Sintered plastic filter

Types of Sintered Plastic Filters

Sintered plastic filters are porous filters made of powdered plastic that has been heated above its melting point and cooled to form a solid filtering medium. Sintered plastic filters are highly versatile and can be used in a variety of industries for several applications. Several types of filters can be classified based on their structure and flow direction.

• Earth Sintered Disc Filter: This consists of a horizontal rotating drum with an internal cloth filter that collects solids as filtrate travels through the filter. The used filter reefing mechanism often consists of a rake, arm, or spray gun. A liquid-solid separation can take place while the cloth moves around the drum. The particles are filtered from the liquors, which then enter the disc through an open inlet situated above the drum. After being collected, they leave the drum by a weir overflow, a filtration process that gives a clear effluent to re-enter the process.
• Cartridges and Housings: sintered plastic cartridge filters usually consist of a reinforced polyester filter. They can be used as inline or replacement filters in various setups. The cartridges may be covered with an additional layer for heat or chemical resistance, which will also allow them to be used in different applications.
• Bag Filters: Sintered bag filters offer a considerable surface area for filtration and can handle a high flow rate due to their bag shape. They are also suitable for the separation of solids and liquids and the recovery of valuable materials.
• Liquid Filtration: Sintered filters can eliminate more than 90% of contaminants and bacteria, enabling access to clean water. This kind of contamination removal is crucial for both individual health and community public health. In addition to protecting the membranes from dangerous species, bite sintered filters also serve as pretreatment. They can be exposed to various preanalytical processes, including flocculation and flotation, sedimentation, microfiltration, and centrifugation, depending on the critical nature of the samples.

Specification and maintenance of sintered plastic filters

The specifications of the sintered filter will vary depending on the type and application. The following are some common specifications:

• Materials: Sintered plastic filters are typically made of nylon and polystyrene. Other materials like Polypropylene (PP) or Polyester (PET) may also be used in certain applications.
• Absolute rating: Sintered filters are rated by their ability to capture specific particle sizes. They are usually assigned an 'absolute rating,' which refers to the size of particles that the filter will capture. For example, filters may be available with absolute ratings of 1, 5, 10, 20, or 50 microns.
• Pore size distribution: Sintered filters have a complex pore size distribution, including a large thru pore. The average diameter of these pores is usually within 5 to 25 microns; however, there is a high proportion of smaller pores.
• Dimensions: Sintered filters are available in a variety of sizes. Typical dimensions include length (e.g., 50 mm), outer diameter (e.g., 25 mm), inner diameter (e.g., 15 mm), and other measurements. Filters can also be custom-made with specified measurements.
• Flow rate: A sintered filter's flow rate depends on its size, pore size, and the pressure used for filtration. Typical flow rates for sintered filters range from 0.5 to 2 liters per minute (LPM) per square centimeter of filter area at 1 bar of pressure.
• Working temperature: Sintered filters can be used in a wide temperature range, usually from -40°C to 100°C. However, this depends on the type of filter and material.
• Warranty: Some sintered plastic filter suppliers or manufacturers provide a warranty. This means that they will repair or replace the filter if there are any defects or issues under normal use during the warranty period.

It is important to keep in mind that different types of sintered filters will have other specifications. Therefore, they will be suitable for diverse applications. When choosing the right filter it is essential to consider the material, pore size, dimension, temperature range, and other characteristics. This will ensure that it is appropriate for the intended use or application.

The maintenance of sintered filters is essential so that they can perform well and have a long lifespan. The following are some of the maintenance tips for these filters:

• Regular cleaning: Sintered plastic filters can be cleaned regularly to remove surface deposits and contaminants. Low-pressure backwashing is typically recommended as a cleaning method. During backwashing, the flow direction is reversed, and water is forced through the filter in the opposite direction. This process dislodges and flushes out the impurities trapped within the filter.
• Limit pressure drop: The pressure drop across the sintered filter should be monitored and maintained at an optimal level. When the pressure drop becomes too high, it indicates that the filter is becoming clogged with trapped particles.
• Chemical cleaning: If backwashing alone is not sufficient to remove the deposits, chemical cleaning may be employed. Mild acidic or alkaline cleaning agents can be used to dissolve the contaminants. Before chemical cleaning, it is essential to consult the filter manufacturer's guidelines. The chemicals should be non-corrosive and compatible with the filter material.
• Storage: In case the sintered filter needs to be stored for an extended period, it should be kept in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated space. The filter should be protected from dust, moisture, and other contaminants. When ready for use, it should be cleaned thoroughly.

Scenarios of sintered plastic filters

• Industrial liquid filtration

  Many industries create a lot of liquids as byproducts. Nonetheless, before discarding these liquids, companies must first filter them to throw out any solids. This is where sintered plastic filters come in. They can easily filter out solid particles found in industrial liquids, ensuring that only the liquid gets discarded, while the solid waste is collected and disposed of.

• Deep axial backwash filtration

  A sintered plastic filter is used in deep axial backwash filtration systems like the three-micron filter. Its design permits effective filtration of water as well as simultaneous backwashing for cleaning. This gives consistent water clarity and maintains filter performance.

• Biomedical applications

  In the biomedical field, sterility is of utmost importance. Sintered plastic filters are used to keep patients safe by allowing only air to pass through while trapping bacteria and other pathogens.

• Process air filtration

  In process air filtration, sintered filters help get rid of the gases and keep production lines working well. They get rid of contaminants like dust, metal shavings, and other tiny particles. Even while letting the clean air and the gases pass, they remain sturdy and block pollutants effectively.

• Fume extraction

  In the extraction of fumes, sintered plastic filters are helpful by capturing fumes and smoke from welding or any other such operations. By capturing harmful particles, they contribute to the health and safety of workers, thus ensuring that they remain safe and protected from hazardous fumes.

• Gas filtration

  In the case of gas filtration, these filters work as a safeguard for engines and other machinery. They obstruct the entrance of powdered materials, dirt, and water so that machines work well without any problems. Besides, sintered plastic filters are robust and provide excellent filtration, thus making them very effective in protecting industrial equipment from damage.

How to Choose Sintered Plastic Filters

Buyers should consider the following plastic filter cartridge sintered filter elements when purchasing.

• Raw Material Selection

  Choosing a suitable polymer material is essential for balance in strength, temperature resistance, and chemical resistance. Depending on the application requirements, the procurement can select materials like nylon, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), or polypropylene.

• Pore Size

  The pore size determines the filtration accuracy and flow rate. Select a pore size that matches the intended application. For example, a sintered plastic filter with fine pores can achieve high filtration accuracy but may have a lower flow rate.

• Filtration Area

  The filtration area affects the filtering capacity and maintenance frequency. A larger filtration area can improve the service life of the filter. However, it may increase the volume and weight of the filter.

• Mechanical Properties

  Consider the mechanical properties of sintered plastic filters, such as compressive strength and tensile strength. These properties determine the filter's ability to withstand pressure and its durability.

• Temperature and Pressure Ratings

  Sintered plastic filters operate under specific temperature and pressure conditions. Ensure that the chosen filter can withstand the operating conditions to prevent deformation or damage.

• Compatibility with Fluids

  Sintered plastic filters are used to filter various fluids. Ensure that the chosen filter is compatible with the specific fluid to prevent chemical reactions or degradation.

• Configurational Design

  Consider the configurational design of sintered plastic filters, such as cylindrical, disc, or cartridge designs. Select a configuration that fits the installation space and requirements.

• Cost and Performance

  Balance costs and performance. Consider factors such as performance, quality, and service life to select filters that offer value for money.

Sintered plastic filter FAQ

Q1: Do sintered plastic filters have OEM/ODM service?

A1: Generally, plastic filters will have OEM/ODM services. Such services allow customers to modify or adjust products according to their preferences. Customers can communicate with the manufacturer about their specific needs, such as filter size, shape, design, and packaging, among others.

Q2: Which industries commonly use plastic sintered filters?

A2: There are various industries that use plastic sintered filters. These include the chemical industry, food and beverage industry, pharmaceutical industry, water treatment, and agricultural industry, among others.

Q3: Can plastic sintered filters withstand high temperatures?

A3: Unfortunately, not all plastic sintered filters can withstand high temperatures. This is because different plastic materials have distinct properties. Some materials can handle high temperatures, while others can't. Nonetheless, manufacturers can sinter specific plastic materials to create filters that can withstand heat.