Why are wire mesh filter elements the top choice?
Wire mesh filter elements are among the most durable and versatile solutions in industrial filtration. However, even the highest-quality element loses its effectiveness without regular care—gradually but inevitably. This article explains why they are a worthwhile investment, how to maximize their service life, and when replacement is the most economical option.
In many industrial processes—ranging from hydraulics and chemical processing to food production—the question arises: Which filter element is the right one? Wire mesh filter elements offer a number of decisive advantages over disposable filters made of paper, non-woven fabric, or plastic.
Reusable
Repeated cleaning and reinstallation conserve resources and permanently reduce operating costs.
Precision filtration
Defined mesh sizes ranging from coarser than 40 µm down to 5 µm enable precisely reproducible separation results.
Temperature-resistance
Stainless steel mesh withstands high temperatures and aggressive media that would cause plastic filters to fail.
Mechanically robust
High pressure resistance and a dimensionally stable design—the mesh remains intact even during pressure spikes.
Sustainable
Reduced consumption of materials and less disposal effort. A cleaned element means avoiding the need to purchase a new one.
The flip side of this durability is that wire mesh filter elements require active care. An element that is regularly maintained delivers consistent results over many cycles. One that is neglected can become an invisible weak point in the process.
Technical basics: What you should know about your filter element
Parameter Meaning Note
Fitration rating (µm) Indicates the smallest particle size reliably retained by the mesh. Key parameter
Typical values: 5 / 10 / 25 / 40 / 60 / 100 µm.
Differential pressure (dp) Pressure difference between the untreated and clean sides. If it exceeds the limit, Monitor continously
cleaning or replacement is necessary.
Mesh size Clear opening width within the mesh. A key determinant of flow capacity Depends on the mesh type
and retention capability.
Material Standard: stainless steel 1.4301 (AISI 304) or 1.4401 (AISI 316). Depending on the medium
For aggressive media: special materials on request.
Cleanability All wire mesh elements are generally cleanable. Limitation for ratings of 25 µm and finer.
However, complete restoration of original performance ist not possible.
Operating pressure Up to several hundred bar, depending on design and support structure. System-specific
Always oberserve the manufacturer's specifications.
Carmen Steiner
Sales Filtration Key Accounts"As a rule of thumb: Cleaning should be initiated as soon as the differential pressure across the filter element exceeds the manufacturer-specified limit by 20–30%. For systems without differential pressure monitoring, a time-based interval is recommended—the specific interval depends on the medium, the degree of contamination, and the flow volume. FILCOM assists you in determining the optimal interval for your specific system."
Why the right maintenance interval is so crucial
Wire mesh filter elements perform precise work day in, day out: they capture particles, protect downstream pumps, valves, and measuring instruments, and ensure consistent process quality. However, over time, every filter element begins to work against itself—it becomes clogged.
Delaying intervention has direct consequences: differential pressure rises, volumetric flow drops, and energy costs increase. In the worst-case scenario, breakthrough occurs, allowing dirt particles to pass uncontrollably into the clean side of the system. In highly sensitive processes, this can trigger costly consequential damage.
Important: Performance loss is cumulative and irreversible
Even after professional cleaning, a wire mesh filter element will never regain its original 100% filtration performance—especially with filtration ratings of 25 µm or finer. Micro-fine particles become permanently lodged in the mesh openings, irreversibly narrowing them. Service life decreases continuously with each cleaning cycle. This fact must be factored into maintenance planning.
The two recognized cleaning methods
FILCOM recommends two proven methods that can be employed depending on the level of contamination, filtration rating, and available equipment. Suitable cleaning agents include white spirit or an equivalent solvent compatible with the filter material.
METHOD 1: ULTRASONIC CLEANING
1. Immserse the contaminated filter element in an ultrasonic bath for 90 - 120 minutes (prefereably upright; turn it over if necessary)
2. Afterward, rinse in clean cleaning agent.
3. Carefully blow out the filter element with compressed air, directing the flow from the clean side outwards.
Recommended for all filtration ratings. High-frequency vibrations gently dislodge even stubborn particles from the mesh.
NOTE: Suitable only for filtration ratings coarser than 40 µm.
1. Remove coarse external dirt using a brush and cleaning agent (e.g., cleaning spirit / white spirit).
2. Place the filter element in cleaning fluid for approx. 20 minutes.
3. Rinse from the inside out.
4. Blow out with compressed air, directing the flow form the clean side (inside) outwards.
Performance decreases with each cleaning - plan for replacement in good time.
Especially with fine filtration ratings (25 µm and finer), effective filtration performance drops after just a few cleaning cycles to a level no longer sufficient for the original process requirements. Waiting too long risks undetected leaks in the mesh completely compromising the filtration protection.
Practical recommendation: Plan for proactive replacement.
Maintain a simple maintenance log: Record the date, the differential pressure (∆p) before and after cleaning, and any visual observations regarding the mesh condition. If cleaning intervals become noticeably shorter or the ∆p value fails to return to the original level after cleaning, replacement is more cost-effective than further cleaning. FILCOM is happy to advise you on this decision.
FILCOM – Filtration solutions with personal service
For decades, FILCOM has stood for filtration solutions capable of meeting demanding industrial requirements. Our commitment extends far beyond the mere supply of filter elements: we view ourselves as a long-term partner, supporting our customers throughout the entire lifecycle of their filtration system—from initial design to scheduled replacement.
Application Consulting
We analyze your medium, process, and pressure conditions to recommend the optimal filtration rating, suitable material, and correct element design.
On-Site Service
Our technicians visit your facility to conduct site assessments, record machine data, and compile a complete list of filters for your equipment.
Machine List & Documentation
We catalog all relevant filter elements in your production facility, recording the type, filtration rating, installation location, and recommended maintenance interval in a structured machine list.
Reminder Service
Based on your machine list, we automatically remind you of upcoming maintenance dates—via email or phone, according to your preference.
Spare Parts Supply
Rapid delivery of standard elements from stock. Custom dimensions and special materials are available upon request; we also manufacture small batches.
Training & Knowledge Transfer
Upon purchase, we provide you and your maintenance team with specific guidance on cleaning methods, proper handling, and replacement criteria.
The FILCOM On-Site Service: Your equipment, fully documented
Many operators are familiar with the challenge: dozens—sometimes hundreds—of filter elements operate across a wide variety of machines and systems. With differing types, filtration ratings, and maintenance cycles, keeping track of everything is a complex task. This is where FILCOM steps in.
Upon request, a FILCOM technician will visit your plant to record all relevant machine data in collaboration with your maintenance team. The result is a complete, structured machine list detailing every installed filter element—forming the foundation for an effective reminder service.
Scheduling & Preparation
Contact FILCOM by phone or email. We will arrange a visit and discuss in advance which systems and areas need to be surveyed.
On-site Inventory
Our technician systematically records all installed filter elements: installation location, type, filtration rating, material, nominal size, operating medium, and maintenance history—wherever known.
Creating the equipment list
Based on the survey, we create a structured equipment list. We assign a recommended cleaning interval and replacement cycle to each filter element.
Setting up the reminder service
You decide how you would like to be reminded—via email, phone call, or as a scheduled delivery. We set up the intervals and handle timely notifications.
Ongoing updates
Do your systems change? Are new machines added or components replaced? No problem—we update your machine list upon request and adjust the reminder intervals accordingly.
Schedule an on-site appointment now!
Let FILCOM document your system, create a machine list, and set up a personalized reminder service. Get in touch with us—we’ll come to you.