Hållbarare filterbyten i industriella luftreningssystem - Utveckling av en återanvändbar filterkonstruktion för Absolent AB

Abstract

This thesis project was conducted in collaboration with Absolent AB and aimed to develop a new solution for the company’s inclined filter cartridges used in oil mist filtration units. In the current design, the filter cartridges are permanently riveted to a filter frame, requiring the entire assembly to be replaced when the filter reaches the end of its service life. This results in unnecessary material consumption, increased transportation costs, and greater environmental impact. The objective of the project was to develop a design that allows only the filter cartridge to be replaced while enabling the supporting filter frame to be reused. Based on identified customer needs and technical requirements, several concepts were developed and evaluated before a final concept was selected for further development. The proposed solution consists of a divisible filter frame equipped with hinges and a locking mechanism, allowing the structure to be opened and the filter cartridge to be replaced without replacing the entire filter assembly. The design maintains the required filter inclination while ensuring sufficient sealing against the existing gasket. CAD models and a physical prototype were used to verify the functionality of the concept. The results indicate that it is technically feasible to reuse the filter frame while replacing only the filter cartridge. The solution is expected to reduce material consumption, transportation volume, and associated costs, while being compatible with existing products with only minor modifications. However, further development and validation are required before the concept can be implemented in full-scale production.