Regulations and new test procedures

In addition to technological innovations, current standards and regulations in the filtration industry were discussed. The forthcoming publication of VDI Guideline 3677 Part 2, which deals with fibre depth filters, was presented in detail. This new guideline provides a comprehensive classification and describes the manufacture and use of textile filter media in various applications. Particular emphasis is placed on the sustainability and technical performance of these filter types. Another focus was the introduction of new test methods for welding and laser fume collectors. In view of the increasing limit values for hazardous particles in the workplace, a new standard has been developed that requires a much stricter concentration of clean air. The new VDI 2262 stipulates that the workplace limit value must be undercut by a factor of 0.2 in order to increase occupational safety in metalworking companies. This new regulation represents a significant step forward in health protection.

New applications and filter technologies

A much-noticed lecture was dedicated to indoor air filtration and looked at the interactions between textile materials and air pollutants. Textile materials act as both a source and a sink for volatile organic compounds and can have a significant impact on indoor air quality. Research in this area is helping to develop new filter solutions for healthier indoor air. In the field of industrial dedusting, typical sources of error and optimisation potential were discussed. Mechanical stresses such as abrasion or thermal overloading of filters, which can lead to premature wear, are particularly problematic. Solutions such as optimised cleaning-in-place (CIP) processes and improved material selection can help to extend the service life of filter elements. Another highlight was the presentation of new technologies for flue gas cleaning. The membrane filter systems presented achieved a particle separation rate of over 99.99 % in a biomass incineration plant, which emphasises the need for new assessment methods for emissions. The current mass-based limit values often do not capture ultrafine particles precisely enough, which is why new measurement methods are required. An innovation for medical technology was also presented at the initial investigation stage. New polyvinylidene fluoride hollow fibres for dialysis filters could extend the duration of dialysis and reduce the need for medication. Investigations into the material composition and pore structure of these hollow fibres showed promising results for more efficient filtration in medical technology and offer a need for further research.