Abstract: Particle traps are often used to reduce particulate emissions from internal combustion engines to acceptable levels. In order to maintain the particulate traps, they must be periodically regenerated in order to burn off the trapped particles. Strategies for efficiently regenerating the particle traps have been elusive. The present invention separates the exhaust flow into several flow paths. During regeneration, the flow paths are sequentially partially closed, and the particle traps in each of the flow paths are individually regenerated using electrically conductive filter elements. The present invention can be used to effectively filter particles from any combustion process, especially exhaust from internal combustion engines. The particle trap assembly achieves a relatively low pressure loss and efficient regeneration by supplying an oxidizer via a small cross-flow passage.

Abstract: Filter devices, suitable for rendering pathogenic microorganisms non-viable and capable of regeneration to serve as filter devices for applications such as diesel engines where combustible particulates are trapped, include at least one porous filter element which is capable of electrically resistive heating to a temperature such that pathogens are rendered non-viable, and/or to a regeneration temperature such that combustible particulates are destroyed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for separating dust from flue gases from combustion plants, especially solid fuel combustion plants, comprising at least one dust filter via which the flue gases are guided, and by means of which the dust from the flue gases can be filtered out as it passes through the dust filter. In order to produce a device which separates dust in a highly efficient manner and which can be operated in a highly reliable manner and be used to heat combustion air for the combustion plant, the at least one dust filter is embodied as a bulk material filter in whose bulk material heat from the flue gases can be collected when the bulk material is cross-flown by the flue gases and by means of whose bulk material heat collected from the flue gases when the combustion air of the combustion plant flows through the bulk material filter can be given off to said combustion air.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a filter cleaning device, in particular, diesel particulate filters. In one embodiment, the device comprises a source of high pressure fluid and means to transport the fluid to a nozzle or nozzles; an actuator for moving the nozzles; a controller with logic for instructing the actuator to automatically move the nozzle or nozzles across the surface of the filter; a collection device and suction device downstream of the filter; and ducting to transport the fluid between parts of the system. In one embodiment, a second collection device is used downstream of the suction device to provide additional particulate removal. There are three methods proposed for providing high pressure cleaning fluid to the filter face: 1) rotating the filter and rotating the jet about an axis outside of the filter; 2) moving a nozzle in two perpendicular directions (i.e., x-y); and 3) rotating a rectangular nozzle about the central axis of the filter.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for filtering contaminants from a pressurized fluid. First and second filter elements are arranged within a housing to receive a flow of pressurized fluid. Respective first and second portions of the flow are directed through the filter elements and impinge opposing sides of a piston member which is biased in a first position by a collapsible pressure responsive member, such as a buckling pin. So long as the differential pressure across the first filter element is below a selected threshold, the first portion of the flow passes through an outlet of the housing and the second portion of the flow is blocked. Once sufficient contaminants have been captured by the first filter element, however, the resulting increase in differential pressure causes a collapse of the pressure responsive member. This moves the piston to a second position and directs the second portion of the flow to the outlet.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for initiating regeneration in a particulate trap including the steps of locating self-mode-stirring microwave-absorbing material in the particulate trap in areas that particulates build up, generating microwaves, absorbing microwaves with the microwave-absorbing material, and controlling the microwaves to initiate a burn-off of particulates.

Abstract: A regeneration device of an exhaust gas purification filter that reduces the regeneration time of the filter. The regeneration device includes a plurality of first temperature detectors arranged in casings to detect the temperature in each casing and a second temperature detector for detecting the temperature of the exhaust gas. A processor is connected to the first temperature detectors and the second temperature detector. The processor compares the temperature of the exhaust gas and the temperature of at least one of the casings, opens the associated switch valve based on the comparison result, and preheats at least one of the filters with the exhaust gas. The heat of the exhaust gas suddenly increases the temperature of the filter from the initial temperature and reduces the filter regeneration time.

Abstract: A method of regenerating at least one diesel particle filter, in which exhaust gas is introduced through a supply line into the at least one diesel particle filter and is discharged from it through a discharge line, while heating of the exhaust gas flowing through the at least one diesel particle filter takes place, a closed circulating air circuit being created through which exhaust gas emerging from the at least one diesel particle filter may be introduced back into the latter.

Abstract: Described are filters containing free-activated carbon fibers or activated carbon fibers in the form of a composite used for filtering a variety of contaminants, including pathogens, from air. These filters can provide effective and efficient removal of contaminants from air, requiring only short contact time between the air being filtered and the filter itself, with only a minimum pressure drop across the filter. The characteristics of these filters allow for effective filtration with only thin filter layers being required. The process of filtering air utilizing these filters is also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing particulates from a gas stream is described comprising a filter (1) through which gas may be caused to flow, at least one first electrode (15) for producing an atmospheric glow discharge located near to but spaced apart from the filter, and at least one second counter electrode (19), the electrodes being connected to an AC voltage supply generating an AC voltage in a frequency within the range of 1 kHz to 200 kHz. A method of removal of particulates from a gas stream comprising causing the gas to flow through such an apparatus is also described.

Abstract: The invention relates to a filter assembly holding a filter medium provided with means to disinfect the filter medium. The invention further relates to a method to disinfect a filter medium by heating the filter medium under a water vapour and/or radical pressure.

Abstract: A regeneration system for an exhaust gas cleaning device disposed in an exhaust emission path of an internal combustion engine includes an exhaust gas cleaning honeycomb filter and a heating device for the filter, wherein the filter is a checkered SiC honeycomb filter having a given cell structure, and the heating device is a heater or a glow plug when using a fuel containing fuel additive.

Abstract: A soot filter for the exhaust gas of a diesel engine comprises a filter body and a glow plug for thermally regenerating the filter body. At least one glow rod has a contact part that is spring-mounted at the glow rod in an axially displaceable fashion. Its face side which is averted from the glow plug shaft, therefore, protrudes beyond the free end of the glow rod and is pressed onto the face of the filter body.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device and method for filter particulates contained in exhaust gas exhausted from a combustor in an effective manner. The particulate filtering device includes: a filter part disposed on a predetermined position of an exhaust passage to which particulates produced from a combustor are exhausted and having a predetermined volume in which the particulates are filtered; and a support part with which the filter may be of a predetermined shape.

Abstract: A parallel folded filter has good sealing properties between the folded filter web and the filter housing with the smallest possible amount of sealant. The filter is prepared with an elliptical filter blank, in which the rows (1) of fold lines (locations of predefined fold edges or imaginary fold edges) are at right angles to an axis (4) extending in the direction of the greatest longitudinal extension of the filter blank (2). The circumferential contour of the filter blank (2) is dimensioned such that it assumes a circular shape with the folds stood up (e.g., in a folded state). An adhesive bead (3) is applied along the circumferential contour. A ring-shaped filter housing accommodates the folded filter blank (2) such that a circumferential support surface is present for the adhesive bead (3).

Abstract: A method for decreasing the concentration of a chlorinated aromatic compound in the exhaust gas from a combustion furnace. The exhaust gas from the combustion furnace is passed through a bag filter. The concentration of the chlorinated aromatic compound in the exhaust gas is measured and the operating temperature of the bag filter is adjusted based on the measured concentration of the chlorinated aromatic compound in order to decrease the concentration of the chlorinated aromatic compound in the exhaust gas.

Abstract: A measuring arrangement is provided with a soot filter for use in flowing, soot particle-bearing gases, as well as a method for monitoring the operability of a soot filter arranged in an exhaust gas conduit, wherein at least one component stream of an exhaust gas stream flows through at least one molded element which is open-pored at least in the flow direction, and wherein the temperature of the molded element is measured with at least one temperature probe. In the measuring arrangement the soot filter is allocated at least one soot sensor, which has at least one molded element which is openpored at least in the flow direction, at least one electric heating element, and at least one temperature probe. The measuring arrangement and method make possible a monitoring of the operability of a soot filter in a reliable and direct manner.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved cold gas-dynamic spraying process utilizing a carrier gas and small-diameter particulates whereby the particulate-laden carrier gas is directed to a ceramic filter unit where the particulates are separated out and the particulate-free carrier gas is analyzed and returned to the spraying process or to other gas purification systems.

Abstract: Mixtures of gases, liquids or solutions are separated by contacting the mixtures with a substance-permeable material and applying a voltage to the substance-permeable material, thereby increasing the efficiency of separation techniques such as microfiltration or ultrafiltration.

Abstract: A process and device for local permeability evaluation and local regeneration of a particle filter consisting of several juxtaposed zones through which a flow of gas to be scrubbed is passed include the steps of and apparatus for measuring the temperature of the flow upstream from the filter, measuring the temperature in at least one of the zones forming the filter, evaluating the thermal inertia of at least one of the zones by relative measurement of the temperature or of the local resistance to the temperature upstream from the filter, deducing from this the local permeability of the filter and locally regenerating the filter.

Abstract: An exhaust gas purifier, having three or more filter units parallel, wherein if at least one filter unit fails during its generation, it is compensated by the cyclic operation of the maining filter units so that the total function of the exhaust gas purifier is practically maintained. Electric heaters 14 are provided for regenerating individual filter units 3, and valves 4 are placed either at the entrances or at the exits of the units 3. While filter units 3 with opened valves 4 trap particulates, at least one filter unit 3's valve 4 is closed to send an electric current into the heater 14 for regenerating the filter unit 3. If the detected current is beyond a predetermined range, the current supply is shut off with the valve 4 still kept closed, and another filter unit 3 is regenerated in the same manner.

Abstract: A method for removing particulate matter from an exhaust stream, in which the exhaust stream is passed through a particle trap assembly. The trap assembly includes a particle trap having a trap inlet, a filter region located downstream from the trap inlet, and an upstream portion located upstream from the filter region. The cross-sectional area of the upstream portion is preferably at least as great as the cross-sectional area of the filter region. The particle trap may be operably coupled directly to a source of an exhaust stream via a connector unit. The trap assembly may include a heating unit for heating at least a portion of the trap assembly, and a bellows-like connector unit.

Abstract: Two filters provided in an exhaust path of an internal combustion engine are used to simultaneously collect particulate in an exhaust gas and are alternately refreshed. When a refresh timing of the filters comes, a determination is made as to which of the filters has a larger accumulation amount. The plurality of filters are refreshed in an order from the filter determined as having the larger accumulation amount, and variation of accumulation amounts of particulate of the filters is corrected, so that both of the filters are refreshed within a tolerable temperature range.

Abstract: An air filter unit in which the generation of organic substances is restrained by controlling at least the amount of organic substances detected from a square test piece of 5.times.5 cm (25 cm.sup.2) of a filter medium so as to be 100 ng or less in the total amount of organic substances detected from the whole air filter unit at a temperature of 40.degree. C. before using. The air filter unit is assembled by housing a filter medium that has been bent in a waveform in a frame composed of 4 outer frame members and sealing the gap between the frame and the filter medium using a sealing compound. Organic substances adhering to the air filter unit are removed by blowing a cleaned air heated at 80.degree. C. against the air filter unit at a velocity of 50 ml/min for 60 minutes. Then, an air suction port and an air exhaust port of the air filter unit are sealed with a film (for example, a PET film) which keeps the unit from contacting with organic substances and from which organic substances are not generated.

Abstract: A filter frame and media capable of withstanding repeated heating to high temperatures in an oxidizing environment, and a method of cleaning the same for indefinite use in a method of operating industrial paint booths. Progressive density, heat resistant, and preferably metal media paint booth filters are provided for replacement of existing filters in industrial paint booths. The filters are structurally resistant to cyclic heating to high temperature in an oxidizing bake-off oven where the paint residue accumulated on the filters is reduced to ash. After cooling, the ash is removed, and the filters returned to service, and the cycle is repeated. The filter comprises a frame section and a mesh media section which has a plurality of mesh portions. The mesh portions are preferably arranged in a series M.sub.1, M.sub.n-1, M.sub.n, wherein n is a positive integer of 4 or more, that are sized with the free face area A.sub.

Abstract: In a purifier for removing particulates from an exhaust gas, a pressure difference, and a flow rate of the air supplied to the filter element is adjusted in such a manner that a difference between a pressure difference of an air across a substantially invariable air flow resistance before the air reaches a filter element collecting and storing the particulates therein and a reference pressure difference is a predetermined value, while heating the air.

Abstract: A device for purifying a workstream of contaminants and method of making. One device is made of an inorganic monolithic porous particulate filter and a continuous uninterrupted coating of activated carbon impregnated into the pores of the filter. Preferably the filter has inlet and outlet faces, and a multiplicity of cells separated by porous walls and extending longitudinally and mutually parallel therethrough from inlet to outlet end, a portion of the total number of cells being plugged at the inlet end face, and the remaining portion of the total number of cells being plugged at the outlet end face of the device. Another device can be made entirely of activated carbon having the multicellular structure. A workstream containing contaminants is passed through the device to cause retention of the contaminants. The device can have electrically conducting mechanism for conducting electric current therethrough for removal of the contaminants and regeneration of the device.

Abstract: A gas filtration system which includes a primary separator for removing a majority of a particulate material from a gas stream. The primary separator discharges a filtered gas stream which retains a portion of the particulate material. The filtered gas stream from the primary separator is delivered to a secondary particulate source which introduces additional particulate material into the filtered gas stream to produce a conditioned gas stream containing primary and secondary particulate material. The output of the secondary particulate source is delivered to a secondary filter which removes the primary and secondary particulate material from the conditioned gas stream to output the resulting gas stream, substantially void of particulate material. The conditioned gas stream contains a minimum amount of particulate material necessary to achieve optimal efficiency and operating life within the secondary separator.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for glass manufacture is described having batch preheating and reduced pollution emission. The apparatus includes two modules containing pelletized glass and/or cullet. One module functions as a pelletized glass preheater, and the other as a filter for removing pollution emissions from furnace exhaust gases. The modules are switchable, such that the preheating module can be converted to a filter module, and the filter module converted to a preheating module, thus allowing periodic cleaning and routine maintenance.

Abstract: A system and related method for cleaning a particulate filter medium. The filter medium is cleaned by the input of energy to burn off particulate matter collected thereon. The system can comprise a thermocouple for monitoring the temperature of the filter medium at a plurality of locations. There is an electronic control unit for determining the point having a maximum individual temperature and creating a control signal commensurate with the maximum temperature. The control unit can determine if the control signal exceeds a predetermined set point level and if so reduces the energy input. The control unit also determines if the control signal falls within a predetermined range, also referred to as a band width of acceptable values less than the set point level. If the signal falls within the band width, the control unit controls the energy input and varies it as appropriate in order to maintain the control signal within the band width.

Abstract: For regenerating an exhaust gas particulate collecting filter, there is provided an exhaust gas particulate purifying process in which damage to the filter caused by a thermal action can be prevented and further electric power can be saved when an electric current supply to an electric heater attached to the filter is controlled. In the filter container (4), an electric heater (21) is provided on an end surface of the filter on an upstream side with respect to a regenerating gas flow, or provided at a position close to the end surface. Also, a temperature sensor (22) for measuring a temperature of the filter is provided inside the filter or at a position close to an end surface of the filter opposite to the aforementioned end surface.

Abstract: A filter assembly for removing particulates from the exhaust gas of a diesel engine. The filter assembly includes a housing having an inlet pipe which may be coupled to the engine and an outlet pipe which may be open to the atmosphere, and a self-contained filtering mechanism disposed within the housing. An exhaust gas fluid path is defined from the inlet pipe through the self-contained filtering mechanism and out the outlet pipe. Each of the components of the self-contained filtering mechanism are highly resistant to high temperatures, so that the filtering mechanism may be electrically regenerated by heat, produced by a heater operatively associated with the filtering mechanism, which burns off accumulated, typically hydrocarbon, particulates.

Abstract: A device and method for maintaining a clean gas stream includes a particulate filter comprising of support tube made from a formed textile. The formed textile is constructed from a continuous filament inorganic yarn and is porous to allow gas and particulates therein to pass through the support tube. A filtering element is disposed about the support tube to trap particulates in the exhaust gas. The formed textile which defines the support tube is relatively flexible in its natural state. To act as a supporting structure, the formed textile is made less flexible by the application of an inorganic binder. The natural flexibility of the formed textile minimizes the damaging effects of mechanical and thermal shock, while the inorganic binder stiffens the formed textile and allows the support tube to support itself and the filtering element thereon.

Abstract: In a roll of electrically conductive filter materials (21-28) coiled together with spacers (31) to be (38) disposed in alternate relation to the filter materials, the filter materials (21-28) have a plurality of pairs of adjoining edges joined together to define openings for admitting gases into the roll, so that the filter materials (21-28) may collect particulates from the gases flowing therethrough. A central electrode (41) is connected in the center of the roll, while a cylindrical outer electrode (42) is connected about the outer periphery of the roll, so that upon application of an electric voltage thereacross, the two electrodes may supply an electric current to the filter materials (21-28) to heat them for regeneration.