GE Osmonics unique one-step manufacturing process continuously extrudes and thermally bonds pure polypropylene microfibers into a complex filter matrix. Microfilaments plus precise control maximize the positive filtration characteristics of graded density, tight micron cutoffs and maximum void area with millions of tortuous paths. This fully automated manufacturing process assures consistent quality, filter to filter, year in and year out. New thermal and vacuum finishing procedures produce exceptionally clean filters imprinted for easy identification in the field. An Entirely New Technology Years ago there were string-wound cartridge filters. Later, chopped fiber cartridges cemented with binders were developed. Then in 1978, Hytrex dramatically improved cartridge filter performance. Proprietary technology supported by 23 patents made Hytrex filters unique in the cartridge filtration industry. Since 1978, field experience in hundreds of applications has proved Hytrex filters superiority. Thousands of repeat customers have confirmed Hytrex filters value. GE Osmonics research, engineering and manufacturing expertise has generated further improvements to Hytrex. What Hytrex Is Not it is not strings of yarn mechanically wound around a separate core with added lubricants and anti-static agents. it is not short chopped fibers molded together with chemical binders. it is not layers of non-woven microfibers. Pleated, molded and layered microfiber cartridges function for the most part only as surface filters. Particles collect primarily on the surface, blinding the filter and reducing its effective life. In molded filters, binders such as melamine, formaldehyde and phenols become extractables and leach into the filtrate. Their decomposition allows fibers to loosen and migrate. In string-wound filters, additives can leach and particles can slip through channels in the windings, contaminating the filtrate. What Hytrex Filters Offer That Other Cartridges Cannot True Graded Density lower density at the surface of the filter with progressively higher density toward the center. particles are trapped throughout the entire cross section of the filter, creating superior dirt-holding capacity. no surface blinding, which reduces flow and increases filter changeouts. high flow rates with low pressure drop throughout the range of flows. longest service life compared with competitive cartridge filters. Thermally-Bonded Microfiber Construction thermally fixed fibers will not move under pressure or pressure surges and dislodge dirt into the filtrate. extremely small continuous filaments maximize controlled porosity and complex tortuous paths. high structural strength and integrity provide excellent end sealing. lowest media migration ensures no fiber contamination of the filtrate. patented thermally-bonded blown microfiber process assures consistent performance, filter to filter. A Single Pure Material highest quality lot-controlled polypropylene. contains no wetting agents, solvents, anti-static agents, binders or additives of any kind. inert material means broad chemical compatibility. no leachables or extractables. incinerates to trace ash with no hazardous volatiles, for easy disposal. meets the requirements of the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for food and beverage contact. Automated Continuous Manufacturing continuous construction in lengths of 1 in. (3.8 cm) to 50 in. (127 cm) with no joints or welds. self-supporting media requires no separate central core. marked with micron rating right on the cartridge for easy filter identification. thermal and vacuum finishing procedures virtually eliminate manufacturing debris. integral pure polypropylene end adapters fit filter housings without bypass. machine packaging and sealing of each cartridge provides clean filters in the field. automated, consistent manufacturing assures reliable performance and repeatable results year after year.