Micron Ratings – A Better Understanding & Breakdown

When choosing a filter or strainer for your system, micron ratings tell you how small the particles are that your filter can catch. In simple terms, the smaller the micron rating, the finer the filter. Whether you’re in water treatment, chemical processing, or any industry that relies on micron filtration, knowing the right micron size can help prevent clogging, protect equipment, and ensure better fluid quality.

This guide will explain micron ratings, compare common sizes, and help you choose the best micron filter for your needs.

What Is a Micron Rating?

Micron ratings indicate the size of particles a filter can trap. One micron equals one millionth of a meter or 0.000039 inches.

• A micron is a unit of measure used to rate filters.
• It defines the smallest particle a filter can capture.
• Micron ratings range from 1 to 800+, depending on the application.

Micron Conversion Quick Facts:

• 1 micron = 0.001 millimeters
• 25.4 microns = visible with magnification
• 40–90 microns = about the diameter of human hair

Why Micron Ratings Matter in Filtration

The right micron rating ensures that your system filters out unwanted particles without clogging too quickly. A too-small rating may cause fast debris buildup, while a too-large rating may allow contaminants through.

Micron filtering is essential across industries:

• Alimentos y bebidas: to maintain safety and taste
• Oil & Gas: to protect pumps and lines
• Plantas químicas: for precise product quality
• Tratamiento de agua: for removing sediments and pathogens

Common Micron Ratings and Their Applications

Each filter rating serves a purpose. Here’s a breakdown of the most used micron filtration levels.

• 5 Micron Filter

Removes particles as small as 0.005 mm, including fine dust, silt, and large bacteria. It offers good clarity while allowing a reasonable flow rate.
✅ Best for: Food processing, residential water systems, and polishing filters in multi-stage setups
⚠️ Can clog quickly in sediment-heavy applications; may require pre-filtering.

• 10 Micron Filter

Removes particles down to 0.01 mm such as fine sand, debris, and pollen. It’s commonly used where moderate filtration is needed without sacrificing too much flow.
✅ Best for: Industrial filtration in oil, gas, and chemical plants
⚠️ May not be effective for microbial contaminants; consider pairing with finer filters.

• 25 Micron Filter

Filters out particles about 0.025 mm in size, including visible rust flakes and some fine sediment. It strikes a good balance between flow rate and filtration depth.
✅ Best for: Pre-filtration in commercial and industrial water systems
⚠️ Not suitable for applications needing fine particulate control.

• 50 Micron Filter

Captures large particles around 0.05 mm like sand, scale, and pipe corrosion. Helps protect downstream filters from premature clogging.
✅ Best for: Initial filtration stage in irrigation, HVAC, and industrial processes
⚠️ Will not remove smaller particles or improve water clarity significantly.

Micron Size Comparison Chart

This chart shows different micron sizes, what you can see with the eye, and examples of what each size filters. It helps you pick the right micron filter for better micron filtration.

Micron Size	Visibility	Common Examples
1 micron	Not visible	Bacteria, carbon dust
5 micron	Not visible	Large bacteria, fine sand
10 micron	Not visible	Pollen, cement dust
25 micron	Not visible	White blood cells, textile fibers
50 micron	Visible	Human hair, fine grain particles
100+ micron	Visible	Sand, rust flakes, large debris

Absolute vs. Nominal Micron Ratings

There are two types of micron filter ratings:

• Absolute Rating

Captures 100% of particles at the stated size.
✅ Used in critical filtration like pharmaceutical or microelectronics.

• Nominal Rating

Captures 80–90% of particles at the stated size.
✅ Common in general industrial and residential use.

How to Choose the Right Micron Rating

Selecting the proper micron filtering level depends on:

1. Particle Size: Identify the type and size of contaminants—visible particles like sand or invisible ones like bacteria. Use lower micron ratings for finer particles.
2. Caudal: Smaller micron ratings reduce flow due to tighter pores. Match your micron filter to your system’s pressure limits and pump capability.
3. System Use: Critical applications (like pharmaceuticals or food processing) often require 1–5 micron micron filtration. For general use, 10–50 micron filters are typically enough.
4. Pre-filtration: Apply a staged approach—start with 50 microns for large debris, followed by 25 or 10-micron filters. This layered method extends filter life and improves overall micron filtering performance.

If unsure, start larger and move smaller in stages to avoid early clogging.

Conclusion: Why Micron Ratings Are Key in Filtration

Understanding micron ratings helps you choose the right filter for your specific process. It prevents system damage, reduces maintenance, and improves product or water quality. Whether in a heavy industrial setup or managing residential water, micron filtration ensures efficiency and protection.

If you’re looking for high-quality filtration solutions, Lianke Valve offers durable and reliable filters and strainers built for performance.
🔗 Explore our industrial strainers

Recursos

• Commercial Filtration Supply – Micron Ratings
• Water Quality Association
• EPA Filtration Guidance