How to Spec a Filter Cart

Noria Corporation
Tags: filter carts, contamination control

A customer recently asked me to take a look at a quote he had received from a local filter distributor on a set of filter carts. As I scanned the fax for information, it became obvious that the quote was just that ... a series of numbers and letters and a price for the equipment that was represented by those numbers and letters. There was absolutely no information on the page about the filter carts’ performance or features other than the option of purchasing one or two filters.

It was apparent that one of two things happened.

It is common for a customer to call the local supplier and inquire about the supplier’s filter carts. The supplier will usually provide only three details – pump displacement in gallons per minute (GPM), price and delivery date. There is usually no mention of filter performance, viscosity limitations or possible options. Most suppliers have standard five GPM, 10 GPM and 15 GPM filter carts stocked and ready to go.

The second possible scenario is that the customer called the supplier and discussed only one or two details that may have included price range and pump displacement in GPM. Either way, there was a lack of understanding on both sides.

Every filter cart should be compatible with the lubricant and the intended application. When considering the addition of a filter cart to your contamination control program, take into account the following:

Other items to consider are oil-resistant tires, air (pneumatic) or electric power, power cord length, a filter bypass valve, suction and return hose length, before and after filter sample valves, a suction strainer, hose end configuration, clogging indicators or differential pressure gauges, vacuum shut-off, seal compatibility, timer, on-line particle counter, color and price.

Now, the mystery behind your filter cart is in your hands. Determine exactly what you need and provide your supplier with the details. The leading suppliers will be able to design the filter cart to meet your exact needs, giving you the most for your investment.