Application of high efficiency metal fiber filters in ventilation systems of non-reactor nuclear facilities

Sand filters, Deep Bed Glass Fiber filters, and remotely replaceable High Efficiency Particulate Air filters have been successfully used for filtration of exhaust air from highly contaminated exhaust air streams. However, none of these technologies satisfy all requirements of an optimum filtration system design. The basic requirements of a nuclear filtration system are a high decontamination factor, low pressure drop, long operating life, sturdiness during normal operation, ability to withstand Design Basis Accidents, minimize generation of waste, minimum maintenance, high radiation resistance, ease of decontamination and decommissioning, and low life cycle cost. High Efficiency Metal Fiber filters are a new technology and provide a suitable alternative to the currently used nuclear air filtration technologies. This article investigates the advantages and disadvantages of the current air filtration technologies and compares them with those of the High Efficiency Metal Fiber filters. High Efficiency Metal Fiber Filters system design considerations for non-reactor nuclear facilities are also discussed in this article. The design considerations include, but are not limited to, physical configuration, space requirements, pressure drop, decontamination factors, dust holding capacity, in-place cleanability, cleaning procedures, in-place testing, and other support equipment. 2 refs., 4 figs