Fiberglass: The Most Fragile Material Processed by SPM
Fiberglass for HEPA filters is the most fragile material routinely processed by SPM. This changes the priorities of the production line.
Before speed, pleat pitch accuracy is the key factor. The range is between 1.5 and 4 mm, with guaranteed repeatability of ±0.1 mm. Without constant tension control during feeding, such thin media can tear or produce irregular pleats.
The 91XPL/91XSPL pleating machines and the dedicated 91XPM integrate a tension control system for this reason. Production speed ranges from 15 to 20 meters per minute, depending on the selected pleat pitch.
Hot-Melt Application: Up to 48 Nozzles per Side
For separators between the pleats, SPM uses hot-melt application. The lines can be equipped with up to 48 heated nozzles per side. Each nozzle has a dedicated sensor with temperature control within ±1 °C.
The adhesive can be applied in four modes: continuous bead, intermittent bead, dots, or Foam technology (foamed adhesive). The choice depends on the weight of the filter pack and the rigidity required for the finished filter.
ISO 7 Environments and H13/H14 Classes: What SPM Guarantees
SPM has already validated production lines for filters compliant with EN 1822, H13 and H14 classes, in ISO 7 environments. This provides a solid starting point for manufacturers that need to qualify their production process for pharmaceutical or cleanroom customers.
Certification of the finished filter remains the responsibility of the manufacturer, not the machine. However, having an already validated production line significantly reduces the initial qualification work.
