Experts in Energy from Waste Residues
ACS has a wealth of experience in the analytical requirements of Energy from Waste (EfW) sites.
Whether your site is a moving grate mass burn facility, gasification, or small-scale pyrolysis plant covered by SWIP regulations, we have the expertise needed to discuss your requirements in full.
Our experience extends to the complete analysis and interpretation of analytical results for Incinerator Bottom Ash (IBA) and Anti-Pollution Control residues (APCr).
We can also offer advice on the requirements detailed in the ESA protocol or SWIP documentation tied to local authority and PPC requirements.
Energy from Waste Plant Services
If you’re an Energy from Waste plant operator, we can provide you with a full range of services, including:
Gasification and Pyrolysis
We can provide analysis of the following components:
Major Components – carbon dioxide, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, methane, ethane, nitrogen, oxygen.
Hydrocarbons (C2–C7) – ethene, propane, butane, pentane, hexane, benzene, toluene.
Syngas & Tar Sampling
We can arrange site visits to take regular samples of syngas and tar compounds.
Samples are taken within Tedlar bags to ensure there is no degradation, with analysis taking place within 48 hours of the sampling process.
From the analysis of these gas samples, the calorific value can then be calculated.
Incinerator Bottom Ash (IBA) Testing
IBA Testing is a process that helps ensure safe Energy from Waste operations. The tests reveal the overall condition of the residual material produced by an incinerator and are used to monitor the system’s health.
Without IBA testing, there would be no way to accurately measure potential pollutants that could be present in the ashes from burning combustible materials.
IBA Testing should be carried out regularly for several reasons:
- To ensure hazardous materials don't escape into the environment during combustion
- To assess any changes in the characteristics of ash over time
- To differentiate between hazardous and non-hazardous components in all samples collected
- To inform suitable disposal options, depending on sample composition
Regular testing also helps identify any potential problems in the system before they become too large or costly to solve.
Anti-Pollution Control residues (APCr) Testing
APCr Testing is an essential process for any facility that uses Energy from Waste. This type of testing ensures that the pollutants released from burning this energy are monitored and kept to a minimum.
It can be used to measure the amount of pollutants emitted into the air, water, and soil around the facility. Testing can also provide insights into where changes can be made to reduce emissions or increase efficiency.
Regularly performing APCr tests will ensure your facility is fully compliant with local regulations and operating safely.
Benefits of Energy from Waste Testing
Energy from Waste testing is beneficial for several reasons:
- Efficiency of energy production can be monitored and improved, reducing emissions and other negative environmental impacts
- Identifies any potential health risks that may be associated with certain types of energy production methods
- Helps ensure compliance with governmental regulations, maintaining safe and reliable operations
- Reduces costs through increased operational efficiency
- Ensures best practices are being followed and industry standards are being met or exceeded
- Contributes to a clean and efficient energy landscape
Energy Regulation
Ensuring your site is compliant with current Energy from Waste regulations is of paramount importance.
Several laws and regulations regulate Energy from Waste. These ensure that energy generated from this form of power is safe, reliable, clean, and efficient.
This includes considerations like but not limited to:
- Use of appropriate fuel sources
- Emissions control
- Disposal methods
- Monitoring systems
Our experienced lab technicians have the skills and expertise to prepare, test, and analyse your residue at our fully equipped UKAS accredited laboratory.
Please see below for a list of the services provided by ACS:
Geo-Environmental Consultancy
The ACS Geo-Environmental Consultancy Department has been operating as part of ACS for over 10 years.
On-Site Testing Services
ACS offers a comprehensive range of professional on-site testing, all carried out by our fully trained site technicians.
Aggregates and Soils Testing
From our main laboratory in Poole, Dorset, ACS provide quality testing and material consultancy for the construction and civil engineering industry.
Bituminous Testing
ACS carries out testing on new bituminous binder material and testing on hardened material for physical and chemical properties. Circa pre 1980’s Tar (Carcinogenic effects) was also used as a binder, ACS staff can sample and test materials to assess if Tar was used.
Concrete Testing
Concrete was the first service to be offered by ACS back in 1987. Since then, we have increased our scope to cover a wide range of UKAS Accredited testing methods on fresh and hardened concrete.
Mortar and Screed Testing
ACS can sample and test new and hardened mortar. Hardened mortar for mix proportions and constituents, new mortar for compressive and flexural strength.
Contamination and WAC Testing
At ACS we offer an efficient and reliable chemical analysis service for waste soils and construction materials using various test solids and leaching procedures specified by the Environment Agency.
Chemical Testing
The ACS chemical laboratory was established in 2007. It complements the physical materials testing service provided by ACS by offering a range of chemical analytical services.
Leachate and Water Analysis
Our purpose-built analytical laboratory enables ACS to provide a comprehensive sampling, monitoring and analysis service on a wide range of leachate and water samples.
Natural Stone Testing
Our newly refurbished stone testing laboratory has given us the opportunity to expand our testing scope. In addition, we have increased production and improved on our turnaround of samples.
Site Laboratory Services
Over the last 35 years, ACS have supplied custom fitted site laboratories with technicians to many construction sites and projects worldwide.
Persistent Organic Pollutants
Our experienced lab technicians can provide detailed and accurate analysis of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in almost any sample matrix in line with the Stockholm Convention.
Energy From Waste
Experts in Energy from Waste residues, ACS offers a full range of services, including gasification, pyrolysis, syngas and tar sampling, and analysis and interpretation of analytical results for IBA and APCr.
RoHS Compliance Testing
At ACS, we undertake rigorous RoHS compliance testing to identify and quantify any contaminants in your shredded waste, ensuring your product meets strict RoHS requirements.
Energy Supply, Generation & Regulation
Our highly skilled team provide industry-leading waste fuel testing services for RDF, SRF, MSW, and Solid Biomass, helping you save costs and meet compliance standards for total peace of mind.
Get in touch to see how we can save you time and costs with our trusted, rapid, and reliable Energy from Waste sampling and analysis service.