What are the Different Filter Media Types?

Filter media is the material within a filter element that captures contaminant particles. The three major types are microglass (glass fiber) for absolute-rated filtration, cellulose (paper) for nominal-rated applications, and wire mesh for cleanable/reusable elements. Media selection determines efficiency, service life, and cost.

Microglass (Glass Fiber)

Microglass media is made from borosilicate glass fibers bonded with resin. It provides absolute-rated filtration (β ≥ 200) and is the standard for modern hydraulic systems. Advantages include consistent pore size, high beta ratios, and good dirt-holding capacity. Common designations: Pall HC, Hydac 0060D/0110D, Hy-Pro “M” media.

Cellulose (Paper)

Cellulose media is made from wood pulp fibers. It provides nominal filtration only due to inconsistent pore sizes. Advantages include lower cost and good water absorption. Disadvantages are lower beta ratios, shorter service life, and inability to be cleaned. Typically used in low-criticality applications where system cleanliness targets are less demanding.

Wire Mesh and Specialty Media

Wire mesh media is woven stainless steel cloth with precise openings. It is cleanable and reusable, withstands high differential pressures, and is chemically resistant. Used in suction strainers and high-temperature applications. Specialty media includes water-absorbing scrims and static-dissipative materials for phosphate ester fluid systems.

Reference Table

Media Type	Rating	Max Beta	DHC	Cleanable	Relative Cost
Microglass	Absolute	β ≥ 2000+	High	No	$$
Cellulose	Nominal	β ≥ 2–10	Low	No	$
Wire mesh	Nominal	β ≥ 2–5	N/A	Yes	$$$
Synthetic	Absolute	β ≥ 200+	Medium	No	$$
Stainless fiber	Absolute	β ≥ 200+	High	Yes	$$$$

Frequently Asked Questions

Which filter media is best for hydraulic systems?

Microglass (glass fiber) media is the standard for modern hydraulic systems. It provides absolute-rated filtration with high beta ratios and good dirt-holding capacity. Cellulose media is acceptable for non-critical applications where cost is the primary concern.

Can I replace a glass fiber element with cellulose?

Replacing glass fiber with cellulose will significantly reduce filtration efficiency. A glass fiber element at β10 ≥ 200 (99.5%) may be replaced by a cellulose element that only achieves β10 ≥ 2 (50%). This will degrade system cleanliness and may void equipment warranties.

What is water-removing filter media?

Water-removing media combines standard glass fiber filtration with a hydrophilic scrim that absorbs free water from hydraulic fluid. It is used in applications where water ingression is a concern, such as outdoor equipment or systems with reservoir breathers exposed to humidity.

Related Specifications

Beta Ratio Micron Rating Absolute vs Nominal Filtration Dirt Holding Capacity

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