Webster describes a micron as: A metric unit of measure used to describe the size of molecules, colloidal particles, and other microscopic objects. A micron or micrometer is equal to 0.000001 meter or 1/25400 inch.
What types of objects are measured in 1 millionth of a meter?
| OBJECT Viruses Asbestos Paint Pigment Bacteria Yeast White Blood Cell Pollen Pin Point Human Hair Silica Sand |
MICRON SIZE .01 – .1 microns (requires nanofiltration to remove) .08 – .8 microns (requires nanofiltration to remove) 1 .5 microns .5 – 50 microns 2 -15 microns 25 – 30 microns 10 – 90 microns (limit of unaided detection) 75 microns 80 – 100 microns 100 – 200 microns |
KEEP THIS IN MIND
When ordering a filter, first know what you want to filter out, then size accordingly. It’s a common mistake to size smaller than what is actually needed. This results in:
- Higher initial cost
- More maintenance
- More frequent filter changes or backwashing
- More removed particulate = greater volume of particulate to dispose of
Many times a mesh micron or decimal inch rating is required. The following chart converts the most common sizes.