Automated baghouse troubleshooting diagnostics maximize efficiency

Automated baghouse troubleshooting systems assure optimized filtration efficiencies to minimize particulate emissions for a cleaner, safer, healthier and compliant workplace. This paper also reviews a secondary benefit that is often overlooked. These same technologies also reduce baghouse operating and maintenance costs converting a perceived EPA or OSHA expense into a real and relatively quick return on investment “ROI” project. Integrating particulate, pressure, temperature and other process sensors into a pulse-jet baghouse cleaning control program provides several real-world benefits. Early-warning diagnostic alarms that result save time and money and prevent escalating problems by immediately identifying: 1. Filter leaks by row 2. Failed solenoids by row 3. Leaking or problematic diaphragm valves by row 4. Low compressed air supply 5. Problematic differential pressure (DP) levels 6. High temperature levels 7. Other process conditions adversely impacting efficiency and safety. Diagnostic automated baghouse troubleshooting technology is installed in the cement industry demonstrating the following five specific areas of cost containment that are reviewed in this paper. 1. Increase runtime between bag failures 2. Minimize maintenance and associated labor costs 3. Reduce filter replacement and disposal costs 4. Decrease compressed air and energy consumption 5. Assure a cleaner, safer, more compliant and healthier workplace.