghouse downstream, combining an ESP with a baghouse, using a Multi-Cyclone, or complete replacement. See the APC retrofit.

Is it possible to modernize an ESP without replacing it entirely?

Yes, if the condition of the housing, structure, and interfaces allows it. Studybel can replace or adapt collector plates, electrodes, clips, rammers, insulators, hoppers, gas distribution systems, T/R units, high-voltage circuits, and automation systems.

The goal is targeted modernization: limited CAPEX, reduced downtime, and restored or improved performance. See the APC retrofit and support for Hamon Research-Cottrell / Hamon Environmental facilities.

Do you offer a phased upgrade rather than a complete replacement?

Yes, when a complete replacement is not necessary, possible, or appropriate. Studybel prioritizes critical actions: refurbishment, parts, subassemblies, automation, performance, pressure drop, obsolescence, and availability.

A gradual retrofit is possible: combining existing technology with a new treatment stage, a pre-dust removal system, an additional filter, an acid gas treatment system, DeNOx, or reagent injection. The goal is to phase in CAPEX, minimize downtime, and retain high-performing components. See the APC retrofit and lifecycle.

Electrostatic Precipitators (ESP): Technical Maintenance

Do you work on the transformers and high-voltage power supplies of an ESP?

Yes. Studybel studies transformer-rectifiers (T/R), high-voltage power supplies, and related electrical equipment: single-phase and three-phase T/Rs, high-frequency power supplies, and modernized single-phase systems incorporating the latest control electronics.

The analysis covers cabinets, defects, electrical limitations, and interfaces, with regard to ESP performance, electrical stability, and compatibility with the existing design (automation systems, beating mechanisms, plates, and electrodes). See the dedicated support materials and spare parts.

Do you work on the threshing/beating systems of an ESP?

Yes—this is a core business activity: diagnostics, repairs, component replacement, optimization, and modernization. The shaking mechanism removes dust from the plates and electrodes and directs it into the hoppers; a malfunction leads to buildup, reduced efficiency, increased emissions, and downtime.

The analysis covers hammers, shafts, bearings, motors, transmissions, isolators, adjustments, and sequences. The technologies include rotating hammers, MIGI (Magnetic Impulse Gravity Impact) systems, and original Hamon Research-Cottrell configurations. See the dedicated support section.

Do you perform work on the collector plates and electrodes of an ESP?

Yes: inspection, replacement, repair, modification, and modernization. Collector plates and electrodes are essential for ionization and dust collection.

The analysis covers condition, alignment, deformation, corrosion, fouling, compatibility with shaking, electrical clearances, and mechanical interfaces. Designs covered include Sigma plates, OPZEL plates, and associated original Hamon Research-Cottrell electrodes. See APC replacement parts.

Do you perform work on the insulators and high-voltage circuits of an ESP?

Yes: diagnostics, replacement, repair, and modernization. The types covered include driven insulators, supports, bushings, anti-swing insulators, and suspension/return insulators, as well as busbars and insulated components of high-voltage distribution systems.

The scope ranges from the high-voltage terminal of the transformer to the field power supply: bushings, connections, busbars, supports, protective devices, and heating elements. The analysis addresses moisture, deposits, bypasses, electrical faults, and interfaces. See the dedicated support document.

Do you work on ESP hoppers and baghouse filters?

Yes, we work on ESP hoppers, baghouse hoppers, and other APC equipment designed to discharge collected dust. Common issues include clogging, arching, dust backflow, overloading, corrosion, and performance degradation.

The analysis covers geometry, heating, insulation, levels, valves, airlocks, screws, dust separators, conveyors, pneumatic or mechanical transport, and downstream interfaces. See APC troubleshooting and lifecycle.

Bag filters

Do you service existing baghouse filters?

Yes: audits, diagnostics, maintenance, components, optimization, and retrofits. This covers sleeves, cages, cleaning systems, pulse-jet valves, compressed air ramps, hoppers, chambers, seals, instrumentation, pressure drops, clogging, and gas distribution.

Studybel works primarily with pulse-jet and low-pressure, high-volume solutions. See our solutions and the APC retrofit.

What types of baghouse filter designs do you offer: pulse-jet, jet, or low-pressure high-volume?

Studybel designs and modernizes three families of baghouse filters depending on the intended application. The pulse-jet design is the most common: cleaning is performed using medium-pressure compressed air, typically between 2 and 4 bar. The reactor bag filter operates within the same cleaning pressure range but features a different gas distribution architecture—no longer just top-to-bottom, but also distributed laterally among the cells—to maximize the distribution of an injected reagent (lime, sodium bicarbonate, activated carbon....) and to increase the gas-reagent contact time; it is used for treating pollutants other than dust.

The low-pressure, high-volume (LPHV) system cleans at a pressure close to atmospheric pressure—around 1 bar—using a blower with a circular sleeve configuration. It offers a small footprint and significantly longer bag service life, with heights of up to 10 meters. However, this technology is not suitable for all applications and requires custom sizing. See our solutions and the APC retrofit.

Can you select or recommend any filter media?

Yes. The analysis takes into account temperature, humidity, dust, acidic gases, reagents, condensation, hydrolysis, abrasion, clogging, chemical attack, and incandescent particles.

The study focuses on fibers, surface treatments, membranes, basis weights, permeability, mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and compatibility with cleaning processes, to ensure stable filtration and a controlled service life for the filter sleeves. See the APC troubleshooting guide.

DeNOx (SCR / SNCR): Technical Maintenance

How do you manage the replacement and service life of SCR catalysts?

The service life of an SCR catalyst depends on poisoning (arsenic, lead, alkalis), fouling, loss of catalytic activity, and an increase in pressure drop over time. Studybel relies on a network of partner laboratories and specialists to perform catalytic activity analyses. Studybel interprets these results in-house, using them to develop a replacement strategy and provide operational and industrial recommendations on the best course of action: bed-by-bed replacement or complete replacement, depending on the diagnosis.

Once the replacement process begins, Studybel can size and arrange the supply of catalysts compatible with the existing geometry (pitch, composition) and assist with the logistical planning for the shutdown. See APC replacement parts and the APC lifecycle.

Do you service SNCR (urea/ammonia) injection systems?

Yes. Studybel designs, optimizes, or modernizes injection lances and nozzles, the distribution network, the dosing system, and the injection temperature window—which is generally higher in SNCR than in SCR and depends on the actual thermal profile of the facility. This implementation relies in particular on the knowledge of furnaces and boilers provided by the recognized expertise of Leroux & Lotz Technologies (LLT) within the Boccard ecosystem, to position the injection points within the appropriate temperature window.

The analysis focuses on the reactant/flue gas mixture—urea or ammonia, depending on the project—the available residence time, and the balance between NOx reduction efficiency and limiting ammonia slip. See the role of Leroux & Lotz Technologies (LLT) in the Boccard ecosystem.

How do you manage ammonia leaks and their downstream consequences?

A residual ammonia level (ammonia not consumed by the reaction) can lead to the formation of ammonium bisulfate, fouling of downstream heat exchangers, catalysts, or filters, corrosion, and a risk of noncompliance with NH₃ emission standards.

Ammonia slip is quantified based on reports from regulatory authorities or on continuous monitoring devices installed in the stack. Studybel interprets this data, analyzes the dosage, the injection point, the reagent-to-NOx stoichiometry, and the homogeneity of the mixture, and recommends corrective actions—dosage adjustment, optimization of the injection grid, aerodynamic studies—to reduce slip while maintaining NOx reduction efficiency. See aerodynamic and CFD studies.

Do you adjust the injection grid (AIG) and the reactant/exhaust gas mixture?

The injection grid (AIG) directly affects the homogeneity of the mixture between the reagent and the exhaust gases, and thus the NOx reduction performance and the level of ammonia slip. Studybel can analyze the actual distribution, identify areas of under- or over-dosing, and recommend modifications to the nozzles, lances, or distribution pattern.

A CFD study can be used to homogenize the mixture profile upstream of the SNCR reaction zone or the SCR catalytic beds. Studybel has in-house CFD capabilities and, for the most complex configurations, relies on a network of specialized companies. In all cases, Studybel defines the specifications and objectives of the study, then interprets the results to develop an action plan. See aerodynamic and CFD studies.

Can you retrofit an SCR or an SNCR onto an existing system?

Yes, subject to space constraints, the available temperature range within the existing thermal profile, and accessibility. Studybel analyzes feasibility: the presence of a compatible temperature zone, available space for the catalytic reactor or injection nozzles, interfaces with the boiler or economizer, additional pressure drops, and impact on draft. The analysis of boiler/economizer interfaces draws on the expertise of Leroux & Lotz Technologies (LLT) within the Boccard ecosystem.

Several scenarios are possible depending on the constraints: SNCR alone, SCR alone, a hybrid SNCR + SCR configuration to reduce the number of beds required, or SCR at the end of the line after dust removal. See “Gradual Modernization.”

Carbon Capture (CCUS)

Is Studybel part of a carbon capture initiative (CCUS)?

Yes. Beyond flue gas treatment and emissions compliance, the Studybel / Leroux & Lotz Technologies (LLT) ecosystem is developing a carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) solution as a natural extension of its core business along the combustion → boiler → flue gas treatment chain. This initiative is based on two complementary technological approaches currently under development: a cryogenic process, supported by an industrial partnership, and an amine-solvent process, developed in-house.

See the announcement in our news section and learn about Leroux & Lotz Technologies' (LLT) role in the Boccard ecosystem.

What is the partnership with Revcoo regarding cryogenic CO2 capture?

Leroux & Lotz Technologies (LLT), building on its core business in combustion and boilers and in collaboration with Studybel, has formed a partnership with Revcoo—made official at the Pollutec 2025 trade show — to offer turnkey decarbonization solutions combining LLT’s industrial expertise with Revcoo’s patented CarbonCloud® cryogenic technology. This alliance aims to position LLT and Studybel as European leaders in renewable thermal power plants that incorporate carbon capture.

CarbonCloud® relies on two simultaneous mechanisms: cryogenic direct-contact capture (CO2 from flue gases is converted into ice and then into high-purity liquid CO2) and thermal recycling, which reduces the process’s energy consumption. The liquefied CO2 is then transported at low cost to storage or utilization facilities. See the official announcement or the Revcoo website.

Are you also working on CO2 capture using amines?

Yes, as a complement to the cryogenic method. Studybel and Leroux & Lotz Technologies are developing a CO2 capture process using an amine solvent with membrane contact — a configuration that separates the solvent and the flue gas via a membrane rather than through direct contact, thereby limiting reagent losses and certain operational risks associated with conventional absorption columns. This development is part of the R&D programs at Leroux & Lotz Technologies, which has a proven track record in CO2 capture (the Jupiter 1000 demonstrator).

As this technology is currently in an active development phase, with pilot tests being conducted both internally and with external partners, please contact our teams to discuss its progress and its applicability to your facility. See Leroux & Lotz Technologies’ R&D and contact information.

Piping & Process Engineering

What services do you provide in piping and process engineering?

Studybel conducts preliminary and detailed design studies for industrial piping and processes: P&IDs, 3D modeling, isometric drawings, layout plans, supports, technical specifications, MTO/BOM, and support for procurement, fabrication, and installation.

Our services cover the chemical, energy, nuclear, steam cycle, and heavy industry sectors, supported by the expanded engineering capabilities of the Boccard engineering office. See Piping & Process Engineering.

Do you work with DESP/PED and ATEX?

Studybel provides support for requirements related to pressure equipment, piping (DESP/PED), and ATEX when the project requires it: studies, calculations, technical notes, and documentation needed for inspections.

Studybel does not replace official oversight, certification, or validation bodies.

See Piping & Process Engineering.

Do you work on existing, congested, or brownfield sites?

Yes, including sites that are currently in operation. Studybel can perform or utilize 3D laser scans to model the existing layout, integrate new equipment, verify interfaces, and reduce collisions.

This is particularly useful for retrofits, expansions, and forced shutdowns. See Piping & Process and APC Retrofit.

Do you use 3D models or laser scanning?

Yes. Studybel can create or utilize 3D models and laser scan data for existing, congested, or operational sites: clash detection, site layout, interdisciplinary coordination, assembly drawings, and minimizing unforeseen issues.

Applicable to brownfield projects, APC retrofits, and piping/process modifications. See Piping & Process Engineering.

Do you handle the manufacturing and assembly?

For flue gas treatment / AQS, Studybel can act as an integrated EPC contractor depending on the scope of the project: design, engineering, procurement, fabrication, installation, on-site integration, and commissioning, in collaboration with Boccard and LLT.

In the field of piping and process engineering, Studybel primarily acts as an engineering firm or technical partner, depending on the project. See our solutions and our piping and process engineering services.

Working with Studybel

How can we contact you, and what information should you provide?

For any inquiries (flue gas treatment, APC parts, audits, retrofits, modernization, or piping & process), please use the Contact page. Studybel is based in Brussels and operates in Belgium, France, and internationally.

To speed up the analysis, please provide the following information if possible: type of facility and original manufacturer, process and fuel, flow rate, temperature, pressure, humidity, gas composition, pollutants, and target performance levels; drawings and P&IDs; measurement reports; historical data; consumption rates; pressure drops, incidents, and shutdown or compliance deadlines.

Studybel can start with partial data and then request any additional information that is needed.

Do you offer an initial budget estimate or a preliminary design (APS) / detailed design (APD) phase?

Yes, through a preliminary study, an audit, a technical site visit, a conceptual design (APS) or detailed design (APD) phase, or a consulting assignment. These consulting services can be provided at a controlled cost, with a level of detail tailored to the available data and objectives.

The goal is to define the scope of the need, compare scenarios, identify constraints, establish a rough estimate, and prepare the decision. If the project is confirmed, Studybel can propose the recommended technical solution. See our solutions or contact us.

Do you provide support for commissioning and post-startup optimization?

Yes. Studybel can assist with cold and hot commissioning, process adjustments, reagent dosing, monitoring of emissions and pressure drops, equipment stabilization, performance testing, operator training, and recommendations for operation and maintenance.

See our solutions, troubleshooting, and retrofit options.

Do you train the operations and maintenance teams?

Yes, upon request, often during a startup, retrofit, audit, or optimization. Topics covered include the APC chain, ESP, baghouse, DeSOx, SCR/SNCR, reagents, operation, alarms, maintenance, and key performance indicators.

Studybel often recommends on-site supervision during the critical startup, fine-tuning, and stabilization phases. See the APC lifecycle.

Do you work with automation and APC control systems?

Yes, when it affects performance, availability, or compliance: operation of ESP test runs, agitation sequences, reagent dosing, injection logic, SCR/SNCR, process alarms, emissions measurements, interlocks, and communication with the DCS.

Studybel analyzes and defines recommendations and functional requirements, and, if necessary, coordinates interventions with specialized partners, in compliance with the site’s authorizations and HSE regulations. See APC troubleshooting.

Do you have a system that needs to be diagnosed, upgraded, or maintained?

Tell us about your system (original manufacturer, pollutants, performance, shutdown constraints): our teams will get back to you.

Contact Studybel