Monitoring and control of air filtration systems: Digital twin based on 1D computational fluid dynamics simulation and experimental data

This study presents the development of a digital model based on one-dimensional computational fluid dynamics for the monitoring and control of filtering systems used for removing flour, dust, and other particulates from the airflow arriving from various sections of industrial production plants.

Focusing on a pilot plant equipped with a cyclone bag filter, historical experimental data was integrated with the results of a one-dimensional fluid dynamics simulation model to create a digital twin capable of real-time control and regulation of industrial plants. In particular, measured pressure drop data under different clogging conditions were interpolated to generate the characteristic curves of the filter under various clogging conditions, to be implemented within the digital model of the plant. The generated model, validated through a dedicated experimental campaign, accurately predicted the airflow rate and pressure distribution across the plant. The system’s capability to adapt to changing operational conditions, such as clogging, was demonstrated through simulation, highlighting the model’s utility in maintaining the desired operation levels while minimizing the need for extensive sensor networks.

The analyzed case study in the field of air filtration systems aims to fill the gap in the scientific literature related to the application of Digital Twin technology to the control of industrial manufacturing plants. The findings highlight the potential of digital twins in monitoring and control, as well as predictive maintenance, of industrial systems. The findings highlight the potential of Digital Twins in monitoring and control, as well as predictive maintenance, of industrial systems. Future research activities will explore the model’s applicability in failure and anomaly detection, to further enhance predictive maintenance of air filtering systems.