Since 1946, Eldridge has proudly served the marine industry with our expertise in industrial exhaust systems. Our decades of experience have exposed us to the most critical ventilation needs, particularly within demanding facilities like offshore rigs.
The challenges and insights we’ve gathered throughout the years drove us to push beyond the industry standards. We knew there was a better way to address the unique demands of offshore environments. That determination fueled the development of our patented ENJET technology.
Our ENJET system represents a culmination of our experience – a direct response to the ventilation issues that standard exhaust solutions simply can’t handle. This technology offers a powerful and reliable way to protect both people and equipment given the harsh conditions found on offshore oil rigs.
The ENJET is easy to install, requires little maintenance, and provides continuous ventilation for marine and heavy industrial applications. Contact our technical team at Eldridge now to get a quote for this heavy-duty industrial exhaust system.
Dangers of Exhaust Rollback
One persistent danger on offshore rigs is exhaust rollback. This occurs when exhaust gases from the rig’s engines are unable to disperse properly. Prevailing winds, platform design, or weather conditions can trap these gases, forcing them back towards the rig. The consequences of this can negatively affect both personnel and equipment.
Exhaust fumes contain dangerous toxins, and prolonged exposure can lead to headaches, nausea, respiratory problems, and even long-term health complications. These toxins may include:
- Carbon Monoxide (CO): This odorless, colorless gas is a major concern. CO readily binds to hemoglobin in the blood, displacing oxygen. This “oxygen starvation” can lead to headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. In severe cases, prolonged exposure can cause unconsciousness, coma, or even death.
- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): These gases come in various forms, including nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). While NO is relatively harmless, NO2 is a potent irritant that inflames the airways. Exposure to NOx can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and worsen existing respiratory conditions like asthma. Chronic exposure may also increase the risk of lung infections and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
- Particulate Matter (PM): These microscopic particles are a major component of exhaust fumes. PM comes in various sizes, with the most concerning being PM2.5, which is small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs. Inhaling PM can irritate the respiratory tract, triggering coughing, phlegm production, and difficulty breathing. Long-term exposure to PM has been linked to a variety of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer.
The exhaust may also create thick smoke that obscures critical work areas and increases the risk of accidents and injuries. These unsafe conditions can force work stoppages, slowing down operations and increasing costs.
Rollback can result in equipment damage over time. When the gases fail to disperse properly and roll back onto the rig, they condense on surfaces as a sticky, oily film. The coating residue left on metal equipment attracts dirt and dust, becoming a catalyst for corrosion. As corrosion progresses, it eats away at metal surfaces, creating pits and cracks on the surface, and causes moving parts to seize or bind. Beyond metal surfaces, this oily residue can cause electrical wiring insulation to become brittle and crack, and can degrade rubber and plastic components.
ENJET Systems – Powerful, High Velocity Exhaust
Traditional exhaust systems often fall short when faced with the challenging and unpredictable conditions of offshore oil rigs. A specialized, powerful industrial exhaust system is essential for safe and efficient operations. The ENJET technology provides a robust solution, specifically engineered to combat the dangers of exhaust rollback and optimize the rig environment.
- Dilution and Capture: ENJET systems employ specifically designed plenums, which draw in large volumes of ambient air and mix it with the engine exhaust. This dilution process significantly reduces the concentration of harmful fumes and particulate matter.
- High-Velocity Ejection: The diluted exhaust mixture is then forced through a discharge nozzle designed to create an exceptionally high-velocity exhaust stream. The powerful jet propels the exhaust gases away from the rig at speeds that overcome even strong winds and adverse weather conditions.
- Improved Engine Efficiency: ENJET systems offer more than simply pushing the problem away. Reducing exhaust back pressure allows the rig engines to operate more efficiently, improving fuel economy and power output.
- Customization and Optimization: Each ENJET system is designed to match the specific needs of the rig. Our technical team calculates exhaust volume, velocity requirements, and system configuration to achieve optimal results for each installation.
Optimize Your Operations and Safety
ENJET is a tried-and-tested technology, trusted by major offshore operators for its effectiveness and reliability. Today, hundreds of these systems are optimizing operations and improving worker safety on offshore rigs in almost every ocean. Experience the benefits of an ENJET solution, including:
- Worker Safety: Eliminate the dangers of exhaust rollback and create a safer work environment that protects the long-term health of personnel.
- Equipment Protection: Minimize the buildup of oily residues to prevent corrosion, extend equipment life, and reduce maintenance costs.
- Operational Efficiency: The cleaner environment, healthier workforce, and improved engine efficiency helps maximize rig productivity.
- Easy Integration: ENJET systems are designed for simple installation and minimal maintenance.
Expertise and Innovation – Industrial Exhaust System
For over 75 years, Eldridge has been the trusted name in industrial exhaust systems and ventilation solutions. Our team of experts partners with you to understand your unique challenges and provide customized systems that protect your people, equipment, and operations.
Don’t settle for hazards and inefficiencies – contact us today and get a quote for an optimized exhaust and ventilation solution.