Hydrodynamic modelling of pleated cartridge filters

The primary aim of this study is to develop and validate a hydrodynamic model for the design of pleated cartridge filters. This software package is intended to develop into a cost effective, robust and reliable design tool to enable engineers to appraise the operation of a filter. Mathematical theories are still being developed in order to build sound software for coupled flows in geometrically complicated domains. This is mainly due to the little understanding of the mathematical theories in addressing interfacial constraints in coupled flows. A 2-D computer code has been developed to simulate both Newtonian and non-Newtonian flows in the filter. The model is based on a flow model described by the Stokes, Continuity and Darcy equations. These equations are solved by the weighted residuals finite element method. Two U–V–P schemes based on the Lagrange and Taylor–Hood elements are developed and tested on various coupled flow physical problems with the latter scheme proving to be capable of coping with complex geometries. The limitations of the Lagrange scheme are described. [Continues.]