Patent ID: 6039877
Filing Date: 2000-03-21
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
A method for cleaning a filter having a first chamber and a second chamber separated by a filtering membrane, the first chamber having an outlet and having an inlet connected to a treatment liquid source, and the second chamber having an outlet for the filtered treatment liquid, the method comprising the steps of:conveying treatment liquid from the source through the first chamber;recirculating during a recirculation mode, all treatment liquid from the outlet of the first chamber to the inlet of the first chamber so that all treatment liquid exiting the first chamber is fed-back through a feedback line into the first chamber;adding to the recirculating treatment liquid additional treatment liquid from the source;measuring a clogging level of the filter;comparing the measured clogging level with a predetermined clogging threshold;intermittently purging during a purge mode, the first chamber when the measured clogging level reaches the predetermined clogging threshold;measuring a frequency of purges of the first chamber;comparing the measured purge frequency with a purge frequency reference value; andincreasing flow speed of treatment liquid through the first compartment when the measured purge frequency exceeds the purge frequency reference value.