Monthly Archives: March 2017

Filters for Liquid Processing

liquid bag filtersSelecting the right filters can minimize process downtime, reduce maintenance and waste disposal costs, limit worker exposure to the fluids, and improve product quality. However, proper filter selection can vary amongs industrial applications, including water filtration, boilers and irrigation. When it comes to liquid processing, consider these two basic filters:

Bag Filters
Liquid bag filters operate by capturing solids inside the filter media “bag”, and tend to be low cost. They generally have lower surface areas than comparable cartridge systems. Due to their wide range of process conditions, they’re a great choice for a variety of applications, including paints, water treatment, food processing, pharmaceutical, and more.

Cartridge Filters
Cartridge filters are used for removing suspended solids for applications with lower flow rates, where exposure to the process liquid is not an issue. They are typically the same initial cost as bag filters, but contain a higher operational cost.

If operator and environmental exposure to the liquid is acceptable, and loss solids must be removed, both bag filters and cartridge filters are recommended. When selecting a filter for liquid processing, it’s important to ultimately consider the cost, flow requirements, and operator exposure risks.

Air Quality and the Pharmaceutical Industry

sterile air filtersEach facility has unique needs when it comes to air compression; and it’s not surprising that compressed air is held to a very high standard in the pharmaceutical industry, where cleanliness is especially critical. As the pharmaceutical industry has grown, also has its utilization of compressed air for breathing air, operation of equipment and instrument air. The primary challenges to air quality in this industry are:
Oil
Oil contamination found in compressed air originat
es from oil particles present in the immediate environment, as well as compressor fluids and lubricants. Other contributors are vehicle exhaust and industrial activity. Using oil-free compressors can limit this type of pollution.

Moisture
Moisture is another common contaminant, and can be harmful as it provides a breeding ground for bacteria. Moisture can also react with certain materials causing corrosion or rust, thus causing damage. In this case, coalescing filters should be used to remove water aerosols and liquid water.

Solid Particulates
Solid particulates can also pose a threat to the quality of compressed air. Dirt, pollen and other fine particles in the environment can build up in an air compressor and cause obstructions, negatively affecting performance.

Considering the wide range of uses for compressed air and sterile air filters in the pharmaceutical industry, it can be difficult to establish a standard. To determine the best equipment for your particular facility, contact an expert at Greenleaf Filtration.