Laboratory gas line filters (used to remove solid particles, moisture, or oil from gases) must meet the following installation requirements to ensure effectiveness:
- Installation position: Install filters downstream of the pressure relief valve and upstream of the instrument—this prevents contaminants from entering the instrument after pressure regulation.
- Flow direction compliance: Follow the "inlet-outlet" marking on the filter body. Reversing the flow will reduce filtration efficiency and may damage the filter element.
- Filter element selection: Use 0.2μm pore size elements for analytical instruments (e.g., GC-MS) to remove tiny particles; use moisture-absorbing elements (e.g., molecular sieve) for gases sensitive to moisture (e.g., hydrogen for fuel cells).
- Regular replacement: Replace filter elements every 3-6 months (or sooner if the pressure drop across the filter exceeds 0.1MPa) to avoid clogging that affects gas flow.