Industrial Filters
Filtration is essential in many operations as it reduces or even eliminates the build up of harmful compounds that may clog equipment. The degree of filtration required can range from the removal of large particulates only to the precision removal of microscopic particles and bacteria necessary for pharmaceutical and potable water production. Other industries that utilize filtration in the manufacturing process on a daily basis include construction, automotive, metallurgy, wastewater treatment, food and chemical processing, agricultural, electronic, mining and pulp and paper. Industrial filters are likewise found in virtually every industrial and commercial facility, ensuring safe ventilation. This is especially important in chemical processing and machining shops where smoke, volatile organic compounds, metallic dust and other harmful residues are common byproducts. As the filters themselves may become clogged, regular maintenance is essential.
Beyond the designation as
air or
liquid filters, filtration products may be classified based on a number of additional qualities. Driving forces include gravity, centrifuge, vacuum and
pressure filters, which all move the materials to be processed in different manners. Pressure filters for example push, while vacuum filters pull. Process goal is also important. The solids removed from a process stream may be collected and recycled in a cake or completely disregarded, with the clarified gas or fluid being the main attraction to the filtration process. Cycles are likewise variable and can be continuous or batch operations, depending upon the need for constant or intermittent filtration and operation. The
filter media used also varies to include membrane, foam, chemical solvents, biodegrading microbes and electrically charged materials. This impacts the material construct of the industrial filters as well. Large filters in particular require housing or frames made of durable metals or thermoplastics such as aluminum, stainless steel, polyethylene and steel. These materials may also be used as the mesh or screen that traps particles, though additional options for this element include cotton and non-woven fabrics, nylon, polyurethane foam, fiberglass and more. The design and material composition of a filter plays an integral role in its capabilities. Considerations based on this include porosity, efficiency, filtration rate, filter location, stream viscosity and temperature, filter load capacity, maximum flow, absorption and pressure drop or the ability of the filter to function through continued use and blockages.
