Grease separation in the exhaust air – filter or separator?

Filter or separator? What is the best method for cleaning exhaust air in industry and gastronomy? Wherever grease or oil is used, tiny droplets are released into the air. Whether in the food industry, in mechanical engineering or in large commercial kitchens – these particles must be removed from the exhaust air flow. But what is the best way to do this? By filtering or by separation? We answer this question in this article.

The difference between a filter and a separator

A filter stores grease and oil particles in its medium. This means that the grease collects in the filter over time. A separator, on the other hand, separates the particles directly from the air. The particles are separated, run off and the air remains clean.

Why filters can be problematic

Filters may seem practical at first glance, but they have many disadvantages:

• Fire hazard: Grease and oil deposits in the filter are highly flammable. Many fires in kitchens have been caused by clogged and overheated grease filters.
• Time-consuming cleaning: A filter must be replaced or cleaned regularly. This costs time and money.
• Pressure loss: The more a filter becomes clogged, the more difficult it is for the air to flow through. This reduces the efficiency of the entire ventilation system.

Why separators are the better solution

Separators offer many advantages:

• No storage medium: The grease is not collected, but removed directly from the air.
• Greater safety: cutting off the grease does not create a fire load.
• More effective cleaning: Many modern separators are easy to clean, often even in the dishwasher.
• Constant performance: As no grease is stored, the air flow remains stable and the system works efficiently.

Why not all separators are equally good

Not every separator works the same. Particularly important are

• The right technology: High-quality separators use air acceleration and deflectors to effectively eject grease from the air.
• The right application: The system must be precisely matched to the respective application.
• Regular maintenance: A separator also needs to be cleaned in order to function optimally.

Beware of false promises

Some manufacturers advertise “100% separation”. This is hardly technically possible. Grease particles come in different sizes – from large droplets to the finest mist particles. While large particles can be easily separated, the smallest fat droplets often remain in the air. A good separator achieves degrees of separation of over 99%, but complete removal of all particles is not realistic in practice.

Conclusion: Separators are the better choice

Anyone looking for a safe, efficient and durable solution should opt for separators. They are not only safer, but also easier to clean and reduce costs in the long term. Especially in kitchens, in the food industry and wherever grease is used, modern separators offer the best method of air pollution control.

The video on the topic: Conclusion: Grease separation in exhaust air – filter or separator?

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