Web exclusive posted July 3, 2008 at 3:26 p.m. CST

Ethanol producers are constantly faced with stringent air quality regulations that must be addressed before a plant can be constructed. However, operating producers are becoming more mindful of internal pollutants such as dust that can cause asset degradation and health risks to employees.

That's why Jackson Center, Pa.-based Imperial Systems Inc. has created the Big Round Filter, a dry dust mitigation add-on to serve as a mitigation strategy. The filter works well in ethanol plants for several reasons, according to the company.

The filter has a self-contained cleaning system that doesn't require compressed air. It uses a reliable, easy-to-maintain rotating arm. The filter has two inlet options. The tangential inlet is amenable for heavier loading applications such as for a plant's receiving and grinding areas. The high entry inlet is ideal for lighter loading applications such as distillers dried grains load-out areas. Effective for filtering fine powders and dusts, the Big Round Filter has two sealed bearings and a direct-drive gear box for low maintenance. The units are fabricated into one piece, enabling relatively easy installation.

Imperial Systems' filter combines ease of operation and service with superior reliability and a three-year warranty, according to Imperial spokeswoman Tricia Craig.

To learn more about Imperial's filter system and services, visit http://www.isystemsweb.com/dust_collector_control_systems_home.htm.