Frequency of usage
A heavily used filter will naturally have a shorter lifespan as measured in time than one with lighter or more occasional loads. Laboratory figures which express filter load rather than periods of time may be more valuable for a comparison of products in this instance.
The rate of flow
A heavier flow rate may require more intensive processing capabilities than a slow flow, forcing the filter to work harder and limiting the duration of its expected working lifespan, unless of course, the chosen filter is sufficiently robust to handle the heavier loads. This is why it is essential to ensure the right match of a filter to its process; something that Fileder will assist you with.
Chemical compatibility
The correct filter must be accurately selected for each application. Some chemicals are more corrosive than others and will require specialist filter media. Others are naturally abrasive and require resistant materials that can withstand the physical stresses of the filtration process.
Maintenance and servicing
A filter will be best placed to achieve its maximum operating lifespan if it is regularly maintained, checked and serviced as part of the broader filtration and purification system that it sits within. Advanced techniques – particularly with automation – allow tweaks to be made on a regular basis to ensure that the system runs as safely, efficiently and effectively as it should.
Environment
The filter must always be stored according to the directions on the packaging, or its useful working lifespan may be reduced – especially if it is exposed to prolonged direct sunlight or high temperatures.
The difference between lab numbers and real life
The expected working lifespan of a filter will typically be expressed either in time or in the volume of liquid filtered between filter media changes and this information will be provided by the manufacturers.
In reality, however, the lifespan of a water filter will depend on the conditions that it operates under – such as pressure, flow rate and temperature, as well as the solids load. It is important to know that the testing conditions of a laboratory will tend to give slightly different numbers as a real-life situation can achieve. These lab numbers are useful to provide a comparison between products or an indication of likely optimal lifespan, however, the best way to truly determine the lifespan of a filter product is to operate it systematically in real-world conditions and measure the outputs. This will produce a trend lifespan figure which can be used more accurately within your operation to predict future buying needs.
Why choose Fileder
Established for over 4 decades, Fileder Filter Systems is one of the largest independent process filtration and water treatment supplier in the UK. A wide range of filtration and water treatment products are available to order for next day delivery, including carbon blocks, pleated and depth cartridges, housings and RO systems.
