Filter Bags vs Filter Candles: Which is best for your needs?

Choosing the right filtration system can be a challenge, especially if you have to choose between filter bags and filter candles. Both options are widely used in different industries, but each has unique advantages depending on your specific needs. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between filter bags and filter candles, their applications, and help you determine which is best for your filtration needs.

What are Filter Bags?

Filter bags, as the name suggests, are bag-type filters used to remove solids from liquids. They are popular in industries such as chemical, food and water treatment because of their large capacity and easy replacement. Filter bags are often used in batch processes where large amounts of liquid must be filtered at one time.

Benefits of Filter Bags:

1. Large capacity: Filter bags can absorb large amounts of solids, making them ideal for applications where there is a lot of contamination.
2. Low cost: They are relatively inexpensive compared to other filtration technologies, especially when you consider their longevity and easy installation.
3. Easy replacement: Changing a filter bag is easy and requires little technical knowledge.
4. Wide Application: Filter bags are available in different materials and micronages, making them suitable for a variety of applications, from coarse filtration to fine filtration.

Disadvantages of Filter Bags:

1. Less accurate: Compared to filter candles, filter bags can sometimes offer less accurate filtration, especially with very fine particles.
2. Lower pressure resistance: They cannot handle high pressure as well as filter candles, which means they are less suitable in some applications.

Discover our Filter Bags

What are Filter Candles?

Filter candles are cylindrical filters used primarily in situations where high accuracy is required. They offer greater control over the degree of filtration and are often used in processes where very fine particles must be removed. Filter candles are often used in the pharmaceutical industry, food industry and in filtering drinking water.

Benefits of Filter Candles:

1. High filtration accuracy: Filter candles can filter particles down to a few microns, making them suitable for applications requiring very clean fluids.
2. Pressure-resistant: Due to their cylindrical shape and choice of material, filter candles can withstand high pressure and operate in demanding conditions without collapsing.
3. Longevity: Filter candles generally last longer than filter bags, especially in processes with lower loads.
4. More hygienic: For applications in the food or pharmaceutical industries, for example, filter candles are often a better choice because of their hygienic properties and the ability to be sterilized.

Disadvantages of Filter Candles:

1. Smaller capacity: Compared to filter bags, filter candles cannot absorb as large amounts of dirt, meaning they need to be replaced more often in contaminated applications.
2. Higher cost: Filter candles tend to be more expensive to buy and maintain, especially if you choose high-end models.

Discover our Filter Candles

Applications of Filter Bags and Filter Candles

Choosing the right type of filter depends greatly on the application. Below we list the most common applications for filter bags and filter candles:

• Filter bags:
  • Chemical industry: Filter bags are often used to purify chemical mixtures by removing large amounts of solids from the liquid.
  • Food industry: In batch processes, filter bags can help filter particles from liquids without interrupting the flow of liquid.
  • Water Treatment: Filter bags are ideal for filtering surface water and wastewater, where large amounts of debris may be present.
• Filter candles:
  • Pharmaceuticals: Filter candles offer the precision needed to remove even the smallest particles and meet strict hygiene standards.
  • Food industry: In situations where filtration of smaller particles is crucial, such as when filtering drinking water or dairy products, filter candles are the best choice.
  • Electronics industry: In the production of semiconductors or other electronics, filter candles can help keep liquids extremely clean.

Which is best for your needs?

Now that you know the basic differences, the question arises: which type of filter best suits your filtration needs? The answer depends on several factors, including:

1. The size of the particles to be filtered: If you are dealing with very fine particles (less than 1 micron), filter candles are the better choice. For larger particles (above 10 microns), filter bags can do well.
2. Capacity and flow rate: For applications where large volumes of liquid must be filtered, filter bags often offer the best solution because of their greater capacity. Filter candles are better suited for smaller flows where accuracy is required.
3. Cost: Filter bags are usually cheaper to purchase, but if you are looking for a long-term solution with fewer replacements, filter candles may be more cost-effective in the long run.
4. Environmental conditions: If your filtration system operates under high pressure, filter candles are more able to withstand the strain. For less demanding environments, filter bags are usually sufficient.

Need advice? Get in touch!

Both filter bags and filter candles have their own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the specific requirements of your process. Filter bags are ideal for applications where large volumes of liquids with relatively large particles must be filtered at low cost. Filter candles, on the other hand, offer the precision and durability needed in demanding environments where very clean liquids are required.

If you need help choosing the right filtration system, the team at JMF Filters is here to advise and guide you to the best solution for your specific situation. Get in touch and get advice.