The primary filter in an Air Handling Unit (AHU) is typically a pleated filter. These filters are designed to capture larger airborne particles while allowing sufficient airflow to protect the more expensive, high-efficiency filters downstream in the AHU.
Here’s a breakdown of why pleated filters are ideal as primary filters:
Efficiency:
They offer a good balance between capturing large particles like dust, insects, and lint, and maintaining airflow. This is crucial because the primary filter’s job is to safeguard the more efficient filters from clogging quickly with large debris.
Capacity:
The pleats in the filter media significantly increase the surface area compared to flat panel filters. This allows them to trap and hold more dust before needing replacement, reducing maintenance frequency.
Cost-effective:
While pleated filters have a higher initial cost than disposable panel filters, they last significantly longer and protect the more expensive downstream filters. This translates to overall cost savings in the long run.
Here are some other types of filters that can also be used as primary filters, but are less common:
Panel filters:
These are the most affordable option but also the least efficient. They may be used in low-risk applications or as a pre-filter before a pleated filter for capturing even larger particles.
Electrostatic filters:
These use an electrical charge to attract and trap particles from the air. While effective, they require regular cleaning of the collection plates to maintain efficiency and may not be suitable for all environments due to potential ozone generation.
The best type of primary filter for your AHU will depend on the specific application and the level of air quality required. If you have any doubts, consulting an HVAC professional is recommended.
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