The membrane pleated filters are available in PTFE, PES, PVDF, PP, fibreglass, and nylon materials, all featuring a pleated structure. PTFE membrane filter cartridges are the most commonly used, offering excellent hydrophobicity and resistance to water ingress. PES membrane filters, on the other hand, provide outstanding flow characteristics.

The pleated design enhances the filtration area and contaminant holding capacity, extending the membrane filter’s lifespan and reducing the frequency of replacements and labor costs. All filters are manufactured using FDA-certified materials in a high-cleanliness environment, making them suitable for applications in food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, ultrapure water, and semiconductor industries.

This blog provides a comprehensive overview of membrane filters, including their functions, filtration methods, applications, materials, and how they differ from other types of filters.

What is filtration membrane

Filtration is a process used to separate liquids or gases. During this process, the feed stream is divided into two components as it passes through a medium: the permeate and the retained material. There are various filtration methods, among which membrane filtration is a key method involving filtration media.

The membrane, functioning as a separation barrier, resembles paper in appearance. However, membrane filters consist of numerous micropores that retain particles larger than the specified size as liquids or gases pass through.

Membrane filters come in various sizes and shapes, including capsule, disc, and cylindrical forms. Sanitek Filter offers a range of membrane filter products suitable for different application needs, covering various specifications and configurations to meet diverse customer requirements.

Features of Membrane Cartridge Filter

These filters feature a robust membrane cartridge construction that effectively withstands thermal and mechanical stresses. The core, external support cage, and end caps of the filter are made from 100% pure polypropylene (PP), which enhances the filter’s durability and chemical resistance.

Compared to other industrial filters on the market, these membrane filter cartridges maximize fluid exposure to the filter surface area. The membrane cartridge design eliminates the use of adhesives or sealants, preventing contamination.

Replacing traditional industrial filters with membrane filter cartridges provides superior filtration performance under high-flow conditions. Additionally, these filters maintain excellent sterilization effectiveness even in highly humid or dry environments.

Components of Membrane Filter Cartridges

Membrane filter cartridges are sophisticated filtration devices composed of several key components that work together to ensure effective and reliable filtration. Understanding these components is crucial for selecting the right filter cartridge for your specific application.

Membrane Material

The membrane itself is the heart of the filter cartridge. It acts as the primary filtration medium, selectively allowing certain particles to pass through while retaining others based on size, charge, or other properties.

Common membrane materials include:

• Polyethersulfone (PES): Known for its high flow rates and low protein binding, ideal for biological applications.
• Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF): Offers excellent chemical resistance and is widely used in sterilizing applications.
• Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE): Highly resistant to solvents and chemicals, making it suitable for aggressive environments.
• Nylon: Balances strength and flexibility, commonly used for general-purpose filtration.
• Polypropylene (PP): Economical and versatile, used in a wide range of applications.

How does a membrane filter work?

A membrane pleated filter cartridge works by utilizing a pleated membrane structure to filter out contaminants as fluid flows through it. The membrane, often made from materials like polyethersulfone (PES), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), or polypropylene (PP), contains microscopic pores that selectively trap particles and microorganisms while allowing the fluid to pass through.

The pleated design of the membrane increases the filtration surface area within the cartridge, enhancing its ability to capture contaminants and maintain a higher flow rate. As the fluid moves through the cartridge, larger particles are retained on the membrane’s surface, providing efficient filtration for various applications.

Filtration Types: Absolute and Nominal Explained

Filters can be classified into different types based on their filtration methods and structures, such as “absolute” and “nominal” filters. Nominal filters, also known as depth filters, feature randomly wound microfibers. As the liquid passes through the filtration media, particles adhere to the fibers and are thereby retained. In contrast, absolute filters are typically composed of synthetic resin films or membranes containing numerous micropores, which effectively capture particles larger than the specified size.

The retention performance of depth filters is influenced by factors such as operating pressure and contaminant concentration, making them generally used for pre-filtration. In contrast, membrane filter cartridges are employed for absolute filtration, ensuring the retention of particles larger than the specified grade.

In some cases, such as in mineral water processing, multiple filtration steps are employed. Absolute filters are typically used before bottling to ensure the safety of the water by removing harmful microorganisms or contaminants. However, nominal filters are generally used first to remove larger particles and reduce clogging of the final filter. Therefore, it is advisable to use the appropriate filter type that meets the requirements of the process.

Advantages of Using Membrane Filter Cartridges

Membrane filters offer significant advantages by reducing operational costs and improving product quality. They are generally more cost-effective than other methods due to their simple design and efficient performance. Unlike traditional filters, membrane filters don’t leave behind residue, which decreases the need for frequent cleaning and lowers overall processing costs.

Moreover, high-quality membrane filtration systems greatly enhance product quality by providing precise filtration and effectively removing contaminants. This ensures the safety and stability of the final product, helping to meet customer expectations and maintain market competitiveness. Membrane filters streamline operations and deliver reliable, high-quality products.

Applications of Membrane Pleated Filters Across Various Industries

Membrane pleated filters are not limited to water filtration. They are extensively used in the food and beverage industry for filtering beer, wine, bottled water, and dairy products. Additionally, these membrane filters are employed in the semiconductor industries for purifying water or chemical solutions, in the pharmaceutical sector for treating process water and purified water, and in various other industrial applications for process or industrial water filtration.

Application examples include:

• Food and Beverage Industry (e.g., beer, wine, bottled water, dairy products)
• Fine Chemicals(e.g., amino acids, enzymes)
• Life science(e.g., process water, purified water)
• Semiconductor Industry (e.g., industrial water, ultrapure water)

Conclusion

Understanding membrane filter cartridges is the first step toward optimizing your filtration processes. As you navigate your options, choosing the right filter can make a significant difference in performance and efficiency.

If you’re looking for top-notch membrane filter cartridges, we’re here to help. Contact us or send an inquiry to info@brotherfiltration.com for expert guidance and tailored solutions. We’re eager to support you in achieving your filtration goals and are excited about the opportunity to work together.