Understanding Filter Media: Which Type Is Right for Your Process?

Western Separations™ Resource Series

Choosing a filtration system is only half the equation. The filter media you select — the actual material doing the work — directly impacts performance, efficiency, and reliability.

From cartridges to bags to membranes and beyond, this guide breaks down the most common types of filter media and helps you match the right one to your industrial process.

1. Cartridge Filters

Best for: Liquids with fine to medium particulates in low-to-moderate flow applications
These cylindrical filters are compact, easy to install, and come in varying micron ratings. They’re often used in food processing, water treatment, and chemicals.

Pros: Precise filtration, small footprint
Cons: Frequent replacement in high-volume systems

2. Bag Filters

Best for: High-flow or high-volume applications with larger particulates
Bag filters are cost-effective and ideal for removing bulk contaminants. Common in automotive, paints, coatings, and large-scale industrial wash systems.

Pros: High dirt-holding capacity, quick changeouts
Cons: Less precision compared to cartridges or membranes

3. Membrane Filters

Best for: Ultra-fine filtration and separation of bacteria, viruses, or dissolved solids
Membranes are the go-to in pharma, biotech, and high-purity water systems. They function via micro-, ultra-, nano-, or reverse osmosis.

Pros: Exceptional precision
Cons: Higher cost, sensitive to fouling

4. Depth Filters

Best for: Viscous liquids or variable contaminant loads
These filters trap particles throughout the thickness of the media, not just on the surface — ideal for unpredictable or multi-stage applications.

Pros: Long service life, good for variable loads
Cons: Less precise than membranes

5. Specialty Media

This includes activated carbon, resin-based, ceramic, and hybrid filters. Each is designed for specific chemical, odor, or ionic removal.

Need a custom solution? We can spec and source it.

At Western Separations™, We Build Systems Around the Right Media — Not the Other Way Around

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Our approach starts with your contaminant profile, flow rate, and compliance needs, then recommends filter media that balances performance, lifespan, and cost.

💬 Want Help Selecting the Right Filter Media?

Request a Quote or Contact Us — let’s engineer it right from the start.