FAQ's
1. How long will your filters last?
This is one of the most commonly asked questions. Filters are changed based on differential pressure. The two factors that cause differential pressure are fluid viscosity and dirt which we refer to as particulate. We try to size a filter with a clean element pressure drop of less than 3 PSID and we adjust for fluid viscosity. Therefore, if a filter starts to show differential pressure at a constant flow, then it should be based only on particulate levels. Consequently; to answer the question, you have to know how dirty the fluid is you are going to filter. If you do not know how dirty the fluid is, then you cannot answer the question.
2. How fast can you remove water from oils & fuels?
The water removal rates of oils & fuels are all different and can vary widely. The reason water removal rates are all different is because they all have different viscosities. As a general rule of thumb, fluids of higher viscosities tend to hold water better in suspension. Another important criteria, is the additive packages. Additive packages are added to fuels & lubricants to improve the characteristics of a fluids performance under work conditions. Example: Motor oils have additives to keep water in suspension and not let the water shed or fall out of suspension. Consequently, you need to know the type of fluid. Generally speaking, fluids such as fuels and light oils tend the shed water very well and the water removal rates are very high.
3. What is a Beta Rating?
A Beta Rating is a measurement of a filter's efficiency. The Beta Rating is a measurement or ratio of upstream particles divided by the downstream particles. When a filter is challenged with 1000 particles and one gets by, then you have 1000 divided by 1 or Beta 1000. The ratio 1000:1 means that 99.9% of particles of a give micron size are removed in a single pass. Note that a Beta Ratio of 2 is very low and only 50% efficient in a single pass. That is because if 1000 particles challenged a filter then 500 got by. This is a very Low-Efficiency-Beta-Rating and often the main cause of many failures and high particle counts/high contamination in many systems. Also, note that most filters are paper or cellulose and at their very best Beta Ratio is only 2 and consequently only 50% efficient. All our high performance micro-glass filters are rated Beta 1000. The bottom is the highest Beta Rating will ensure the lowest possible particle counts.
4. Is there any information available on benefits of preventive maintenance?
Yes. Download this document for a details benefit analysis on why filtration is far less costly than replacement and mechanical repairs.