Mesh-inertia sludge remover IOW-50

Grid-inertial sludge separators – protection of installations and equipment

Grid-inertial sludge separators of the IOW type are devices designed to effectively protect heating, district heating, cooling, water supply and industrial installations from mechanical impurities. Their operation translates into reduced operating, repair and maintenance costs of both the entire installation and individual components. They are particularly useful in places prone to the accumulation of sediment and rust, which can lead to failures and reduced efficiency.

Construction and principle of operation

The key to the effectiveness of IOW sludge separators is a two-stage cleaning process – centrifugal and collective. Water entering the device gains rotational movement, which causes impurities to precipitate on the walls of the tank. Then, the water flows through a mesh insert with a density of 196 meshes/cm², where smaller particles are retained. In magnetic versions – a magnetic stage is added, capturing ferromagnetic impurities. Thanks to this solution, IOW sludge separators effectively remove impurities with a grain size of over 0.1 mm. The design of the device allows for easy removal of accumulated sediment through the drain connection.

Application and installation

IOW sludge separators find wide application in various types of installations:

• In heat nodes: on the water supply network and on the return from the central heating installation.
• In boiler rooms: on the return line of the boiler circuit.
• In industrial installations: everywhere where effective removal of mechanical impurities is required.
• Replacement of older models: IOW sludge separators are designed as replacements for older models according to BN - 69/8864-05.

During installation, remember the correct flow direction – incorrect mounting can lead to damage to the mesh insert. The connections of sludge separators with larger diameters (DN 100/125/150) require support in accordance with KER or KESC catalogs. A ball valve is recommended on the venting connection, and a ball valve of the appropriate diameter for the pipeline on the drain connection. The devices are subjected to a water pressure test in accordance with UDT regulations (2.0 MPa).

Available types and parameters

IOW sludge separators are available in various sizes, adapted to different pipeline diameters: IOW-32, IOW-40, IOW-50, IOW-65, IOW-80, IOW-100, IOW-125 and IOW-150. The maximum permissible operating pressure is 1.6 MPa or 6 bar (depending on the version), and the maximum operating temperature is 150°C. The devices are made of 18G2A steel or, optionally, hot-dip galvanized or made of stainless steel (with PZH approval). Magnetic sludge separator versions (IOW mag.) equipped with a magnetic insert for increased filtration efficiency are also available.