Electric-arc furnace processing off rotary kiln. Collecting zinc oxide and lead in two Farr cartridge collectors, 250 cartridges each, at 50,000 acfm each, air-to-cloth ratio of 5.5:1. Temperature 350oF. Product is very hygroscopic and difficult to handle. Pulsing at 80 psi. Intermittent kiln use forces condensation through dew points.
Tried cellulose media, which did not work due to moisture problems. Had to move significant dilution air to lower gas temperature. Not cost efficient. Tried conventional aramid and lost draft at the kiln, creating explosion hazard. Also, product would not release from cartridges, which had to be removed prior to each test run, cleaned, and precoated.
Installed 250 GORE® filter cartridges constructed of GORE® membrane/aramid felt (Farr-style), which enabled plant to reduce pulse air, cut back dilution air, eliminate removal of hazardous material cartridges, and run production at full load, while running the collector with on-line cleaning. GORE® filter cartridges also enabled water injection to gas stream for gas cooling.
Pressure drop stabilized. Pilot plant technology has been proven and full production plant is currently in design, due largely to the success of the GORE® filter cartridges.
Not for use in food, drug, cosmetic or medical device manufacturing, processing, or packaging operations