External Filter Spray Cleaning for In-Place Debris Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for cleaning external mounted filters, such as those on cooling towers, require manual labor and are inefficient, as they often involve demounting the filters or using rudimentary tools like brooms and leaf blowers, which are time-consuming and ineffective.
Innovation Solution
A system with angled spray nozzles and fluid conduits that secure to the intake structure above the filter, allowing for automated or manual cleaning without removing the filter, utilizing pressurized water or air to clear debris, and incorporating timer functionality, control valves, and fluid recovery systems for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual cleaning methods (brooms, leaf blowers) are used, then no additional equipment is required, but cleaning efficiency is low and significant manual labor is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cleaning system enables the filter to clean itself through automated spray nozzles that apply cleaning solution and air blowers that remove debris, eliminating the need for manual cleaning operations while maintaining effective filter maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical cleaning tools (brooms, leaf blowers) are replaced with an automated system using spray nozzles for liquid application and powered air blowers for debris removal, substituting human labor with mechanical automation
2Manufacturing precision
If filters are demounted for cleaning, then thorough cleaning can be achieved, but system downtime increases and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system applies cleaning solution and activates air blowers while the filter remains in place, performing the cleaning action before any potential disassembly would be needed, thus eliminating system downtime while achieving thorough cleaning through the spray and blow mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The filter cleaning function is integrated into the operational system, allowing the filter to be cleaned in-situ without requiring demounting, thereby maintaining system continuity while achieving effective cleaning through the automated spray and air blow system
3Reliability
If traditional cleaning tools are used, then equipment complexity is low, but cleaning effectiveness is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs spray nozzles connected to a fluid supply for applying cleaning solution and air blowers utilizing compressed air for debris removal, using pneumatic and hydraulic principles to achieve effective cleaning that traditional tools cannot accomplish
Solution Approach 2:
The filter cleaning function is integrated into the operational system, allowing the filter to be cleaned in-situ without requiring demounting, thereby maintaining system continuity while achieving effective cleaning through the automated spray and air blow system
Data Source
AI summary
A system for cleaning a filter mounted over an intake opening of an air handling unit. A conduit is secured to the unit and includes a plurality of spaced nozzles arrayed against the filter. A supply tube connects to the conduit for supplying pressurized fluid through the nozzles to clear debris from the mounted filter. The pressurized fluid includes either liquid (typically water) or compressed air provided from any source or supply reservoir. A pump is incorporated into the supply tube for pressurizing the fluid. A separate filter incorporated into the supply tube filters the pressurized fluid prior to delivery to spray issuing conduit. A processor/controller is provided in combination with an arrangement of control valves for providing timed sequenced washing of multiple filters. A collection basin is provided for recycling used liquid for re-delivery and re-use.