The potential of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for efficient pulse-jet cleaning of fabric filters: Part 2 - characterization of a practical solution

Publisher FILTECH

G.V. Messa, D. Scaccabarozzi, C. Martina, Politecnico di Milano; C. Maggi*, L. Montanelli, CleanAir Europe S.r.l., Italy

The pulse jet method stands as a firmly established means for cleansing fabric filters. It leverages the mechanical force of a compressed air jet, generating a pressure wave that traverses the bag filter, dislodging
dust accumulation from its surface. Preceding this, an initial step entails employing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) techniques to simulate airflow. With the continuous advancements in computing power and
simulation software capabilities, CFD finds application across diverse engineering domains involving fluid dynamics. Notably, CFD offers extensive data distribution, relatively economical implementation, and the
virtual capacity to simulate any flow process irrespective of complexity or scale. However, a primary challenge highlighted in prior research lies in the considerable computational demands, encompassing both processing time and memory requirements. Particularly in scenarios involving turbulent flows, the fundamental fluid flow equations derived from mass, momentum, and energy conservation principles necessitate mathematical manipulation and subsequent numerical approximation for computational handling. This process yields coefficients, parameters, and closure equations, often empirical and poorly characterized, compelling users to make subjective decisions and introducing uncertainty into simulation outcomes. Consequently, the focal challenge for CFD practitioners lies not merely in solving equations, but rather in configuring settings such as sub-models and parameters—to ensure dependable numerical forecasts. To address this, a specific parameter set and sensitivity analysis have been conducted and found to be the most accurate possible tradeoff among time and cost.

This study highlights the potential of CFD in fabric filter pulse jet cleaning. While previous research has explored CFD's role in simulating this process, it has mainly been limited to pioneering or recent investigations
of the entire cleaning operation. In contrast, this study aims to evaluate CFD's practical effectiveness as an engineering tool, focusing on accuracy, robustness, and computational efficiency...

Published in: FILTECH 2024 Conference

Date of Conference: 12 November - 14 November 2024

DOI: -

Presenter's Affiliation: Cleanair europe srl

Publisher: FILTECH Exhibitions GmbH & Co. KG

Country: Italia

Electronic ISBN: 978-3-941655-20-1

Conference Location: Cologne, Germany

Keywords: Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Fabric Filter, Pulse-Jet Cleaning