secondary combustion

waste disposal

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

Secondary combustion is a crucial part of modern incinerator furnace operations for waste disposal. This process occurs after primary combustion, where waste is ignited and volatilized. In secondary combustion, any remaining unburned gases and particulates are oxidized. This step is vital for eliminating odors and reducing the amount of fly ash in the exhaust gases before they are released into the atmosphere.1

Modern incinerators are equipped with extensive emission control devices, such as baghouse filters and scrubbers, to manage these by-products. The heat generated from incineration can also be recovered and used to produce steam or electricity in waste-to-energy plants, making it an economically viable waste management option.12

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solid-waste management
Furnace operation
In secondary combustion, the remaining unburned gases and particulates are oxidized, eliminating odours and reducing the amount of fly ash in the exhaust. When the refuse is very moist, auxiliary gas or fuel oil is sometimes burned to start the primary combustion.
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In secondary combustion, the remaining unburned gases and particulates are oxidized, eliminating odours and reducing the amount of fly ash in the exhaust. When the refuse is very moist, auxiliary gas or fuel oil is sometimes burned to start the primary combustion.
Read More