SAF Series Air Particulate Filters

What is the difference between particulate and coalescing filters?

Particulate filters remove particulates and moisture by forcing air through a single filtration medium.  Typically this medium, commonly referred as filter element, will be porous, allowing air to pass through and catching moisture and debris.  The filtration efficiency is measured by the size of the openings present in the filter medium, measured in micrometers (commonly referred to as micron, or μm symbol).

Coalescing filters will either have an element or cartridge that consists of multiple layers, sometimes of varying material types and micron sizes.  Having air pass through a coalescing element will cause particulates and moisture to collect to a much finer degree, as filtration is achieved through the multiple layers.  Coalescing filters will have much lower micron ratings, but will exhibit lower flow rates, as air will face much more restriction than through a particulate filter.

When should a metal bowl be used over a polycarbonate bowl?

Although filters are rated for maximum supply pressure of 250psi, when supply pressure will exceed 150psi, we recommend using metal bowls.  Polycarbonate bowls are susceptible to cracking when exposed to the high pressure.

If the compressed air may contain solvents harmful to polycarbonate or synthetic oil may be present, metal bowls are recommended for use.

What is the standard micron rating for particulate filters?  Are there other micron options available?

Standard micron rating for SAF series filters is 10 micron.   There are 2, 5, 20, & 40 micron options available, but subject to stock availability.  Contact us for customized micron rating availability.

How does the automatic drain work? Can the automatic drain be manually drained?

The automatic drain option for SAF2000 series filters are differential type drains which feature a diaphragm seated just above the drain area.  When pressure above this diaphragm is lower than pressure below, the drain valve lifts open to flush out collected moisture/debris.  

All other sized filters feature an internal float automatic drain.  This drain is normally open and closes as the system is pressurized.  Moisture that accumulates at the bottom of the filter bowl push the float up until the drain valve is opened to allow the contents to drain. 

All automatic drains can be manually drained as needed by pushing up against the drain opening from the bottom of the filter bowl.

How do I change air flow direction to the other direction (right to left)?

As standard flow direction is left to right, the flow direction can be switched to flow right to left by turning the unit around 180 degrees. There are directional arrows on the unit that indicate the flow direction.  The bowl can be unlocked by pushing down the gray arrow tab to rotate to the new front position.

How can I remove the filter bowl?

For miniature filters (SAF200/SAF2000 series), the bowl can be removed by simply unscrewing the bowl.  Depending on bowl type, the o-ring may fall out or stay stuck on the filter housing.

For all other filter sizes: Locate the gray tab with arrow pointing down, located at the top of the filter bowl.  Pressing the tab down, rotate the bowl so that the tab is in line with either corner of the filter housing (at 10 o’clock or 2 o’clock position).  The bowl is now positioned with its locking tabs free from the filter housing.  Pull the bowl apart from the filter housing. 

The bowl can be connected to the filter housing by inserting the bowl at the same corner position and rotating the gray tab to the front position.  The tab will click into place, indicating the bowl is again locked into the filter housing.

Can filter elements be cleaned?  When should I replace elements?

Yes, the elements are polyethylene material which can be cleaned with water and cleaning solvent occasionally.  Elements are recommended to be replaced every 6 months or if pressure drop exceeds 7psi.