Abstract: An electrostatic precipitator air cleaner including a number of precipitator cells having spaced parallel plates for collecting dirt particles, and a vertically disposed traversing pipe-like spray header containing a number of spray nozzles for directing a spray of wash or rinse fluid onto the collecting plates in order to remove collected particles. The header is traversed horizontally across the precipitator cells by means of a trolley supported by a rail-like guide member and reciprocated between a home position and an extended position by means of a rotating elongated helical drive screw cooperating with a gear-like follower attached to the trolley, such that the rotation of the screw produces linear motion of the header. The header is connected to a source of wash or rinse fluid by means of swivel connections and a flexible conduit.

Abstract: The foam cleaning system for an electrostatic precipitator includes a source of a suitable detergent and means for introducing it into a foamer, a source of supply water which is piped through a water pressure reducing valve if necessary and then through a pressure gauge and solenoid valve control and through a suitable filter into the foamer, and a supply of compressed air which passes by suitable conduit through an air pressure regulator and solenoid valve control into the foamer. The detergent, water and air are suitably combined in the foamer and discharged therefrom as a foam into a manifold which will carry the foam to the electrostatic precipitators to be cleaned. The foam is introduced into a space provided at the top of the precipitator above the ionizer and collecting cell plates, between the inlet and outlet filters, and between the side wall of the precipitator. A drain is provided adjacent the precipitator.