How to Specify a Wedge Wire Screen: Step by Step

Specifying a wedge wire screen requires six steps. Skip any and you risk ordering a product that does not perform as expected. Step 1: Define the process objective. What will it do? Filtration, classification, dewatering, retention, or intake protection? The objective determines the type and orientation. Step 2: Characterize the feed material. Provide particle size distribution (sieve analysis or laser diffraction data), solids concentration, and the specific gravity of both solid and liquid phases. For slurries, include viscosity and temperature. Step 3: Describe the operating environment. Temperature range, chemical exposure (acids, bases, chlorides, CIP chemicals), pressure or vacuum conditions, and whether the unit will see vibration, impact, or abrasion. Step 4: Select type and orientation. Cylindrical, flat panel, sieve bend, basket, drum, or intake configuration. FOTI or FITO flow direction. Slot orientation relative to flow. Step 5: Determine slot aperture. Based on particle data from Step 2 and the sizing rules for your application type. For solid-liquid separation, start at 50-80% of the smallest particle to retain. For dewatering, the aperture must pass the liquid phase while retaining the solids cake. Step 6: Select material grade and surface finish. Based on chemical and temperature data from Step 3. Match the material to the most aggressive condition the equipment will see in service, including CIP cleaning chemicals. If you have a technical drawing, provide it with material specification, quantity, and delivery requirements. If you do not have a drawing, send the information above and ADEN engineers will develop the specification with you.