shearfilter

A shearfilter is a type of filter used in various engineering and scientific applications to separate solid particles from a fluid. Unlike conventional filters that rely on a porous medium through which fluid passes, a shearfilter operates by utilizing a fluid shear force to move particles away from a permeable surface. The fluid enters the filter, and a high shear rate is generated at the interface between the fluid and the filtering element. This shear force, often created by rotating components or directed flow, causes particles to be swept along the surface rather than being trapped within it.

This design offers several advantages. It can prevent the buildup of a filter cake, which is a common problem in traditional filters that leads to reduced flow rates and requires frequent cleaning. By continuously removing particles from the filtering surface, shearfilters can maintain a more consistent flow and operate for longer periods without clogging. They are particularly effective for filtering fluids with high particle concentrations or viscous fluids that tend to blind conventional filters.

Applications of shearfilters can be found in industries such as wastewater treatment, where they can remove suspended solids. They are also used in chemical processing, food and beverage production for clarification, and in some biomedical applications for cell separation. The specific design and operating parameters of a shearfilter are tailored to the fluid properties and the size and concentration of the particles being removed.