When selecting a sterile gas cartridge filter, it's crucial to recognise that while these filters may appear similar, their performance can vary significantly. This article aims to guide you in making the optimal choice for your specific application.
Below is a graph showing the flow to differential pressure performance of three different 10” sterile gas cartridges possibilities. Despite their similar appearance, their performance differs markedly:
Flowrate comparison between PTFE, High-flow PTFE and pleated glass microfibre sterile gas cartridge filters
From a performance standpoint alone, the product represented by the blue line stands out. Opting for the pleated microfibre cartridge filter can lead to either halving the number of cartridges needed or quadrupling the service life of the cartridge filter, resulting in significant cost reductions.
While pleated microfibre sterile gas cartridges are suitable for applications in food processing, beverages, water treatment, and healthcare, industries such as pharmaceuticals have standardised on membrane filters, primarily PTFE, and occasionally PVDF, for sterile gas filtration. The graph illustrates that enhancements in cartridge construction can yield a 30% performance improvement in high-flow PTFE over standard PTFE cartridges. This improvement translates to reduced operational costs and extended service life, influencing your choice of PTFE membrane cartridge filter.
Regarding PVDF membranes, our recommendation is to replace them with PTFE membranes when possible. PTFE offers superior performance, and in our opinion, the introduction of PVDF for gas applications was a step backward.
Understanding these differences is essential, and your supplier should provide the correct guidance. At PoreFiltration, we pride ourselves on our expertise in both gas and liquid applications. We can help you find the optimal solution for your needs.
To explore all the product options we offer, click HERE. If you wish to discuss your gas or liquid applications, contact us at techsupport@porefiltration.co.uk or visit our website at porefiltration.co.uk, and we will get back to you promptly.
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