Types of Filter MediaWhy you need to know your filter media In order to filter your air correctly you need to know what media you would need. There are a multitude of filter media selections for dust collection. The most common are 80/20 Media. This media consists of an 80% Cellulose, 20% spunbond polyester base. This is a good media for most applications and the most common generic filter media in dust collection. The addition of the spunbond polyester component adds strength and moisture resistance to the original 100% cellulose cartridges of old school dust collection cartridges. This helps with filter longevity, cleaning, and efficiencies. Most 80/20 medias are MERV 13 rated and available in fire retardant or non-fire-retardant configurations. Typical efficiencies (by weight) exceed 99.9% down to 0.3 microns. Nanofiber filtersNanofiber is considered a premium or best technology in comparison to 80/20 media in most cases. The manufacturers of nanofiber basically take a standard 80/20 or cellulose based media and overly or impregnate a layer of “nano” fibers, which are very small particles. This makes the media highly efficient and more cleanable-both factors that are highly desirable in dust collection. For this reason, nanofiber has become the most recommended filter media in dry dust applications. In layman’s terms, a nanofiber filter typically lasts 10-20% longer than an 80/20 filter because of the superior cleanability of the filter. At MERV 15 ratings, it also offers a higher efficiency. Typical efficiencies (by weight) exceed 99.99% down to 0.3 microns. It is also available in a fire retardant or non-fire-retardant configuration. Spunbond PolyesterIn areas of dust collection where high abrasion resistance or moisture resistance is needed, the most common go to media is 100% spunbond polyester. This is a highly durable media that holds up well to abrasives such as aggregates or concrete. It also can be ordered in a hydro-oleophobic configuration that is high