3 minute read

Technology Corner

Metal mesh filters are commonly installed as a reusable filtration solution in many demanding applications with critical airflow, such as heating and air-conditioning systems, electronic enclosure cabinets, and portable cooling equipment. But are they the best choice? Many of your customers should take a look at using washable electrostatic air filters instead, and for good reason. Let’s look at some reasons why polypropylene filters are better than standard metal mesh filters.

Built Sturdier

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Washable electrostatic air filters are made from woven polypropylene, a tough material that stands up to extreme outdoor or indoor exposure, corrosive chemicals, highvelocity airflow, and heavy-duty industrial cleaning and maintenance. Metal mesh filters, however, are typically made from aluminum, a softer metal that is easily dented or smashed over time with repeated handling. That can potentially block critical airflow and harm the machinery the filters are meant to protect.

Cleans Easier

Environmentally friendly, washable polypropylene air filters do not shed fibers, absorb moisture, and are impervious to mold, bacteria and fungi. It is easy to see when the media is dirty, and the smooth surface fibers make them easy to clean—all you need to do is wipe or rinse them off and you’re done. On the other hand, cleaning metal mesh filters can be a challenge because of their multiple layers of aluminum that might require soaking in warm soapy water—even though these filters claim to be “quick or easy to clean.”

Performs Better

Due to their inherent electrostatic charge, polypropylene filters, such as our PreVent® Model R, capture and hold smaller particles with an arrestance efficiency of 72%, and a dust holding capacity of 100 gm. Metal mesh filters, however, need to be sprayed down with a tackifier so they can catch dust particles (and, as a result, makes these filters a chore to clean). And don’t worry— our air filter fabric’s electrostatic charge remains constant over time, and continues to draw airborne particles onto fiber surfaces, like iron filings onto a magnet, wash after wash.

Withstands Extreme Elements

Our polypropylene media is heat-resistant in environments up to 250 degrees, heat-treated against shrinkage and resistant to abrasion, most acids, alkalis, bleaches, solvents, aging and indirect sunlight.

Blocks Less Air

Independent testing shows our PreVent Model R filters have a remarkably low initial airflow resistance of .02-.05” w.g. depending on the layers of filter media. That’s up to three times better than the initial airflow resistance of a typical 1/4” thick “rangehood” filter.

Installs Faster and Easier

Installation takes minutes, with no tools. The durable and rigid galvanized steel frame of our PreVent Model R filter easily slides into the air filter holding channel. They can also be fitted with our patented magnetic strip and stuck to the outside of the equipment enclosure air intake. This lets them be easily (and simply) removed for quick access and visual inspection, plus quick cleaning. The steel frame can be converted to 1/2” or 1” depth to add more room for covering a protruding air intake.

More Cost-Effective

Our sturdy, durable polypropylene air filters not only last longer than your typical metal mesh filter but extend the life of your equipment by keeping it running clean. No wonder they are widely considered the most cost-effective filter available.

Why Permatron is Simply Better

Permatron has been designing and manufacturing air filters in the USA, for more than 60 years. In fact, we created the first washable electrostatic air filter. With custom-designs, incredibly fast turnaround, the highest quality, and a nearly endless variety of materials and frames to choose from, Permatron is the industrial and commercial air filter leader for a reason: we go beyond metal mesh filters to deliver a wide range of cost-effective and superior options. That’s why Permatron filters are simply the best.

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