Consistency connects – a second APF electrostatic precipitator for CAD Belfaux

13 years of trust in the same technology. After the particulate filter installed in 2011 continued to meet all limits without any problems, CAD Belfaux has once again opted for the durability of APF particulate filters.

In the area of municipal heat supply, one thing counts above all: reliability in continuous operation . The reliability of the combustion system and the durability of the particulate matter filter go hand in hand here. The choice of a filter solution has a direct impact on emissions, maintenance costs, and operational reliability – and thus also on the confidence in the overall system. The fact that an operator like CAD Belfaux is once again relying on an electrostatic precipitator from APF after more than a decade speaks volumes: technology with long-term effectiveness.

However, in this case, it wasn't about replacing an existing system—it was about adding another one based on the same technical principles. A second electrostatic precipitator was installed because the first system had been operating reliably and efficiently for 13 years.

Project overview: The CAD Belfaux

CAD Belfaux ( Chauffage à distance Belfaux ) operates a municipal district heating plant in western Switzerland. The plant supplies public buildings, residential areas, and commercial businesses with environmentally friendly heat from biomass via a central network.

Already during commissioning in 2011, it was clear that the technology used had to be efficient, reliable, and compliant over the long term . At that time, CAD Belfaux opted for an APF eTF105 electrostatic precipitator . It has operated reliably in continuous operation ever since – a prime example of technical durability and emissions-compliant performance .

Second plant – same technology

APF Plant and Process Technology stands for practical solutions in the field of fine dust separation for biomass combustion systems . Since 2008, APF has been supplying leading manufacturers such as Schmid energy solutions GmbH and Mawera GmbH , as well as private combustion plant operators , with reliable filter technology – and supports projects from design through commissioning to ongoing optimization.

In the case of CAD Belfaux, in addition to the proven product quality and durability of the particulate matter filters, experience with the system environment was also crucial: Integration into existing exhaust gas paths, adaptation to the specific combustion data, and direct access to the APF technical team made the implementation efficient and reliable.

Why the decision was made again to use the proven filter system

Technological longevity
TheAPF energyTowerFilter eTF105, installed in 2011, continues to deliver a consistent filtration efficiency of 90% at a flow rate of 4,447 Bm³/h . Its robust construction, automatic brush cleaning , and fully automatic dust removal via a hopper screw ensure high availability. The hot water trace heating of the dust hopper prevents cold bridges and further increases operational reliability.

APFenergyTowerFilter eTF105 in Belfaux
The eSF006/3800 from the APF energy SmartFilter series offers the same proven functionality as its predecessor – but further developed according to the latest state of the art technology . With a separation efficiency of over 90% , an optimized high-voltage supply , and improved heating technology, it meets the highest efficiency requirements.
It also includes an integrated remote maintenance module with availability tracking . This has been consistently developed by APF over the past few years and meets today's quality and service requirements . In the event of any malfunctions, it allows our technicians in Salzburg direct online access to the system – for rapid diagnosis, targeted troubleshooting, and maximum operational reliability. This module also impacts the longevity of the particulate matter filter.
Low-maintenance and reliable
Both electrostatic precipitators operate fully automatically and trouble-free – with predictable maintenance intervals and no time-consuming manual intervention. These features ensure high system availability and low operating costs at CAD Belfaux – a benefit that is particularly valued in public infrastructure.
Lifecycle cost efficiency
Compared to alternative filter systems, APF electrostatic precipitators offer a low total cost of ownership (TCO) . The combination of the long service life of the fine dust filter, robust technology, and automated processes guarantees an economically sustainable solution .

Figures that create trust: the technical balance sheet

Here you can see the technical key data of both APF electrostatic precipitators :

Durability of fine dust filters = sustainable investments

The CAD Belfaux case demonstrates that investments in long-lasting filter systems pay off. The long-term operational reliability and durability of the particulate matter filter strengthens confidence in the entire heating solution – among operators, partners, planners, and authorities.

Filter resistance is not just a technical term, but a clear competitive advantage:

Reduced operating costs over the years
Sustainable compliance with environmental regulations
Lower capital commitment due to low spare parts quota
Calculable maintenance cycles and planning security

Conclusion: Installed twice – convinced once

The use of two APF electrostatic precipitators at CAD Belfaux uniquely demonstrates what technical durability means in practice . This isn't a replacement, it's not a stopgap solution—it's a clear decision for proven technology , enhanced by another, tailor-made system.

For sales and project managers this means:

✅ Arguments based on real long-term experience

✅ Proven emission reduction with minimal maintenance

✅ Filter systems with documented operational reliability

And we at APF say, “ Thank you for your trust and cooperation .” We look forward to working together in the coming years.

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