In reference to pleated filter media cartridges for industrial dust collectors, the answer is yes...and no! It mostly depends on the filter media that is used or required for a given application. Filters cartridges that are made of spun bond polyester can be washed - that is, removed from the dust collector and washed down with low pressure water. Once completely dry, they can be reinstalled in the collector. Filter cartridges that are made of untreated (cellulose) paper should not get wet at any time.So when would you use washable filters in a dust collector? These are ideally suited to tough applications including heavy dust loading conditions, hot/moist air streams, high levels of fine particulate, and/or hygroscopic dust properties which may limit performance of cellulosic type filters. In many food/beverage applications, equipment is often required to be washed - inside and out - periodically. Of course, if a filter cartridge is claimed to be washable, be certain that the end caps and any integral metal components are treated to be in contact with water as well. Be sure to ask the filter cartridge supplier (you'd be surprised). Learn more about pleated cartridge filter media types here.
