Blocked filters are a familiar source of downtime in processing plants, consuming valuable operator time and interrupting production.
“Increasingly, operators are replacing conventional static bag filters and strainers with self-cleaning filtration systems that maintain continuous operation and improving product consistency,” says Malcolm Frith, director of SC Filtration.
Unlike static filters, which require operators to stop production and manually clean screens or replace filter bags, Frith explains that a self-cleaning filter automatically removes accumulated solids from the filter surface. Rotating scrapers clean the filter media when a pre-set pressure differential is reached, transferring the collected solids to a discharge chamber without interrupting forward flow.
“One of the leading systems available is the Elfi Spiroclean self-cleaning filter,” says Frith. Manufactured in Italy, the hygienic stainless steel design is certified to hygienic standards and is available from SC Filtration down to 50 microns.
He says self-cleaning filters are proving particularly valuable in whey processing. By removing larger particles before the whey reaches the subsequent ultrafiltration plant, the UF has reduced membrane fouling and extended production runs.
“Cheese brine filtration is another good application, with the self-cleaning filter reducing particulate matter such as cheese fines and protein aggregates from the brine. The resultant cleaner brine indirectly lowers the overall bacteria load, and allows for a longer brine life,” he says.
Another application is caustic recovery, where the filter removes suspended solids from used cleaning solutions before reuse and automatic cleaning eliminates the need for operators to open housings containing hazardous chemicals, improving safety and productivity.
“For dairy plants routinely cleaning filter screens or replacing filter bags, a self-cleaning filter offers a practical upgrade. Reduced labour, uninterrupted production, lower maintenance requirements and improved hygiene combine to deliver a compelling return on investment.”
Sponsored content: For more information phone 0800 002304, email technical@selfcleaningfilters.co.nz or visit www.selfcleaningfilters.co.nz.
