|
A
Word About Filtration Requirements |
| |
| There are few
areas more confusing than identifying dirt retention requirements when
it comes to air filters. Most vehicle owner’s manuals remain silent on
the point. In fact, few air filter manufacturers publish any
information as to the filtration efficiency of their filters. This
stands in marked contrast to oil and fuel filters where there is a
relatively large amount of information regarding filtration requirements
and capabilities. Studies have shown most engine wear is caused by
particles 10 to 20 microns in size. K&N air filters, like most quality
disposable air filters, provide excellent filtration of these particles.
|
| |
| To ensure our
air filters provide a high level of dirt protection, we regularly test
our air filter designs using the testing procedure described above.
Those tests demonstrate K&N air filters generally achieve overall
filtration efficiency in the range of 97% - 98%, while some of our air
filter designs have achieved levels as high as 99%. The fact that our
air filters at times reach overall filtration efficiencies as high as
99% while maintaining high airflow is a testament to the quality and
capabilities of our oil impregnated cotton air filter medium.
|
| |
| On occasion we
see “new” air filter media’s developed and sold under the premise they
provide increased levels of dirt filtration. More often than not, as
opposed to quoting specific efficiency numbers, this “increased
protection” is described as increased dirt retention capacity, meaning
the filter can hold more dirt before requiring replacement. Remember,
K&N air filters have always provided a service life in excess of
disposable filters and then only require cleaning and oiling for re-use.
|
| |
|
We encourage
customers to do their homework and be aware of the filtration
capabilities of an air filter before they buy. Our own testing has
revealed wide differences in filtering capabilities. We were surprised
to see some disposable paper air filters with an overall filtration
efficiency as low as 93%. We hope we have provided enough information
to ensure consumers know what they are getting when they buy a K&N air
filter.
|
