ABSTRACT Collecting plate is the core component of the electrostatic precipitator. In order to explore the influences of the plates shape and electrode configuration on the particle precipitation process, numerical models of an ESP with seven different types of collecting plates were established and calculated. The simulation results showed that the shape of the collecting plate did have a great impact on the electric field, airflow particles movement. From the perspective of electric field characteristics, the space current density and electrostatic shielding effect in multielectrode ESPs varied with the shape of the plates under the same supply voltage. When using C-type plate, the shielding effect was minimal and the current density distribution of the plate was more uniform. When it comes to airflow distribution, small vortex structures were easily generated near the plates when the CW type, the rod-curtain and Z-type plates were used, leading to particle re-entrainments. In terms of collection efficiency, the C-type plate enjoyed the highest efficiency, while the ZT-type and corrugated plate were less efficient. Implications: The main source of air pollution is the flue gas released by fuel combustion. electrostatic precipitator plays an important role in pollutant discharge control and environmental protection. As the core component of the electrostatic precipitator, the form of the collecting plate exerts a serious impact on its dust removal performance. The study focuses on the analysis of the collecting plate shape on the electric field characteristics of electrostatic precipitators, flow distribution characteristics and the influence of the collecting efficiency. It is expected that through the research, some guidance will be provided with the electrode configuration selection and optimization of ESP.