Troubleshooting filter operation

Even the best designed and installed filtration system can suffer operational problems at times. These problems often show themselves as a poor or deteriorating performance of the filter, such as a reduced rate of filtration or a wetter than usual cake. In such circumstances the responsible engineer needs to establish the cause(s) and consequence(s) of the fault(s) and then devise and implement an appropriate remedy to ensure correct filter operation in the future. Troubleshooting tasks require timely intervention and rapid solution to minimise economic and operational consequences for the plant in which the filter is installed. 

By way of example Tables D. 1-D.6 present a troubleshooting guide to the problems that may be encountered during the operation of a diaphragm filter press descriptions of basic press operation are provided in Sections 1.4.2.5 and 6.1.4. Each potential phase in the filter cycle is considered in turn, and the effects of faults that either exist at the start of the cycle or develop during operation are related to the resultant operation of the press. It is intended that the reader can use the guidance presented to troubleshoot the operation of other filters and presses. 

Most analysts will be required to troubleshoot the chromatography system at some stage. Although chromatographic instruments are considerably more rugged now than they once were, components still have limited lifetimes and need to be replaced. As operator error can be the cause of a problem, it is important to understand the operation of the system in order to minimize downtime. The best approach to troubleshooting, however, is preventive maintenance the most important points to remember are filter, degas, and flush.71... 

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