String Wound Filter vs Spun Filter

Filter cartridges are important parts of filtration systems that clean liquids by removing dirt and impurities. Among the various types of filter cartridges available, two popular options are string wound and spun filters. String wound filters use tightly wound materials like cotton or polypropylene, ideal for removing sediment and enduring high temperatures in industrial settings. Spun filters are made by melting and spinning materials into fine fibers, providing high liquid flow rates while effectively trapping particles.

When deciding between these two types of filters, it's important to consider your specific filtration needs—whether you prioritize sediment removal, high flow rates, or durability in challenging conditions. Understanding these differences will help you pick the right filter cartridge for your filtration system so it works really well and lasts a long time. 

What Is A String Wound Filter Cartridge?

A string wound filter cartridge is a crucial part of filtration systems for removing particles from liquids and gases. They are made by tightly winding materials like cotton, polypropylene, or fiberglass around a central core. During manufacturing, yarn is wound around a core in a honeycomb pattern, creating a gradient structure that traps contaminants effectively. These cartridges are robust, withstand tough conditions, and are easy to install and maintain. They're widely used in various industries due to their high filtration standards and cost-effectiveness, but selecting the right one depends on specific particle size, fluid characteristics, and filtration needs.


What Is Spun Filter?

A spun filter is made from thermally bonded polypropylene microfibers, ensuring high efficiency with minimal fiber release and consistent flow rates. They're ideal for food and beverage applications as they don't alter the liquid's color, taste, or odor and can handle temperatures up to 80 degrees Celsius. These filters are effective for removing a wide range of particle sizes and gelatinous contaminants through depth filtration. They're widely used in industries like manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and water treatment for their durability and ability to maintain liquid quality.


Spun Filter Cartridge vs String Wound Filter Cartridge

When comparing string wound filter cartridges to spun filter cartridges, the differences lie primarily in their construction, filtration efficiency, dirt-holding capacity, and cost considerations.

Filtration Efficiency: Spun filter cartridges typically provide higher filtration efficiency for smaller particles, down to a 0.3-micron rating, compared to string wound filters.

Dirt-Holding Capacity: String wound filters have a greater dirt-holding capacity due to their larger void spaces, while spun filters maintain uniform dirt collection throughout their matrix.

Cost: String wound filters are usually cheaper because they are easier to make and use less expensive materials. However, new technologies for making spun filters have made them more affordable.

String Wound Filter vs Spun Filter

Parameter

String Wound Filter Cartridge

Spun Filter Cartridge

Design/Structure

Layers of wound string fibers around a core

Fine mesh of melted and blown thermoplastic fibers around a core

Fluid Path

Water flows through winding spaces between strings

Water passes through fine mesh of melted fibers

Efficiency Rate

Effective for larger particles and sediment removal

Efficient in capturing fine particles

Micron Rating

Typically ranges from 10 to 100 microns

Usually offers a lower micron rating for fine filtration



Applications: String Wound Filters vs Spun Filters

  1. Spun Filters: These filters are ideal for high-efficiency filtration tasks. They are often used as pre-filters in reverse osmosis (RO) systems and in chemical filtration processes because their polypropylene material is compatible with many chemical fluids.
  2. String Wound Filters: These filters are best for applications requiring a high dirt-holding capacity. They are particularly effective in industrial, agricultural, and municipal water treatment. String wound filters excel at removing larger particles and sediment, making them perfect for well water filtering, irrigation, and industrial fluid filtration.

Conclusion


In summary, both string wound and spun filter cartridges are good for industrial filtration, but they work best in different situations and have different costs. When deciding between them, think about what you need to filter, the type of contaminants, and the needs of your specific application.

FAQs

Which spun filter is best?

The best spun filter cartridge is one that offers high filtration efficiency, durability, and a large dirt-holding capacity. Look for filters made with high-quality polypropylene fibers and suitable for your specific water filtration needs.

What is the life of a spun filter?

The life of a spun filter typically ranges from 3 to 6 months, depending on water quality and usage. Regular monitoring and timely replacement ensure optimal filtration efficiency.

What is the efficiency of a string wound filter?

The efficiency of a string wound filter cartridge typically ranges from 90% to 98%, depending on the micron rating. These filters are effective in removing fine particles and contaminants from liquids.