Filter Cloth Troubleshooting – Symptoms That You Need To Look For

Filter cloths are vital components in the majority of industrial filtration processes. They are used for wastewater treatment, chemical manufacturing, and the food production industry. However, damage to the filter cloth can result in costly downtime. Although the cloth is made with the best quality material, troubleshooting the filter cloth can sometimes hinder smooth operation. If you recognise the symptoms early, you can remove the issue and ensure optimal performance for the filter cloth.

Here are a few warning signs that should be closely monitored. They indicate that the filter cloth has been damaged beyond repair.

• Clogging or sealing of cloth pores: If the cloth’s pores are clogged and sealed, fluid will not pass through. This is typically caused by improper cleaning or the use of incompatible filter cloth. When fine particles are found stuck in the cloth, you must take immediate action and get the filter cloth cleaned. Excessive blinding will slow down the filtration rate and might result in complete blockage as well.
• Uneven cake formation: A properly functioning filter cloth should produce an even filter cake. However, if the cake formation is uneven or patchy, it indicates that the filter cloth has been damaged. Damaged cloth leads to inconsistent filtration and reduces the filter cloth’s efficiency.
• Premature clothing wear: Sometimes, filter cloths do not last the number of cycles for which they were designed. If you replace clothes frequently, this issue will not occur. Otherwise, premature wear and tear can damage the filter cloth.
• Increased cycle times: If the cloth slips out of the filter, the supportive structure is exposed. This causes leaks and reduces the efficiency of the filtration process. Cloth spillage may also result from incorrect tensioning or worn-out fasteners. These should be addressed immediately to prevent further damage.
• Foul odours and discolouration: If you notice foul odours or changes in the colour of the filtrate, it suggests that chemical reactions or microbial growth have occurred in the filter cloth. To prevent contamination, inspect the filter cloth and either replace or clean it for further use.
• Visible tears on the cloth: This is the most obvious sign that it’s time to change the filter cloth. Visible damage, such as leaks, tears, or holes in the cloth, indicates that it needs to be replaced immediately. If industries operate with damaged cloth, it will compromise both the filtration quality and the integrity of the equipment.
• Passing of solids: If you find solids passing through the cloth, then the cloth has been damaged or may not have been properly installed. The passing of solids is a symptom that there have been product issues, and the filter’s cloth should be changed immediately.
• Increased cycle times: If the filter process takes longer than the cycle time, it’s a sign that the entire process is being compromised, and the filter cloth may have been damaged as well. If the filter cloth is damaged, then it will impact the productivity as well.

Keeping these warning signs in check is essential. This will help users utilise the filter cloth effectively and enable industries to avoid costly disruptions. SAF Filter Pvt Ltd has been designing and manufacturing high-quality filter cloths that are widely used by various industries for diverse purposes.