Optimization of multi-V filter design for airliner environmental control system using an empirical model

With the wide use of multi-V filters in aircraft cabins, it is necessary to establish a pressure drop prediction and optimization model for multi-V HEPA cabin filters. Based on approximate solution of the Navier-Stokes equation and with the aid of CFD simulations, we developed an empirical equation for the overall pressure drop across a multi-V HEPA cabin filter. The measured pressure drop across the filter was used to verify the accuracy of the empirical equation. The equation was then used to develop two optimized design procedures for multi-V HEPA cabin filters with low pressure drop and high filtration efficiency. The structural parameters of the filters obtained by the two design procedures were consistent and very close to the actual parameters. Compared with CFD, this empirical equation is easier to use and involves only a short calculation time. The empirical equation and optimized design procedures are useful for filter design.