Filter element cleaning

[MADDERFIELD]

I am currently looking into the possibility of cleaning and re-using elements use to filter diesel fuel, the elements are made from Stainless Steel / Polyfibre material and filter particles down to 3 micron absolute size. Dimensions 78 mm x 430 mm length.
Has anyone been involved in studies into the effectiveness of using Ultrasonic Baths or other methods to achieve the returning filter medium to near new condition?
Advice on suitable cleaning solution would also be appreciated.

 

[rorschach]

If it were all SS then I'd suggest UT cleaning as a possible option depending on the geometry of the filter. But the addition of polyfiber makes that method impossible. You'll just move the dirt around in the polyfiber, it won't come out.

This idea is a non-starter.

 

[crjones]

I have tried cleaning filter elements before and found that not only as rorschach the dirt just moves I have experienced ruptures in the media rendering it useless.

 

[blfarrar]

If the fuel is going to be run through a diesel engine - the contamination & failure of the pumps & injectors will outway any savings made in re-using filters.

If the diesel fuel isnt going into a compression injection engine then maybe rig with a filter casing with revers flow may be a method.

Really depends on the application & use of diesel in the application - how critical this is.

Cleaning filters in any open bath regardless of solvent & agitaion method places contamination from the dirty side to the clean side.

Bruce L Farrar.
Works Engineering Manager
Marshalls Mono PLC.Brookfoot Works.
Halifax W.Yorks UK

 

[budt]

I would try running some clean solvent through the filters reverse flow to flush all the particles that were collected while filtering the fuel.

However, you must filter the fluid you use for flushing to a 1 micron cleanliness before pumping it through or you will just put the contamination on the inside so it can get to the injectors faster.

Better check the price of 1 micron filters to see how much you will be saving.


Bud Trinkel CFPE
HYDRA-PNEU CONSULTING, INC.
fluidpower1 @ hotmail.com

http://www.fluidpower1.us