StackCalc is a software I developed in my free time using VB.NET for calculating stack effects and estimate the dispersion of flue gas in the atmosphere, based on the Pasquill-Gifford Gaussian model. I created this tool to allow the simulation of various scenarios and to optimize the main dimensions of industrial chimneys in relation to pollutant dispersion.
Updates: 15/08/2026 – Version 1.2 has been officially released!
This version includes numerous improvements, most notably the addition of an interactive chart displaying ground-level pollutant dispersion. The chart can be controlled using the mouse, supporting zooming and panning.
In addition to the chart, several terms for calculating minor head losses have been added, primarily for various types of miter bends. There are also minor bug fixes throughout the code (such as adding missing Try/Catch blocks and fixing incorrect tags).
Features
StackCalc offers several features:
- Stack effect calculation: The software optimizes the diameter of the stack, starting from an initial diameter and a predefined height, calculating pressure losses of the stack and the natural draft generated.
- Gas dispersion: Using the Pasquill-Gifford Gaussian model, the software calculates the ground-level concentration profile of pollutants based on atmospheric conditions and air stability.
- Interactive Chart: Results are displayed in a dedicated window with an interactive, zoomable chart that can be copied to the clipboard.
- Results export: The simulation results can be exported in CSV format or directly in Microsoft Excel format for further analysis using external software.
User Interface
The software features an interface divided into the following main sections:
- Process Data: A section dedicated to entering data related to gas flows and pollutants.
- Stack and Ambient Data: Configuration of dimensions of the stack and selection of the environmental conditions.
- Options: Allows modification of calculation parameters.
- Results: Displays the simulation results with an interactive graph.
System Requirements
StackCalc is compatible with Windows 7 and later operating systems, requiring .NET 8.0 libraries. For optimal use, a screen resolution of 1920×1080 is recommended.
A 64-bit processor is required.
Download
- Click HERE to download the version with setup (NEW! 1.2)
- Or HERE for the portable version (NEW! 1.2).