V-Bank Filter Probe for Pin-Hole Leak Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods cannot accurately scan test v-bank filters for pin-hole leaks, limiting their use in contamination control applications due to inefficiencies and increased costs associated with using deep pleated filters instead.
Innovation Solution
A probe designed to scan v-bank filters simultaneously across adjacent media packs, with a configuration that allows for uniform airflow sampling and detection of pin-hole leaks, enabling effective leak detection and filter efficiency measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional scan testing methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but the probe cannot be brought close enough to detect pin-hole leaks in v-bank filters
Solution Approach 1:
The probe design transitions from conventional linear approaches to a multi-dimensional configuration with angled arms and positioning mechanisms that enable access to the V-shaped pleat packages from multiple spatial dimensions, allowing the probe to reach measurement positions that were previously inaccessible
2Reliability
If deep pleated filters are used instead of v-bank filters, then validation requirements for scan testing are met, but air handling capacity decreases and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe serves as an intermediary that enables v-bank filters to meet validation requirements by providing a measurement interface that overcomes the geometric challenges of V-shaped pleats, allowing these high-performance filters to be used without requiring alternative deep pleated filter designs
3Reliability
If deep pleated filters are used instead of v-bank filters, then scan testing validation requirements are met, but the number of filters required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe acts as an intermediary measurement device that enables v-bank filters to satisfy validation requirements, eliminating the need to use multiple deep pleated filters as a workaround and thereby reducing the total quantity of filters required for a given application
4Productivity
If v-bank filters are used without accurate scan testing capability, then air handling capacity is maximized, but contamination control reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe serves as an intermediary that bridges the gap between v-bank filter design and validation requirements, enabling these high air-handling capacity filters to be reliably tested and certified for contamination control applications
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The probe effectively locates pin-hole leaks in v-bank filters, allowing for their use in applications where stringent validation requirements are met, reducing the need for deeper pleated filters and associated energy and filter costs.
Implementation Method 1
A probe designed to scan v-bank filters simultaneously across adjacent media packs, with a configuration that allows for uniform airflow sampling and detection of pin-hole leaks
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention generally related to a method and apparatus for scanning a v-bank filter. In one embodiment, an apparatus for scanning a v-bank filter includes a hollow body (102) having first and second ends (104, 108). An outlet (106), formed a the second end of the body, is adapted for coupling a testing device to an interior volume of the body. A plurality of holes (110) are formed through the body and are fluidly coupled to the interior volume. In another embodiment, a method for scanning a v-bank filter includes inserting a probe (100) having a plurality of sample ports into a filter adjacent a filter pack, and traversing the probe along the filter pack. In yet another embodiment, a method for scanning a v-bank filter includes scanning a slot of a v-bank filter with a probe, and collecting samples of gas passing through the filter and into the probe.