The beta factor indicates the efficiency of a filter with respect to the size of the particles.
If we say, for example, that a filter is Beta 2 at 10 microns, it means that the filter lets through one out of every two particles larger than 10 microns.
A beta 1000 filter at 10 microns will allow only one particle out of every thousand to pass, larger than 10 microns.
We can indicate the efficiency of the filter in beta factor or in percentage.
Beta2=50%
Beta1000=99.9%
Let's imagine that we have diesel with 4,500 particles larger than 4 microns in a milliliter.
This would be the equivalent of an ISO 19 code. We want to get to code 18. That would be having less than 2,500 particles in a milliliter of diesel.
We analyze the efficiency graph of the GESPASA 15-micron water-absorbing cartridge. This is a beta mil cartridge at 30 microns. We see that its efficiency at 4 microns is 52%.
4500 minus 52%=2160 particles. We have achieved a code 18.
If we had 6,000 particles larger than 4 microns, we would not achieve code 18 in a single pass with this filter.
We can improve efficiency by installing a more restrictive cartridge, or by filtering in two stages.
If we install a more restrictive filter, we will increase the filtration efficiency in a single pass. As a negative point, the filter will saturate much faster.
If we filter in two stages, we will increase the efficiency and prolong the life of the filter elements.
For more information consult the www.gespasa.es
