© NOVATEC, Inc. 2013 All Rights Reserved
VL-VLP IM 4-12-2013
13
Vacuum Cleaning
of filter(s) exterior
is recommended
If compressed air
is used, blow down
through inside of to
outside.
VLP Cartridge
Filter
11.2- VLP Series - CARTRIDGE FILTER CLEANING:
VLP Series loaders are typically used for conveying free flowing powder materials. For this task,
they are equipped with higher capacity cartridge filters. The amount of dust within the conveyed
materials will determine the frequency of necessary manual filter cleaning.
NOTE: Although the blowback system of the loader will extend the operational life of the filter
media, it cannot be relied upon alone. Frequent checks of the filter accompanied by thorough
manual cleanings are required, in addition to cleanings during material changes to prevent cross
contamination.
CAUTION: Disconnect electrical power and compressed air supplies before any type of loader
maintenance.
The cartridge filter(s) may be removed for inspection and cleaning by unclamping the ring clamp
of the lid, directly below the motor. If necessary, unplug the control cable and disconnect the air
line. Carefully remove the motor lid and expose the cartridge filter mounting plate directly below
the lid. The cartridge filter mounting plate, with the cartridge filter(s) installed below it may now be
carefully removed for inspection and cleaning.
If only light cleaning of the cartridge filter(s) is required,
the filter(s) may remain installed onto the filter plate and
cleaned in place. However, full removal and thorough
cleaning of each cartridge is highly recommended.
Vacuum clean the outside of the filter(s) to remove collected resin debris,
dust and fines.
If compressed air is used, be sure to wear goggles and blow
from the inside of the filter(s) down through and out of
the filter media.
Never bang the filter(s) against a hard
surface to dis-lodge debris. Distortion of the media or
sealing ring(s) can result.
Once clean, thoroughly inspect the filter(s) for severe wear, holes, tears and
material abrasion. Any break in the filter media indicates the need for new
filter cartridge. Do not attempt to repair the media. Remember that the filter
protects the vacuum motor and holes or any kind of leakage through the filter can allow material
to pass into and through the motor, severely shortening the motor’s life, possibly creating a fire
hazard and sending material dust into the air around the loader. In addition, examine the sealing
ring around the top of each filter cartridge. This seal provides the vacuum seal between the
cartridge filter and the filter mounting plate and must be fully intact. Replace the cartridge if this
seal is not perfect.
NOTE: Polyester filter cartridges, supplied as standard with all NOVATEC VLP loaders are
washable to extend their life. Use only clean water, sprayed at medium pressure through the
media from the inside out to remove dust and debris. The cartridge must be thoroughly dried
before being put back into service. A commercial drying device may be used, or the cartridge can
be thoroughly drained of water and water droplets and left to dry for no less than 24 hours.