Inline Filter

Inline Filter

Inline or simply line filters are devices that attach to pre-existing ductwork or tubing to remove impurities and liquids from an air stream, thereby protecting the receiving equipment from contamination. Inline filters are popular in many settings as they are an economic option for essential filtration with regards to both money and space. This particular mechanism is found in many different systems including transportation, HVAC systems, air compressors and even common appliances such as vacuum cleaners. These uses necessitate that inline filters be relatively compact in order to fit in the space permitted, but still versatile as ventilation systems inherently vary. While often times these are a standard feature of air filtration systems, they may easily be added into pre-existing airflow systems. Many companies offer universal adaptors for just this reason. Inline filters are placed near the intake valve and before expansion valves to ensure heavy particles and potentially damaging water vapors are trapped before entering essential components of the machine. Inline filters are also common as liquid filters as seen in many residential water purification systems.

The general scheme of the inline filter is as follows. A capsule-like cylinder is attached, with secure and airtight seals, to the midsection of pre-existing airflow components such as ductwork or tubes. Air flows through the initial tubing or ductwork and into the capsule. Within the capsule there are two chambers separated by a filtration device. Air is drawn through the filter while contaminants and vapors become trapped. Filtered air then continues through the second portion of tubing or ductwork and into the desired equipment. Ensuring that only clean dry air is passed through and sometimes moved directly to air powered tools such as spray and nail guns protects the equipment improving its useful life and product performance. The materials chosen for filter panels within the inline filter depend upon the level of filtration desired and include acrylic, aluminum wire screen, electrostatic fabric, fiberglass, paper, polyester, cotton or any combination. Each of these materials allows air, but not particulates to pass into machine. The construction of the capsule, which may also be box like, depends largely on the fabrication of the pre-existing airflow system. Aluminum, polyethylene, galvanized and stainless steel are common options for housing components. Features such as UV light and chemical reactions can also be utilized to further purification and eliminate additional components.