A Versatile Solution for Automated Liquid Filtration
In high-volume industrial processing, downtime for filter changes is a costly bottleneck. The Eaton F-Series Tubular Backwashing Filter eliminates this challenge by offering a fully automated, self-cleaning filtration system designed for continuous operation. As a distributor for top-tier filtration manufacturers, Purecowater provides the F-Series to facilities looking to lower life cycle costs and maximize productivity.
The F-Series is engineered for liquid filtering applications that require unattended operation, reliable uptime, and solids removal ranging from 1 to 1,700 microns. Its modular design is a standout feature, allowing facilities to expand capacity easily as production needs grow.
How the F-Series Works
The F-Series utilizes a bank of tubular filter elements. The system filters liquids continuously until a cleaning cycle is triggered (either by a timer or differential pressure). Unlike traditional bag filters that require manual replacement, the F-Series cleans itself while staying online.
The Backwashing Cycle
- Filtration Mode: Fluid enters the inlet header and is distributed evenly across the filter elements. Contaminants are captured inside the tubes while clean fluid passes through to the outlet.
- Cleaning Sequence: When backwashing is initiated, a single station is taken offline via the system’s proprietary valves.
- Reversed Flow: A portion of the clean process flow (or an external cleaning source) is reversed through that specific tube. This dislodges the debris, flushing it out through a drain header.
- Continuous Operation: Because only one tube is cleaned at a time, the remaining tubes continue to filter the full process flow, ensuring no interruption to downstream equipment.
For valuable or hazardous liquids, an External Backwashing configuration is available. This prevents the loss of process fluid by using a small amount of introduced cleaning liquid (like water) to purge the debris [eaton.com].
Key Features and Benefits
Modular Design for Future Expansion
The F-Series is built on a scalable framework. A system can be ordered with blank stations, allowing you to add more body tubes (increasing capacity) without buying a completely new skid. A single system can handle anywhere from 2 to 24 body tubes [videos.eaton.com].
Proprietary 3-Way Ball Valves
Eaton equips the F-Series with custom-designed 3-way, full-ported ball valves. These are designed specifically for filtration sequencing, offering positive sealing and high flow efficiency. They eliminate the need for complex external linkages often found in other backwashing systems [johnbrooks.ca].
Cleanable Media Options
By using permanent, cleanable media, the F-Series eliminates the cost of disposable bags and cartridges. Eaton offers three primary element technologies:
- Single Element: Standard surface area (2,348 cm²).
- TRI-CLUSTER®: Increased surface area (3,290 cm²).
- AccuFlux® 7: Maximized surface area (5,103 cm²), allowing for higher flow rates in the same footprint.
Technical Specifications
The following table outlines the capabilities of the standard F-Series units. These specifications highlight the system’s ability to handle high pressures and temperatures typical in industrial environments.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Micron Retention | 2 to 1,700 microns |
| Max Flow Rate | Up to 3,000 GPM (681 m³/h) |
| Operating Pressure | Up to 250 psi (17.2 bar) |
| Max Temperature | Up to 350°F (177°C) |
| Header Sizes | 3″ to 12″ (DN80 – DN300) |
| Backwash Effluent | < 2% of system volume |
Ideal Applications
The F-Series is widely used in pulp and paper mills, particularly for white water filtration to protect spray nozzles from clogging [eaton.com]. However, its versatility extends to many other industries:
- Water Treatment: City water lines, fresh water intake.
- Industrial Utility: Cooling tower water, chiller water, hot condensate.
- Process Fluids: CIP (Clean-in-Place) fluids, papermaking starch, pelletizer water.
- High Viscosity: Specialized single and duo units available for viscous fluids.
Why Choose the Eaton F-Series?
For facility managers, the decision often comes down to Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). While manual filters may be cheaper initially, the labor costs, downtime, and disposal fees for used filter bags accumulate quickly. The F-Series automates this process, providing a payback through reduced maintenance and increased process efficiency.
Whether you need a compact system for a tight mechanical room (using the inclined design option) or a high-capacity multi-tube skid, Purecowater can configure the F-Series to your exact requirements.
Ready to upgrade your filtration system?
Purecowater is your trusted partner for Eaton filtration solutions. We can help you size and select the right F-Series configuration for your plant.