How to Choose a Filter Bag for Your Industrial Filtration System

Choosing the Right Filter Bag for Your Filtration System

Industrial filtration systems are vital for maintaining the quality and integrity of your processes by removing unwanted particles and microorganisms from liquids. The effectiveness of these systems heavily relies on choosing the correct filter bag.

The right filter bag will not only ensure optimal filtration but also prolong the life of your system and reduce maintenance costs. This guide will help you navigate the key considerations when selecting a filter bag that meets your specific application requirements.

Let’s review everything you need to know regarding how to choose a baghouse filter bag for your industrial filtration system:

What is an Industrial Filtration System Filter Bag?

Bag filtration is one of the most efficient and widely used methods for filtering large volumes of water and other liquids. These filter bags are designed to trap contaminants and particles, ranging from visible debris to microscopic impurities. The type of filter bag you select will depend on the specific needs of your application.

For instance, if your process requires the removal of nearly all particles, an absolute filter bag with a defined pore size can be used to achieve near-total particle retention.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Filter Bag

Selecting the right filter bag for your industrial filtration system involves several critical considerations. Understanding these factors will help you identify the filter bag that best suits your needs:

1. Particle Size

The size of the particles that need to be filtered is a primary consideration. Filter bags are rated by their micron size, which determines the smallest particle size that the bag can capture. There are two main types of ratings:

Nominal Rating: This indicates that the filter bag can capture a percentage of particles larger than the stated micron size but not all.
Absolute Rating: This specifies that the filter bag can retain nearly all particles of the stated size. For example, a filter with a 20 µm absolute rating will capture 99% of particles that are 20 µm or larger.

Choosing between nominal and absolute ratings depends on the level of filtration required for your application. We detail more about baghouse filter ratings in our article linked here.

2. Flow Rate

The flow rate through the filter bag is determined by the size of the filter area and the characteristics of the liquid being filtered. Liquids with higher viscosity or denser materials may require larger filter bags or bags made from materials that facilitate higher flow rates.

Selecting a filter bag that is too small or made from a material that is too thick can reduce the flow rate and impair the efficiency of your filtration system.

3. Pressure

Each filter bag is designed to operate within a specific pressure range. Exceeding the maximum operating pressure can damage the filter bag and the filtration system, leading to costly repairs and downtime. It’s important to monitor the pressure differential across the filter bag and replace it when the differential reaches 15 PSID.

Regular maintenance and timely replacement of filter bags help prevent pressure-related issues. Find out more on our baghouse dust collector replacement service page.

4. Process Conditions

The conditions under which your filtration system operates—such as temperature, pressure, and chemical exposure—are critical in selecting the right filter bag. For instance, high-temperature applications may require filter bags made from materials that can withstand extreme heat without degrading.

Similarly, chemical-resistant materials are necessary for processes involving aggressive solvents or corrosive substances.

5. Filter Media Types

Filter bags are made from various materials, each suited for different types of filtration. The three basic types of filter media include:

Needle Felts: Ideal for general filtration, these are made from fibers that are entangled to form a dense filter medium.
Woven Monofilament Meshes: These provide precise filtration with defined pore sizes, making them suitable for applications requiring absolute filtration.
Melt Blown: These filters are made from microfibers that provide high filtration efficiency and are commonly used in critical applications.

Common filter bag materials include:

Polypropylene: A versatile material resistant to many chemicals and suitable for a wide range of applications.
Polyester: Known for its durability and chemical resistance, making it a popular choice for industrial filtration.
Polyamide (Nylon): Offers excellent strength and resistance to abrasion, suitable for demanding filtration processes.

6. Filter Housing

Filter housings are essential components that hold the filter bags in place within the filtration system. The material of the housing must be compatible with both the liquid being filtered and the operating conditions of the system. Common materials for filter housings include:

Stainless Steel: Offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability, ideal for harsh environments.
Carbon Steel: Provides strength and durability at a lower cost, suitable for less corrosive applications.
Aluminum: Lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making it a good choice for certain industrial processes.
Exotic Alloys: Used for specialized applications requiring extreme resistance to heat, pressure, or corrosive chemicals.
Plastic: Cost-effective and resistant to corrosion, suitable for less demanding filtration processes.

Find the Right Filter Bag for Your Industrial Filtration System at FabCo!

At FabCo Industrial Services, we offer a comprehensive range of high-quality filter bags designed to meet the specific needs of your industrial filtration system. Our filter bags are engineered to remove contaminants efficiently, based on precise micron ratings, ensuring the purity and quality of your liquids.

Whether you need assistance selecting the right filter bag or want to explore our replacement filter bag calculator, our team is here to help. Contact us online or via phone today at (800) 473-5251 to learn more about our filter bag options and how we can support your filtration needs.