Universal Upgrades GRU Filters

September 10, 2009

Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) Deer Haven Plant's two GE Frame 5 filter houses were in dire need of an upgrade, for both performance and maintenance purposes. In use since the 1970's, GRU's automatic roll filters and filter houses had deteriorated and rusted beyond use. GRU called upon Universal to provide a turn-key filter system. Universal was selected not only on account of their expertise in inlet filtration and exhaust stacks, but also because they had partnered with GRU on several previous projects, fulfilling their acoustic and emissions needs time after time, in a quality, cost effective and timely manner.

Universal removed the outdated and difficult to maintain automatic roll filters, and installed high quality, removable synthetic media filters. These new filter types are not only easier to install, they also require less maintenance over the life of the product and are readily available from Universal. Additionally, they offer the same efficiency as the previous rolling filters, but can also be upgraded if Gainesville Regional Utilities requires increased filtration.

Project Included Custom Design for Replacing Filters

Universal was also able to fulfill a unique request for the GRU plant. Technicians at the plant did not want to be required to physically enter the housing to replace filters, lest they risk contaminating the inside. Therefore, Universal provided a new design that allowed technicians to replace the filters behind the protective louvers from the outside. The removable louvers were provided in a composite material instead of the traditional metal variety. This solution offers a rust-free exterior and low weight to greatly reduce maintenance time and costs. Universal utilized its vast expertise in all areas of filtration and noise control to supply a simplified and effective solution for GRU.

With experience building entire systems across the globe, Universal has the right solutions for any acoustic, filtration and emission problem. Since 1959, OEMs, packagers and end-users have relied on Universal's standard and custom-engineered products for effective solutions in the industrial process, power generation, marine, oil & gas, locomotive and waste water markets. Commercial offices are located in the USA, UK, Singapore, China and Germany. For further information on Universal and its products, call 1-888-300-4272 or e-mail info@universalsilencer.com.

Figure 1: One of GRU's frame 5 housing before refurbishment.

Figure 2: The filter housing after Universal Silencer's renovation.