Compliance and maintenance issues in an egg powder production

Customer Profile

A food industry manufacturer in California is producing egg white powder for human consumption. Operating under strict FDA regulations, the client faced production stops and contamination threats due to failing filter components in their dust collector system.

The case study explains the advantages of using Weltech bands over glued bands. Weltech Technology ensures 100% pleat alignment with no use of glue; it improves the productivity,  is FDA compliant, and ensures nothing falls off into the hopper. 

Location: California, US
Dust type: Egg white powder

The customer was using competitor pleated bag filters with glued strap bands. These bands detached due to likely chemical reactions in the application environment, and in multiple cases, the production had to be stopped to replace the filtration equipment.

Given the strict safety and hygiene standards in food production, this was a major concern for the client since the glue used in filter banding was disintegrating and falling into the hopper.

Challenges

• Bands fell into the product hopper, risking contamination of the egg white powder.
• Production had to be stopped to clear and inspect the system.
• Removal and replacement of filters became difficult due to band detachment.

Hengst Filtration proposed the installation of their Multifit CMF145 pleated bag filter cartridges, a filter design often used in food-grade environments. 
The key upgrade was the use of Weltech ultrasonic-welded strap bands, which completely eliminated the need for glue.

Why ultrasonic welding?

• Ensures the strap bands remain firmly attached to the pleat tips
• Withstands the application’s chemical and thermal stresses at temperatures up to 120°C
• Offers high vacuum resistance, a compact design, and full EC1935:2005 & FDA certified compliance as food contact material (FCM).

Download data sheet

When operating in regulated industries such as food production, it is essential to use certified filtration equipment that complies with all relevant standards. In particular, components must be approved as Food Contact Materials (FCM) to ensure safety and legal compliance throughout the process chain.

Avoid the use of glue in food filtration systems. Chemical reactions within the production environment can weaken or degrade adhesive bonds, leading to potential filter failure. More importantly, the detachment of glued components can result in contamination of the food product, posing serious risks to both safety and system integrity.

To mitigate such risks, Weltech ultrasonic welding technology offers a superior alternative. Ultrasonic welding provides a robust and clean bond without the need for adhesives, making it particularly suitable for food applications where hygiene and mechanical integrity are non-negotiable.

Moreover, filter stability plays a central role in ensuring consistent process operation. Secure, well-attached filter components reduce the likelihood of unexpected downtime and make maintenance tasks quicker and easier, ultimately improving plant efficiency.

Finally, collaboration with filtration experts is vital. Every application has its unique demands, especially in sensitive environments. Partnering with specialists ensures that solutions are customised, optimized for performance, safety, and compliance.