This technology allows complete combustion, reduces coal consumption by 20 percent and ensures sustainable development:- Dr Bilquees Ara
Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Dec 22:- In a groundbreaking move, brick kilns in Kashmir are adopting Zig Zag technology, significantly reducing adverse environmental impact, enhancing economic sustainability and ensures sustainable development as this innovative approach optimizes fuel combustion, leading to lower emissions and increased energy efficiency.
Dr Bilquees Ara, a senior scientist at Pollution Control Board Srinagar told that Zig Zag technology ensures a more controlled and efficient airflow, resulting in improved combustion of fuels like coal. “This not only reduces air pollution but also minimizes fuel consumption, offering a dual benefit of environmental conservation and cost savings for brick kiln operators.” She said.
“In Zig Zag technology bricks are arranged to allow hot air to travel in a Zig Zag path. The length of the zig zag air path is about three times than that of a straight line and this improves the heat transfer from flue gases to the bricks making operation more efficient,” Dr Ara added.
She further said that this technology results in better mixing of air and fuel thereby allowing completion combustion reducing coal consumption by about 20 percent.
Dr Bilquees said that this technology when operated according to Standard Operation Procedure (SOP), meets the existing emission standard that is 750 mg per cubic metre.
She added that by adopting the zigzag design also ensures uniform distribution of heat, increasing the share of Class I bricks to about 90 per cent. It also reduces emissions considerably.
“By reducing air leakages by using instrumentation and process control system, the combustion of fuel can be improved, thereby reducing the source of emission,” she further added.
Local communities are witnessing a positive shift as switching over to Zig Zag technology not only avoids deterioration of air quality but also creates employment opportunities through the installation and maintenance of these upgraded kilns.
Officials believe that this move towards sustainable practices aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and reduces smog formation. The ripple effect of these changes extends beyond the immediate region, setting an example for other areas to follow suit in the quest for a greener, more sustainable future.
“As Zig Zag technology continues to gain momentum in Kashmir’s brick kiln industry, it exemplifies the potential for technology to be a catalyst for positive environmental change, fostering a balance between economic development, ecological preservation and sustainable development,” They said.
