Pleated filter media are made from a wide variety of materials, such as for instance paper or different nonwoven fabrics.
Our portfoglio covers thermoplastic adhesives for pleating and frame bonding are characterised by a broad spectrum of adhesion. In addition, they also function as a sealant giving the filters stability and facilitate highly reliable processes.
Due to the special characteristics of these adhesives, the finished filters keep their form throughout their life cycle even while the compound is exposed to high mechanical stress during installation or to high temperatures of over 180 °C.
Special polyolefin hot melts can be used for pleating as well as for filter frame bonding and meet all necessary requirements.
Pleating
Engine intake air filters are good examples to explain the importance of these pleated filters. They need to guarantee that the high-performance components are protected against potential damages from rust, pollen, dust, tire abrasion, sand and other dirt while allowing the engine to operate with efficient combustion without damage.
Filter papers soaked with phenolic resin undergo thermal processes after pleating which may expose them to temperatures up to 180 °C, and of course, the adhesives must withstand this stress.
Frame bonding
The engine compartments of today’s cars are becoming more and more compact and consequently allowing only very limited space for the air filters.
The adhesive, specifically the adhesive joint, may not fail and the filter pockets must remain sealed. Additionally, the performance of the filter element may not be diminished in any way by the adhesive.