Analytical investigation of the cause of the clogging of the drainage fabric of a sludge electro-dehydration system (AA6)

ISSUE

As part of the development of a new electro-dewatering sludge system, the equipment manufacturer wanted to identify what type of filter media would provide the longest lifespan and filtration capacity when used as drainage fabric on the equipment. For this, the manufacturer had carried out several factory tests with drainage fabrics of different manufacture and composition and had managed to identify some draining fabrics with good potential. However, he was not able to understand the causes of degradation of the filtration properties of these drainage fabrics and how to extend their useful lifespan.


TECHNOLOGICAL CHALLENGE

Determine the causes of decrease in drainage capacity and lifespan of drainage fabrics Identify the most economical solutions to increase the lifespan of drainage fabrics.


RECOMMENDED SOLUTION

STS Canada proposed to carry out an analytical investigation on used drainage fabrics.

RESULTS

Following the analytical investigation carried out, STS Canada was able to identify the mechanics that caused the loss of filtration capacity and the useful lifespan of the drainage fabrics.


STS Canada was then able to identify the type of filter medium that is least likely to lose filtration capacity when used as a drainage fabric for this type of equipment. STS Canada has also been able to propose a new method of cleaning drainage fabrics that significantly increases the useful lifespan of fabrics.

EXPERTISE

Liquid processes
Solid liquid separation
Pressure filter

INDUSTRY

Aluminium smelters
Mine & Foundry

TASK PERFORMED

Analytical investigation
Filter media analysis
Filter media degradation mechanism identification

ESTIMATED COSTS

27000$

YEAR

2008