This paper discusses thin-cake candle filter technology that is used to remove trace amounts of solid contaminant fines from the recirculating fluid streams in amine, glycol and water scrubbers. These contaminants originate from various sources and are generally less than 1 micron (um) in size, which makes their removal very difficult. Candle filter technology and the process of tin-cake building, is a new approach for high-efficiency and cost-effective fines removal.

The paper begins with the problem definition and a discussion of the bench-top laboratory tests that are conducted for problem analysis, technology selection and scale-up.  The tests include pressure, filter media, temperature and viscosity concerns, precoat material and similar process parameters. The candle filter technology is examined for its ability to filter and dry the contaminants to meet the standards for solids disposal. Cake washing is also discussed, as, in some cases, soluble or insoluble components or hazardous solvents must be removed from the solid cake prior to disposal. The paper concludes with a review of typical case histories and installation details.

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