Abstract: Effluent with entrained particles is drawn through a filter module (A) by an exhaust blower (B). The filter module includes an inertial separator (C) for providing an inertial separation of particles from the effluent air and a plurality of filter cartridges (D) which allow air to pass therethrough but not particles. A plenum E interconnects the filter cartridges with the exhaust blower to channel the filtered air from the filter module to the exhaust blower. A flow controller (F) controls the flow rate of air through each of the filter cartridges maintaining it substantially constant. The flow controller includes a flow rate sensor for sensing the flow rate through each filter cartridge and a butterfly damper blade for selectively restricting the plenum to maintain the flow rate substantially constant. A filter cartridge cleaner (G) is selectively actuated when the flow controller is unable to maintain a preselected minimum flow rate.

Abstract: Effluent with entrained particles is drawn through a filter module (A) by an exhaust blower (B). The filter module includes an inertial separator (C) for providing an inertial separation of particles from the effluent air and a plurality of filter cartridges (D) which allow air to pass therethrough but not particles. A plenum E interconnects the filter cartridges with the exhaust blower to channel the filtered air from the filter module to the exhaust blower. A flow controller (F) controls the flow rate of air through each of the filter cartridges maintaining it substantially constant. The flow controller includes a flow rate sensor for sensing the flow rate through each filter cartridge and a butterfly damper blade for selectively restricting the plenum to maintain the flow rate substantially constant. A filter cartridge cleaner (G) is selectively actuated when the flow controller is unable to maintain a preselected minimum flow rate.