fan filters

[rodrigu3]

I'm currently gathering pieces for a new rig. One thing I've always had trouble with in the past is dust. The case I'm using is an Apevia X-Superalien. As you can see it has 2 rear exhaust, 2 front intake one side panel intake, and a top exhaust.

The problem is that now it won't just be dust trying to get in. Got a new pet and now I fear pet hair getting in, so I'm considering getting these fan filters. I will be removing those fan grills as well.

The question is how much these filters will reduce airflow through the case and if I even need filters on my exhaust fans. My guess is no. I am thinking that since exhaust CFM will be greater than intake CFM, that it will be a negative pressure system and that the loss in CFM through the filters will be accounted for by an increased pressure gradient. Hopefully someone who knows more than me about these things can help me out. Thanks.

 

[Zepper]

I'm thinking they will be pretty restrictive as it's pretty much a two-dimensional filter. Once the surface gets covered, that's it... But they do look best. The square filter that j-t offers is a little more 3-D, but I use the plastic, three-piece units like this: <a target=_blank class=ftalternatingbarlinklarge href="https://www.jab-tech.com/80mm-Plastic-fan-filter-pr-1512.html">https://www.jab-tech.com/80......ilter-pr-1512.html</a> . The foam filter material is very 3-D and flows pretty well even when it looks plugged up - easily washed and cheaply replaced.

I'd get one of each to see how they work there - they aren't very expensive. You can watch the rpms of the fan to see how quickly each type bogs the fan down.

.bh.

 

[rodrigu3]

what I liked about the ones I mentioned as that you can unscrew the filter without having to remove the whole fan - very convenient

 

[Zepper]

Well the front part of the plastic ones pop right off to get at the foam element.

.bh.

 

[rodrigu3]

cool couldn't tell from the picture, one question though - wouldn't the 3d foam be more restrictive than the 2d mesh since the air has to travel through more material?

 

[tylerdustin2008]

The ones you linked still let in dust. I've got 4 of them, they let in fine particles of dust. Makes a big mess.

 

[rodrigu3]

bleh - so much for that, I guess I'm going with the foam

 

[Bluefront]

How you deal with dust and fan filters, depends on the severity of your dust problem. Those flat foam filters commonly found, will clog very quickly in dusty conditions. The CFM from the fans will drop, and things will heat up.....or the fans will speed up and the computer will get more noisy.

I've got a dust problem from pets, and have learned to deal with it. Here are some of my solutions. Most of these setups involve case mods, and DIY filtering methods. Remember one thing......the more surface area of the filter, the less restriction, longer life, and less maintenance. Pleated paper air filters usually work the best.