Lamella Cleaning Problems
Making Pack Cleaning Effective
If the lamella pack is hard to clean, deposits persist and performance never fully recovers. The issues are usually access, deposit type or cleaning method.
Understanding the Problem
Effective cleaning depends on the pack being accessible and the method matching the deposit. Soft sludge responds to low-pressure washing; biofilm and scale need chemical cleaning.
Removable or hinged plate packs and adequate freeboard make cleaning far easier. Fixed, cramped packs force partial cleaning and recurring problems.
Match the cleaning agent to the deposit — alkaline for organics/biofilm, acid for mineral scale — and rinse thoroughly. Smooth stainless surfaces release deposits more readily than rough plastics.
Common Symptoms
- ›Deposits remain after cleaning
- ›Cleaning takes excessive time
- ›Poor access to the pack
- ›Performance not restored post-clean
Causes & Corrective Actions
Cause
Poor access to the pack
Corrective Action
Specify removable/hinged packs and adequate freeboard.
Cause
Wrong cleaning method for the deposit
Corrective Action
Use alkaline for organics, acid for scale; correct pressure.
Cause
Hardened / aged deposits
Corrective Action
Clean more frequently before deposits set.
Cause
Rough plate surfaces holding solids
Corrective Action
Use smooth SS 304/316L plates.
Prevention
Still seeing the problem?
Send us your operating data and effluent results. Our process engineers will diagnose the issue and recommend a corrective plan.