Validating Filtration Efficiency of Nonwoven Air Filters through CFD Analysis

This paper presents a computational study utilizing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to assess and validate the dust filtration efficiency of nonwoven fabric-based air filters. The methodology involves the creation of a detailed 3D model of the filter structure including the filter fabric. The nonwoven fabric samples designed using polypropylene and polyester are analysed in this work. A high-quality mesh is generated to accurately capture the flow behaviour within the computational domain. Boundary conditions are meticulously defined to simulate realworld operating conditions, including inlet airflow velocity and outlet pressure. A microstructure filtration model is implemented to simulate the capture mechanisms of particles by the filter media. The CFD simulation is utilized with appropriate solver settings, and post-processing techniques are employed to analyse critical performance metrics such as pressure drop, airflow distribution, and particle capture efficiency. Validation of the computational model is conducted by comparing simulation results with experimental data, establishing the accuracy and reliability of the numerical approach. Very good agreement was found between the experimental and simulated filtration efficiency.