Filter cleans itself

May 20, 2004
Keeping coolant clean is essential in reducing maintenance and damage to equipment.

But doing so usually involves replacing and disposing dirty filters. A new device from SMC Corp. of America, Indianapolis (www.smcusa.com), the FN1, employs a filter element constructed of a series of grooved filter plates and wave washers stacked one after the other and compressed together by a pneumatic cylinder. When the elements clog, a differential-pressure switch signals for backwash operation. This closes the filter's inlet valve and the pneumatic cylinder releases pressure, letting the filter stack expand. A reservoir valve opens and clean, pressurized fluid backwashes dirt and debris from the filter elements. A ball valve at the bottom of the unit opens to drain dirty fluid to a dust-removal filter tank. The operation can be synchronized with machine operation.

Flow capacity is either 400 or 800 liter/min, and a range of seals permits use with water, coolants, and petroleum and alkali solutions.

Sponsored Recommendations

June 27, 2025
Ensure workplace safety and compliance with our comprehensive Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Safety Training course. Learn critical procedures to prevent serious injuries.
June 27, 2025
Join our expert webinar to discover essential safety control measures and best practices for engineering a truly safe and compliant industrial environment.
June 25, 2025
An innovative aircraft with electric drives combines the best of both worlds. The cross between drone and helicopter could mean significantly faster and more efficient air emergency...
June 25, 2025
Effective when other materials fail, ceramics are particularly suitable for applications requiring wear and chemical resistance, sliding characteristics or biocompatibility. Discover...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!