Novel Backup Filter Device for Candle Filters-CeraMem Corporation, 12 Clematis Avenue, Waltham, MA 02453; 781-899-4495
Dr. Bruce A. Bishop, Principal Investigator
Mr. Robert L. Goldsmith, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-99ER82760
Amount: $750,000

Hot gas particulate removal is required for advanced coal conversion process systems to protect downstream equipment such as turbines, catalyst beds, and fuel cells. The currently preferred means of particulate removal is filtration with candle filters. However, candle filters have not shown the reliability necessary to be commercially viable. This project will develop a simple backup filter for candle filters, which will protect downstream equipment in case of candle failure. In Phase I, prototype filters were fabricated and tested under ambient conditions to select preferred pore size and geometry. Filters with preferred characteristics were subjected to tests at 1500° F and 150 psig and showed acceptable flow-through characteristics and rapid plugging on candle failure. In Phase II, full size filters will be developed with pore sizes tailored to meet particle retention needs for various process requirements for protection of downstream equipment. Filters will be tested more extensively under both ambient conditions for process performance at full scale and in hot gas tests in a lengthy (500-hr) life test.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The fail-safe filter being developed would be used in advanced coal conversion processes to protect downstream equipment in case of primary filter failure. Such protection is required for these processes to have a reliability factor acceptable to the utility industry and funding sources. Without such protection, advanced coal conversion processes will have limited acceptance.