Cartridge Filter

Cartridge filters consist of multiple cylindrical tubes mounted on holders in a pressure tank.  The holders seal the ends of the tube so the water must pass through the walls of the cartridges.  Depending on the requirements of the process and the required filtration capability, a cartridge filter may be made with any numbers of materials.  They are rated as to the medium particle size they will pass.

• Tags: Filtration

Cartridge Filter Index

• Cartridge Filter Design Classification
• Cartridge Filter Advantages and Disadvantages

If a particle is too big to pass through the filter material, it becomes entrapped in the wall of the cartridge.  This will lead to a gradual plugging of the cartridge.  If the pressure differential across the filter is too great, the filter must be replaced. Due to the design, backwashing these filters is not typically done.  A common every day example of a cartridge filter would be the type of filter that is found in a backyard pool.

Cartridge filter Design Classification

Cartridge filters come in various types, designed for specific applications and filtration requirements.

• Water Cartridge Filters  -
  • Sediment Cartridges  -  Designed to remove suspended particles and sediment from water.
  • Carbon Cartridges  -  Contain activated carbon to adsorb impurities, such as chlorine, chemicals, and odors.
  • Pleated Cartridges  -  Have a larger surface area for improved filtration efficiency.

• Air Cartridge Filters  -
  • HEPA Filters  -  High Efficiency Particulate Air filters designed to capture very small particles, making them suitable for air purifiers and cleanrooms.
  • Activated Carbon Cartridges  -  Used to remove odors, gases, and chemicals from the air.
  • Pleated Cartridges  -  Similar to water filters, these provide a larger filtration area for air purification.

• Industrial Cartridge Filters  -
  
  • Oil and Gas Cartridges  -  Designed to filter oil and gas streams in industrial processes.
  • Polyester Cartridges  -  Used in various industrial applications for particle removal.
  • Resin Bonded Cartridges  -  Feature a resin-bonded construction for chemical and high-temperature applications.

• Pool and Spa Cartridge Filters  -
  
  • Paper Cartridges  -  Commonly used in pool and spa filtration systems.
  • Microfiber Cartridges  -  Provide finer filtration for removing smaller particles.

• Oil Filters for Vehicles  -
  
  • Automotive Oil Filters  -  Designed to remove contaminants from engine oil in vehicles.
  • Fuel Filters  -  Cartridges used to filter impurities from fuel before reaching the engine.

• Photocopier and Printer Cartridges  -
  
  • Toner Cartridges  -  Used in laser printers and photocopiers to apply toner (powdered ink) to paper.

The specific type of cartridge filter you choose depends on the intended application and the type of contaminants you need to remove from the fluid (air or water).

 

Cartridge Filter Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages	Disadvantages
Cartridge filters often provide high filtration efficiency due to their pleated or layered construction, trapping a wide range of particles. Cartridge filters are generally easy to install and replace, making maintenance more straightforward compared to some other filtration systems. They have a compact design, making them suitable for applications where space is limited. In many cases, cartridge filters can be cost effective, especially for smaller scale applications, as they don't require complex infrastructure. Cartridge filters come in various types suitable for different applications, such as water purification, air filtration, industrial processes, and more. Depending on the type and application, cartridge filters can have a relatively long lifespan before needing replacement. Regular maintenance typically involves replacing the cartridge, and the process is straightforward.	Cartridge filters may have a limited capacity for holding contaminants before requiring replacement, especially in high contamination environments. As a cartridge filter collects particles, it may experience an increase in pressure drop, affecting the flow rate and efficiency. Regular monitoring is necessary. While cartridge filters can be cost effective, the cost of replacement cartridges can add up over time, depending on the frequency of replacement. In certain heavy-duty industrial applications with high volumes of contaminants, cartridge filters may not be the most efficient option. It's essential to select the right type of cartridge filter for specific applications. Using the wrong type may result in reduced efficiency or potential damage. Unlike some other filtration systems, cartridge filters typically require replacement rather than self-cleaning mechanisms, which could be a drawback in certain scenarios. Some cartridge materials may not be compatible with certain chemicals, limiting their use in specific industrial processes.