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Technical Tip
Protecting Fabric Filter Bags During Startup

The first 24-48 hours of a filter bag’s operation can be the most critical in determining its overall
life expectancy. The new bag’s unprotected fabric is vulnerable to high velocity particulate
becoming embedded into the indices of the media. When this happens, trapped dust
accelerates the blinding process, increases the average drag/restriction coefficient, and
significantly shorten the bag’s life.

Flow rate permeability is an excellent way to measure the life stages and life expectancy of a
bag. Permeability for new bags is usually in the range of 25-60 CFM/ft-2. For seasoned bags, the
range is usually 5-10 CFM/ft-2. A blinded bag’s permeability may be less than 2 CFM/ft-2.
Considering this large disparity in flow rates, it’s easy to see how new bags/compartments are
able to receive a lot more gas/dust at a higher velocity than those that are old and blinded.

The key to preventing premature blinding is to follow three simple rules during startup.

1. Apply a compatible protective precoat material to the filter bags before starting the
process gas flow.

2. Limit the gas flow to the new bags/compartment; a flow level at or near the design
filtering velocity/air to cloth ratio is ideal.

3. Reduce or stop the cleaning energy until the dust cake builds up to a level that requires
cleaning.

Starting up a new bag is a critical operation that should not be taken lightly. Following the rules
outlined above greatly reduces the chances of premature bag damage. Putting in this effort and
attention now will pay dividends later in the form of a longer bag life, and energy/cost savings
from reduced operating differential pressure.

Neundorfer, Inc . 4590 Hamann Parkway, Willoughby, OH 44094

Phone: (440) 942-8990 Fax: (440) 942-6824 www.neundorfer.com