Most operators know there is more to filtration than the actual filter cost. Shipping, installation and lost production during filter replacement can be obvious and easily accounted for. When it comes to the indirect impact of better filtration, such as the value of reducing fouling against the cost of higher pressure drop, making a full evaluation is not as straight forward.
More and more operators are requesting filter systems be optimized to increase power output, minimize maintenance requirements, reduce fuel costs and CO2 emissions, to maximize profitability.
Strategic Analysis and Planning
Camfil, with extensive R&D facilities and field data, has developed a reliable software, the Life Cycle Cost (LCC) tool, for operators to evaluate total cost of ownership. This eliminates the guess work related to the indirect cost of air inlet filters, thus highlighting the major impact they have on the bottom line of the operator.
It is used by our engineers when designing inlet systems but is also used to make recommendations to operators on the optimal filter combination, with the highest profitability for their specific site and operations.
What is an LCC?
An in-depth LCC analysis considers all relevant variables: the environment and the pollutants in the air; impact on filter pressure drop and life; the cost of the filter, including installation and disposal; the impact of the filter on compressor degradation and heat rate; the engine type; configuration; duty cycle; availability requirements; and economic value. Multiple scenarios and filter configurations can be compared easily for operators to select the optimal configuration and efficiency levels.
High efficiency filters in combination with low pressure drop results in low operating and maintenance requirements while ensuring high power output from the turbomachinery. Other important factors that influence how a filter performs include the media type, the quantity of media – or number of pleats, the filter shape and its construction.
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