R+F FilterElements GmbH — Pile Cloth Filtration Technology
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Installation Guide

Pile Cloth Filter Media Handling & Installation Guide

Practical instructions for proper handling of pile cloth filter segments — from delivery through storage to installation.

Table of Contents

  1. 1. Delivery & Incoming Inspection
  2. 2. Proper Storage
  3. 3. Pre-Installation Preparation
  4. 4. Step-by-Step Installation
  5. 5. Initial Commissioning
  6. 6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Delivery & Incoming Inspection

Pile cloth filter segments are individually packaged by R+F FilterElements and delivered on pallets. Upon receipt, check the following points:

  • Inspect packaging for visible transport damage
  • Verify delivery note against order quantity and part numbers
  • Spot-check segments for damage to pile fibers
  • Document batch number for full traceability
  • Report any claims within 48 hours of delivery

2. Proper Storage

Correct storage protects the pile fibers and ensures optimal filtration performance when installed later.

Temperature

Store dry at 5–35°C (40–95°F). Avoid direct sunlight and UV exposure.

Position

Store segments flat or standing upright. Never stack or fold.

Packaging

Keep in original packaging until installation. Protects from dust and moisture.

Duration

Storage up to 24 months possible with proper conditions. Note batch number.

3. Pre-Installation Preparation

Before installing pile cloth segments, the following preparations are essential:

  • Clean the filter machine — remove all old media residue, deposits and biofilm from the carrier frame
  • Check fastening system — inspect hook-and-loop strips, clamping bars or tension bands for function
  • Test backwash system — check suction nozzles for wear and unobstructed flow
  • Inspect filter frame for mechanical damage (deformation, corrosion)
  • Documentation — note machine type, segment size and R+F part number

4. Step-by-Step Installation

1

Step 1: Position the segment

Place the pile cloth segment onto the carrier frame with the pile side facing outward (water side). Ensure correct alignment of attachment points.

2

Step 2: Secure the fastening

Attach the segment per machine manufacturer specifications: For hook-and-loop systems, press cloth evenly. For clamping bars, tighten bolts uniformly.

3

Step 3: Check seating

Ensure the cloth is wrinkle-free and evenly tensioned. Wrinkles or bubbles can cause bypass flow and reduce filtration performance.

4

Step 4: Verify sealing

Check transitions between segments for tight contact. Leaks lead to TSS breakthrough in the filtrate.

5

Step 5: Final inspection

Manually rotate disc/drum and visually inspect all segments. Re-tighten fastenings as needed.

5. Initial Commissioning

After installing new pile cloth segments, we recommend the following commissioning procedure:

  1. 1.Slowly fill the filter basin with clean water to ensure proper media wetting
  2. 2.Test the backwash system in manual mode — verify all nozzles operate correctly
  3. 3.Run in observation mode for the first 1–2 hours and monitor filtrate values
  4. 4.New pile cloths typically require a 24–48 hour break-in period for optimal filter cake formation
  5. 5.Document operating parameters (flow rate, differential pressure, backwash frequency)

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pulling or tearing pile cloth segments by the pile fibers — always handle by the backing fabric
Installing on wet or dirty hook-and-loop fasteners — significantly reduces adhesion
Mounting segments in wrong orientation (pile side facing inward)
Mixing different media grades on the same disc/drum
Using sharp tools near the pile cloth — risk of damage
Not testing backwash system before installation — defective nozzles will degrade media faster

Questions About Installation?

Our technical team is happy to support you with planning and executing the media installation — including on-site assistance.

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