Air Filters Industry Information
IQS Newsroom Articles on Air Filters
Air filters are designed by air filter manufacturers
to filter and remove a range of contaminants from the air, including
molds, gases, dirt and odors. There are specific filters available for
different needs, for not all filters are designed to remove the same
particles. Air filter manufacturers use various materials. For example,
fabrics include gauze, fibers such as polyester and metals such as stainless
steel. Sometimes electric and chemical reactions within the filter itself
help attract and remove harmful elements from the air. Filter efficiency
is determined by a few different factors: the size of the filter fibers,
the density of the fibers in the filter and the velocity of the air that
moves through the filter.
HVAC filters are largely used in home or commercial heating ventilation
and air conditioning systems (HVAC). A HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate
Air) filter is an example of a specific style of filter used in HVAC
systems. A HEPA
filter is mainly used to remove small particulates such
as allergens and other common irritants from the air. ULPA filters are also highly efficient and very common. HEPA and ULPA filters are commonly as vacuum filters
to eliminate harmful allergens. The automobile industry uses air
filters extensively in vehicles to help promote engine hygiene. Exhaust filters and inline filter are common engine components. Some domestic and industrial appliances house their own internal
air filters to increase air quality. Clean air within individual machines
ensures longer life to the units. Examples of these types of air filters
are found in vacuum cleaners and humidifiers.
Air filter manufacturers create their products to protect machines like
cars and air conditioners from damage and premature breakdown. Air compressor filters,
for example, are vital to the longevity of direct air machines such as
nail guns. Air filters are also made to be beneficial to living
creatures. The more researchers learn about harmful particles and
substances that exist in the air, the more air filters play an
important part in society's long-term health. Strict air quality
guidelines in many government and industrial circles make the use and
continued innovation of air filters essential. Particularly beneficial
is the use of air filters in domestic environments in which there are
pets or excessive mold, mildew and dust that bring on allergic
symptoms. Air filters help clean the air and remove these
allergy-causing particulates, thus allowing home-owners and their
families to breathe easier.
For the most part, air filters that deal with large particles and high
velocities have large filter fibers, and likewise, air filters that deal
with small particles and low velocities have small filter fibers. To
ensure that an air filter will work properly in its intended application,
make sure that the design, density of media and fibers and possible adhesive
are taken into account before purchase. Air filters are generally able
to function very well, as long as they handle the right kind of particulate
for their design. Some will even outlast their intended replacement date
and will provide years of reliable performance and cleaner air.