The pressure drop of fibrous surface filters for gas Filtration: Modeling and experimental studies

Surface filters are extensively utilized for the control of particulate matter and air pollution, and predicting the pressure drop can offer theoretical guidance in the selection of operational parameters for fibrous surface filters. However, there is presently a dearth of efficient and user-friendly methods for predicting the pressure drop. This paper focuses on the accurate and convenient prediction of the pressure drop of fibrous surface filters for gas filtration. Firstly, an analytical model for pressure drop, including the blocked fiber layer and the dust cake, was developed by considering the characteristics of the filter media, dust properties, and loading conditions. The model was validated through laboratory experiments, and the relative error between the model values and experimental data remains within a 15% error. Furthermore, based on the model, the quantitative analysis of the relationship between the pressure drop of the fiber layer and the pressure drop of the dust cake, and the filtration parameter importance were conducted. The influence of filtration parameters on the pressure drop follows the order of filtration velocity, dust concentration, and dust particle size, which provides guidance for choosing the gas filtration operating conditions in the efficient and low-resistance operation of surface filters. Additionally, the model was validated through field test data collected with large-scale cartridge filters in bulk grain loading. The predicted values fit well with the field test results. Overall, this study provides a promising tool for predicting the pressure drop of fibrous surface filters.