In this week's exhibitor interview, we spoke to Heather Bass, Director of Technology for Carolina Filters.

Carolina Filters specializes in the technical cleaning of various types of process equipment. From high value metallic filters and heat exchangers unable to be cleaned in place, to highly specialized process equipment, their technical capability supports nearly every industry. The facility also maintains a testing laboratory which performs a multi-layered evaluation process on each filter to ensure cleanliness and integrity.

Are there any new technology developments that your company is working on at the moment?

Carolina Filters has an unwavering commitment to new and cutting edge technology which has established us a the world’s leader in metallic filter cleaning and testing. Our technical staff travels the world researching and qualifying the newest cleaning technologies offered in order to provide our customers with the highest level of service possible.

What are the biggest challenges facing the industry today and how can this be overcome?

One major challenge that we are seeing at our current customers is the transition into processing post-consumer recycled materials. The variation in composition and quality of feedstock received are resulting in higher loads on filtration systems in order to continue to produce high-quality materials. The combination of the chemical and physical cleaning technologies available at Carolina Filters allows us to target the often unknown contaminates which exist in post-consumer recycled feedstocks. By maintaining contingent cleaning methods for all processes, Carolina Filters can meet quick turnarounds often required when processing post-consumer recycled materials.  

How do you see the sector developing in the next five to ten years?

In the next 5-10 years, we see a greater focus for all industries to reduce waste in all areas.  In the polymer sector, we believe there will be a rise in demand for high quality, post-consumer recycled materials.  As a company, we are ensuring that we are prepared to support the increased cleaning needs of our current customers while also remaining a resource for new filtration customers.  By investing in environmentally friendly cleaning technologies, and developing cleaning methods which extend the life of a reusable filter, we are doing our part to support an environmentally focused future.

What are you most looking forward to at this years’ show?

This year I am looking forward to listening to the many speakers that are scheduled in order to learn more about the future of the Plastics Recycling market.

Carolina Filters will be exhibiting at the Plastic Recycling World Expo.