WHAT IS AN RTO?

 

A Regenerative Thermal Oxidizer (RTO) is a piece of emissions control equipment that uses thermal oxidation to reduce air emissions from industrial operations. CLCM is installing an RTO at the St. Francis plant.

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HOW DOES AN RTO WORK?

 

Thermal oxidation is widely recognized as the most effective way to destroy odor-causing compounds. Throughout the United States, thermal oxidation is commonly used for a wide variety of processes. RTOs resolve odors by converting related compounds into water and usable heat.

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WHAT WILL BE DONE TO ADDRESS THE ODORS IN THE MEANTIME?

 

While awaiting RTO start up, we have worked towards minimizing odors – and will continue to do so – by maintaining strict compliance with our existing air permit and further adjusting production to reduce emissions. To date, we have also taken other steps to reduce smells, including raising the primary stack by 20 feet. We are aware these measures have not resolved all concerns and are committed to examining further strategies.

 

Although we hear the complaints that the odors emitted from our facility are unpleasant, all available test data and studies indicate that these odors do not represent a health threat. We will continue to monitor the data and review the latest studies to protect the health of our workers and neighbors.