Filter Cartridge

A cartridge filter is a filter component used to separate dirt, particles, or contaminants from a fluid - it can be water, oil, air, or other chemicals - using a cylindrical filter media (cartridge) mounted in a housing (filter housing).

Here is a more complete explanation

General Definition

Cartridge filters work by forcing fluid through filter media (usually from the outside to the inside or vice versa). This media can be made of:

• Polypropylene (PP)

• Cotton or synthetic fibers

• Cellulose paper

• Ceramic

• Activated carbon

• Porous metal (stainless steel mesh)

Particles larger than the pore size of the filter media will be retained, while clean fluid will exit from the other side.

Main Function

• Filters dust, mud, rust, sand, and other impurities from liquids or gases.

• Protects pumps, pipes, and process equipment from particle damage.

• Used in pre-filtration before fine filtration systems (such as RO membranes).

• Improves the quality of water or process fluid in industry.

Types of Filter Cartridges

1. Depth Filter
   Captures particles throughout the thickness of the filter media. Suitable for large particles and high dirt loads.
   Example: Melt-blown polypropylene, wound filter.

2. Pleated Filter
   Has a large surface area due to folding, efficient for fine filtration (small microns).
   Widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and electronics industries.

3. Activated Carbon Cartridge
   Contains activated carbon to absorb odors, chlorine, and organic chemicals.

General Applications

• Drinking water industry (water treatment)

• Pharmaceutical & food

• Automotive and industrial machinery

• Oil and gas industry

• Laboratory and electronics

Size & Capacity

• Generally available in lengths of 10", 20", 30", up to 40"

• Filtration rating: 0.2 micron to 100 micron

• Capacity depends on working pressure, fluid viscosity and media surface area.