The vibrating ultrafiltration module - Performance in the 50-1000 Hz frequency range

The effect of mechanical vibrations on the ultrafiltration of oily emulsions was studied in the 50–1000 Hz range. A cylindrical vibrating module was assembled and coupled with an electrodynamic exciter, controlled by a computerized system. The ultrafiltration experiments were run with a 20% cutting oil/water emulsion at different working conditions. The experimental data demonstrated that both vibration amplitude and frequency are effective in enhancing membrane performance. The influence of the frequency is more marked. Energy consumption was evaluated, and simple equations were proposed in order to predict both performances and energy requirements.