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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Chemical Stripping Filter Systems

I am an engineer taking a class in strategic marketing and am working on a class project to gather information about chemical paint stripping systems and their market. I have been told that there is a need in this industry for an effective way to filter the stripping systems during operation.

As I understand it, a lot of the baths out there now are loading up with paint solids and as a result are not very cost effective or environmentally friendly.

My question is to what extent is this true and what is currently being done about it? Any information you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Jamie Eckerman
- Holland, Michigan, USA
2000

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The nature of the stripped paint will do much to determine the design of the filter. Are the residues stringy, lumpy or gelatinous? Stringy or lumpy residues can be filtered with a disposable media filter utilizing paper media on a conveyor belt. As the paper blinds off, a level sensor senses a rise in solution on top of the paper and replenishes fresh media by indexing the belt.

Gelatinous residue can be removed by a drum type filter with a scraper blade, or perhaps some type of backwashable strainer.

Chuck Reichert

Charles R. Reichert CEF-SE
- Seattle, Washington
2000

Yes there is a need for a better system to filter paint stripping solutions especially those based on Benzyl Alcohol or nMP which remove the residues in fine particulate form. Filter presses do a job (at a price) but it is not always easy to get a dry enough cake. If anyone has a suitable system, please let me know. We should like to offer it in UK or Europe to complement our other systems.

Roland Stevenson
- UK
2000