Do industrial dust removal filter cages need cleaning?

1. Why is it necessary to clean the filter cage?

The filter cage (frame) supports the dust removal filter bags and prevents them from collapsing under negative pressure. The main reasons for cleaning it are as follows:
Ensuring effective bag cleaning (core reason):
Dust collectors rely on a pulse jet system for cleaning. If thick dust or sludge accumulates on the frame, it will hinder the normal expansion and agitation of the filter bags during cleaning, significantly reducing cleaning effectiveness.
Incomplete cleaning will cause the pressure differential between the inside and outside of the filter bags to continuously increase, increasing system resistance, fan load, and energy consumption.

Preventing abnormal wear of the filter bags:
One of the main purposes of cleaning the filter cage is inspection. If the frame has burrs, rust, welding slag, or deformation on the surface, it will constantly rub the filter bags like a file, causing premature damage.
Regular cleaning and inspection can detect these defects and allow for timely treatment (such as polishing or replacement), thereby protecting the expensive filter bags.

Maintaining Stable System Operation:
A clean frame ensures proper filter bag operation and maintains the system's design pressure differential, preventing insufficient suction due to excessive resistance, which could affect the collection efficiency of production equipment.

Extending the Life of the Filter Bags and Filter Cages:
Removing corrosive dust (such as acidic or alkaline dust) can slow corrosion of the frame (usually made of carbon steel or galvanized steel), extending its service life.

2. How to Properly Clean Industrial Dust Filter Cages?

This procedure is typically performed simultaneously with filter bag replacement or cleaning and requires professional assistance.

Standard Cleaning Procedure:
Safety and Disassembly:
Completely shut down the dust collection system, disconnect the power supply, and perform a safety lockout (tagout and lockout) procedure.
Allow the dust collector interior to fully cool and ventilate.
Carefully remove the dust-laden filter bag and frame from the ceiling panel.

Separation and Initial Cleaning:
Carefully remove the frame from the used filter bag. Note: This process generates a large amount of dust and should be performed in a well-ventilated environment or with dust removal equipment. Use compressed air to thoroughly blow the frame from the inside out and from top to bottom to remove most of the dust adhering to the surface.

Deep Cleaning:
Water Rinse: For general dust, a high-pressure water jet can be used.
Chemical Cleaning: If the dust contains oily or sticky components, soaking and scrubbing with a neutral or alkaline cleaning agent may be necessary to completely remove the oil.

Drying: After cleaning, the frame must be thoroughly dried to prevent residual moisture from rusting. It can be dried naturally or with compressed air.

Inspection and Repair (The Most Critical Step!):
After the frame is completely cleaned and dried, carefully inspect the following:
Rust: This is especially true for frames used to handle humid or corrosive gases.
Burrs and Weld Marks: Check by hand. If any are found, smooth them with sandpaper or a file.
Bends and Deformations: Deformed frames cannot be installed properly and will damage the new filter bags. Minor deformations can be corrected, but severe deformations require scrapping. Checking Verticality: Stand the cage on a flat surface and check for verticality.

Coating (if necessary):
For carbon steel cages used in corrosive environments, a silicone coating can be sprayed on after cleaning and drying to significantly improve corrosion resistance.

Proper Storage and Installation:
Cleaning and inspected cages should be stored in a dry, clean area.
When installing new filter bags, ensure the cage surface is smooth and undamaged, and be careful to avoid scratching the filter bags.

3. Cleaning Frequency Recommendations

The filter cage cleaning frequency should be synchronized with the replacement or cleaning frequency of the filter bags.
This is typically performed when the system differential pressure is persistently high, the cleaning effect is poor, or when an annual or quarterly overhaul is scheduled.