Reducing atmospheric pollution by automatic processing of leaking filter

Abstract

Automatically operable protection is afforded to eliminate pollution to the atmosphere caused by failure of fabric filter bags in a filter network. This is achieved by increases after bag failure in aerodynamic flow volume of fluid in the flow path to the individual filter bags past a closure valve structure. Critical and rapid response is achieved by an aerodynamic substantially flat plate member pivotably mounted off center to initiate movement toward a closure position. A counterweight on the smaller area side moving toward closure assures closure of the flow path. The valve may be latched close, and may telemeter closure to a central location visible to an operator. For reverse jet type systems the valve is mounted in a fluid output flow path from the filter bags in a location where the reverse jet flow does not pass through the valve. Consistent operation of a plurality of networked valves is assured by locating them in flow path positions having little turbulence. The valve structure may be retrofit by mounting of a thimble at an inlet mouth to the bags, which further serves to limit turbulence at the cuff area of the bags that tends to abrasively wear the bags and cause early failure.