Screen filters remove pollutants and contaminants from water and other liquids used in irrigation or industrial applications. Organic matter such as algae requires self-cleaning screen filters since they can turn into string-like strands that block the efficiency of ordinary filters.

Self-cleaning screens also called automatic filters, overcome this challenge through their automatic backwash cycle. Below are 6 tips to help you choose the right screen filter.

1. Characteristics of Prevalent Materials

If you understand the type and size of materials filtered, you are in a better position to select the right micron size for the filter. It is important to observe the particulars of the pollutants in order to make a prudent decision. Pond water, for example, largely contains organic matter such as algae and leaves, while well water contains inorganic debris such as sand pebbles.

You require a smaller screen for inorganic materials to trap sand that would otherwise pass through large microns. Similarly, only big screens can filter organic matter effectively. The same is true for other liquids such as honey, paint, etc.

2. Flow Rate

The flow rate is determined by the operating system. It should, therefore, dictate the type of filter you buy. The size of the filter should be able to accommodate the operating system. The backwashing or self-cleaning filter you choose is dictated by, among other factors, the minimum and maximum flow rate.

3. Operating Pressure

Filters are rated for their maximum operational capacity. An accurate measurement of the maximum pressure informs the selection of a filter. Only automatic, self-cleaning filters require a minimum operating pressure. In addition, a minimum operating pressure must be maintained when the filter’s flushing mechanism is engaged.

4. Low Pressure

Low pressure is a result of a pressure drop, which is caused by the resistance a liquid faces as it is forced through a filter for purification. Other determinants of pressure drops are the filter media, contaminants present, flow rate, and viscosity.

Should you care about pressure drops? Yes. This is because as the pressure drop increases, a point is reached where the desired flow through the filter is compromised. On the other hand, if the pressure drop is too high, the filter will eventually clog. When the pressure differential across the screen reaches a preset level, the M100 piston and pistonless filters start the self-cleaning process.

5. Cost of Operation

The long-term cost of operation is key when choosing a screen filter. Automatic, self-cleaning filters may cost more initially, but they could turn out to be a good bargain in the end. If you consider labour and downtime costs, costs of manually cleaning the filter, and waste disposal costs, automatic, self-cleaning filters are actually more cost-effective.

6. Exposure Risk

If you aim at filtering highly toxic liquids, be sure to choose a suitable screen filter because not all are suited for such. It is also imperative you determine if environmental exposure to the liquid is acceptable or not. This is a critical consideration you must not take for granted.

Choosing a screen filter may appear a simple and straightforward task, but, as you realize from this discussion, there are a number of factors to consider. These include the cost, exposure to risk, flow rate, pressure, etc. Due diligence is key in making sure you get the right filter for a specific application and purpose.

If you are not keen, you may end up making the wrong choice. A screen filter catching very few debris, for example, may damage the whole system, or your finished product. You need to be certain the screen filter you purchase has the capacity to deliver a quality service.