Filtration Performance Metrics of Expanded Perlite — Flow Rate, Turbidity & Cake Structure:
Filtration performance metrics describe how expanded perlite behaves as a filter aid, including flow rate, turbidity reduction, cake permeability, and compressibility. These parameters determine clarity, throughput, and operational efficiency in industrial filtration systems.
Filtration performance is determined by:
1.1 Flow Rate
Speed at which liquid passes through the filter cake.
1.2 Turbidity Reduction
Clarity improvement measured in NTU.
1.3 Cake Permeability
Resistance to flow through the perlite layer.
1.4 Cake Compressibility
Structural stability under pressure.
3.1 Standard Bench Tests
• Flow rate measurement
• Pressure drop analysis
• Turbidity meter readings
3.2 Cake Formation Tests
• Precoat thickness
• Body feed ratio
• Cake stability under pressure
3.3 Industrial Validation
• Pilot filtration
• Continuous flow systems
4.1 Particle Size Distribution
• Fine → clarity Coarse → flow
4.2 Bulk Density
• Higher density → higher permeability
4.3 Expansion Quality
• Uniform cells → stable cake
4.4 Ore Purity
• Low impurities → better clarity
5.1 Food & Beverage
• High clarity, low turbidity.
5.2 Pharmaceuticals
• High purity, consistent flow.
5.3 Chemicals
• Stable cake under pressure.
5.4 Wastewater
• High throughput.
• Glass chemistry
• Natural PSD
• Hydration history
Q: Does finer perlite always filter better?
Higher clarity, lower flow.
Q: Can filtration grades be customized?
Yes — via milling and screening.
Q: Why does filtration vary?
PSD and density differences.
