Review of Fabric Filtration and Air-Pollution Control Applications

Fabric filtration, the proven engineering process for recovering air-borne industrial particulates, is remarkably effective for controlling air pollution. Since 1969 the total filter market has doubled, an upsurge attributable largely to this application. Government regulations have profound influence on this added filter market, especially since other control processes have been severely strained to meet emission limits as effectively or as economically. The successes attributable to baghouses in the air-management field are numerous and widespread. Nevertheless, significant limitations are evident, due mostly to restrictions in filtration know-how and in the properties of available media. Of greatest concern is the lack of an accurate understanding of basic engineering principles. Current research confirms that electrostatic effects play an important role in the collection process, making it possible for fabric filtration to evolve into a more predictable science. The ability of fabric filters to control particulate matter—even the hazardous fine particles—the expansion of this practice into other air-pollution control applications—notably for flyash collection—and the tightening of regulations indicate that the filter fiber and media market will expand significantly, the growth rate being enhanced by increasing user confidence, improved consistency, and better applications of materials.