The trapping qualities of a filter cloth (or fabric) make it fit for use in a variety of industrial applications. Water purification, food processing, and sludge removal from liquid products are some common processes for which filter cloth in New Zealand is used.

Due to continual operations, filter fabric gets plugged with microscopic particles. Gradually, these begin to penetrate the fabric and get lodged in the depth of the weave leading to decreased filterability. The particles must therefore be removed from time to time for maintaining high filtration rates and dry cakes. This is why cleaning of this fabric is necessary.

An effective and simple way to clean filter cloths is while the cloths are still installed on the filter press plates. It calls for a system to handle the course of action and the units required include holding tank, pumps, re-circulating piping and valves. Most of these products are typically provided by a filter press supplier. Utmost care must be taken to ensure that the cleaning solution does not squirt from between the filter plates during the cleaning cycle.

A 5% solution of hydrochloric acid mixed with a non-ionic detergent at ambient temperature is the most common starting point to a cleaning solution. Likewise, caustic solutions can be used as per the kind of contaminant being eliminated. Polypropylene fabrics can be cleaned in various solutions as their fibre is highly tolerant to acids and alkalis. Lastly, polyester should not be exposed to very high pH levels and nylon to very low levels.