You can use activated carbon filters (ACFs) for filtering fluids and odors in industrial as well as domestic applications. Activated carbon filters have high porosity and offer more filtering area as compared to conventional filters. These pores are very effective in adsorbing odors, gases and liquid contaminants, but allow fluid to pass through the pores. General examples of an activated carbon filter include a medical filter, an activated carbon water filter, an activated carbon air filter and a beverage purification system.

Application of an ACF depends on its activated carbon filter media. A granular activated carbon filter has a high rate of diffusion. Therefore, you can use it for water treatment, deodorization and separation of pollutants. An extruded and cylindrical shaped activated carbon filter has high mechanical strength and low dust content. You can use it for gas phase applications.

The selection of an activated carbon filter depends on three important parameters given below:

1. Fluid to be filtered using the activated carbon filter
2. Flow rate and density of the fluid
3. Pollutant or the contaminant to be filtered

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Understand the functions of an activated carbon filter and its applications

In an ACF, gravitational or induced draft forces the fluid through the activated carbon pad. Pores adsorb the contaminants and the filtered fluid passes through it. You can learn more about ACFs from online guides provided by different organizations and companies.

I recommend: You can refer to the guide about ACF, by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Abatement Technologies, an air filter manufacturer, explains the applications of an activated carbon filter in heating, ventilation and the air conditioning industry.

Choose an activated carbon filter offered by a reputable filter manufacturer

Most of the leading filter manufacturers offer activated carbon filters for air, water and chemicals. You can select an appropriate model provided by various manufacturers.

I recommend: Siemens is a major filter manufacturer that offers industrial activated carbon filters. Austin Air Systems offers various small sized filters suitable for in-house applications. Filter Innovations provides ACFs suitable for different vapor and liquid phase applications.

Explore retailer's websites to buy different activated carbon filters at good prices

Retailers offer various types of filters for wide applications. You can buy an activated carbon filter from these retailers at a good price.

I recommend: Chemical Online is a specialty online retailer for industrial chemical products including activated carbon filters. Filter Sales and Service offers different filtration products and services.

Reactivate ACFs to avoid breakdown of your activated carbon filter system

After certain usage, an ACF's filtering capacity decreases due to a large amount of contaminants adsorption. In such cases, you can replace it or reactivate it using various physical and chemical reactivation processes such as carbonization, oxidation and chemical impregnation.

I recommend: Calgon Carbon Corp. offers pyrolytic reactivation services for industrial activated carbon filters. California Carbon Co. Inc. provides both standard and custom reactivation services. Multi-Pure Corporation replaces ACFs and parts.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Check the useful life of your activated carbon filter before buying a new one.