Donaldson, a leading, worldwide manufacturer of filtration systems and parts, marks the 10th anniversary of the commercialisation of PowerCore® filtration technology and the sale of its 10 millionth filter. PowerCore’s media technology revolutionised air filtration for the heavy-duty off-road equipment markets, and today continues to deliver to first-fit and aftermarket users worldwide. “Our customers’ need for greater filtration performance in a smaller package drove the demand for Donaldson’s new air filtration technology a decade ago,” said Andrew Dahlgren, General Manager of the Engine Air Business Unit at Donaldson. “As years passed, we continued to improve the technology, culminating in the release of PowerCore G2. Today, we celebrate the advancements PowerCore has made in air filtration. This anniversary also coincides with the sale of more than ten million PowerCore filters worldwide.”
Introduced as an alternative to conventional, larger-sized filters, PowerCore’s straight-through airflow design and high-density filtration system reduces system restriction, extends filter life and reduces overall maintenance costs. The compact, metal-free, cartridge-style design traps contaminants inside its structure for cleaner and easier servicing.
“Larger, conventional filters have a hollow center to allow air to exit to the engine and need more clearance under the hood for proper air flow,” continued Dahlgren. “PowerCore’s compact design – 40 to 50% smaller than competitive brands – helps our customers deal with the need to package more and more equipment in the engine compartment. Additionally, PowerCore’s distinctive appearance, variety of shapes and different mounting options differentiate it from conventional filters. OEMs can now choose from an array of configurations to meet their design specifications.”
Complementary to this innovative air filtration solution is the incorporation of Ultra-Web® nanofibre filter media. Manufactured using a proprietary electrospinning process, Ultra-Web causes submicron contaminants such as dust and soot to load on the surface rather than disperse throughout the depth of the filter media where pores can quickly clog. Extensive lab testing has shown that Ultra-Web enhances the efficiency of high-quality filter media to nearly 100 percent, while extending filter service intervals.
Not resting on its technology laurels, Donaldson improved the design further with the introduction of PowerCore’s second generation – PowerCore G2 – in 2008. PowerCore G2 offers the same straight-through airflow and high-density filtration system advantages as “the original” – with a footprint that’s 30% smaller than the original PowerCore design.”
“PowerCore G2 took it to the next level,” concluded Dahlgren. “Today, Donaldson delivers the biggest air filtration performance using the smallest footprint. Our second generation solution offers a host of performance advantages to our customers, including smaller size, lower pressure drop and longer filter life. But we’re not finished yet. As under-hood space and performance requirements continue to change, we are committed to designing and manufacturing innovative air filtration technologies that will support our customers’ applications.”