Filter Cartridges are a system. This system includes CORES, MEDIA (Filtration Fabric), BANDS, and END CAPS. At Pleatco, we talk about ‘Fluid Dynamics’. Pleatco does research and works with the best companies in the world to design the strongest and most efficient filters. A properly designed core MAXIMIZES the filtration area, increases flow, and creates uniform flow distribution through the entire cartridge increasing its life and the cleanliness of your water. Simple!
It all starts at the core: Pleatco FREE FLOW CORES deliver better water flow rates enhancing filtration. This efficiency reduces wear and tear on the pump, uses less energy, and provides longer life to the cartridge. Proper flow is important as many home owners switch to energy efficient multiple and variable speed pumps.
Media (Reemay Filtration Fabric): Highly efficient, spun bonded polyester REEMAY Filtration Fabric is used in all Pleatco Filter Cartridges because it’s the best!
Bands that ensure pleat stability: Pleatco break-resistant bands keep the pleats clearly defined and evenly separated for increased water flow. In competitors’ cartridges, low quality bands fall off and cause collapsed pleats which decreases a filter’s life span; poor flow increases back pressure throughout the entire filtration system.
Antimicrobial End Caps (with part numbers): Pleatco end caps are formulated to withstand chlorine degradation. Pleatco Filter Cartridges end caps are 100% Antimicrobial which prohibits the growth of odor causing bacteria. Pleatco’s part numbers are clearly displayed on all end caps.
See the images below for more detail on the anatomy of the Pleatco filter cartridge:
MEDIA
The MEDIA serves as the filtration surface. At Pleatco, we only use REEMAY media, the highest quality spun bonded polyester material for all of our filter cartridges.
White: High grade, cost effective spun bonded polyester.
Blue: High grade, cost effective spun bonded polyester with REEMAY MICROBAN antimicrobial technology.
PLEATS
The number of PLEATS and the total amount of media used in a filter cartridge impacts the quality and performance of the filtration. The amount of media in a Pleatco Filter Cartridge meets, or in many cases, exceeds the original equipment specifications providing quality performance and extends the life of the product.
END CAPS
The END CAP helps to provide structural support and increase filter cartridge durability. Unlike any other filter cartridges manufactured for the pool & spa marketplace, Pleatco Filter Cartridges have end caps that are 100% Antimicrobial. This enables Pleatco Filter Cartridges to be more effective in prohibiting the growth of mold, and reducing mildew and odor causing bacteria.
You may find different color Pleatco end caps (blue & orange) which help differentiate OEM specified products. Unlike most competitors the Pleatco PART NUMBER is boldly molded into the end cap for quick and easy identification.
PLEATCO FREE FLOW CORES
Pleatco FREE FLOW CORES provide longitudinal support and allow for the free flow of water through the MEDIA increasing the effectiveness of the filtration.
Pleatco FREE FLOW CORES are superior as they are designed to significantly enhance the filtration process over any other competitive product. Pleatco’s cores are ‘engineered’ as opposed to all other cartridge manufacturers who simply use PVC pipe with holes drilled in them. Pleatco FREE FLOW CORES deliver better water flow rates, giving enhanced filtration and reducing wear and tear on the pump and therefore, also uses less energy.
BAND
The BAND keeps the pleats separated helping water to easily flow through the filter. Pleatco’s bands are the strongest in the market and ensure that the pleats are separated even under great stress.