The one Supertech 3614 I’ve cut open had a plastic core, but I believe all the other filters I’ve used over the years had metal center tubes. Is there any reason to mistrust a filter with a plastic core, or to prefer them?
What’s the consensus on filters with a plastic core?
- Thread starter Elkins45
- Start date
Most all cartridge filters have plastic cores or cages. I’ve never seen a problem with one. I actually prefer them, since it’s obvious they will flow well (I’m looking at you, louvers).
The melting temperature of plastic varies significantly depending on its type. Here are some examples:
- ABS: Melts at around 200°C (392°F).
1 - PVC: Begins to melt between 160 to 210°C (320 to 410°F).
1 - Polyethylene: Typically melts around 115 to 135°C.
1 - Polycarbonate: Has a melting point near 155°C.
1 - Polystyrene: Melts around 240°F (115°C).
1 - Polypropylene: Melts near 320°F (160°C).
1
These temperatures can vary based on specific formulations and conditions.
I am guessing you have an Engine that has an Aluminum Block and Aluminum Cylinder heads, that Metal sheds off heat nicely. I have done the Infrared Gun thing at the Oil Filter and the highest temp I have gotten was below 200F or so.
When they first came out there were some posts on here that the ecore style "windows" were too big & wouldn't support the media properly causing media to tear. They've come a long way since & so has the media technology. No real known issues outside of the early days. I like them personally & a cost effective way to deal with media support.
Consensus and oil filters around here? Is this the new Humor section?
I do like the e-core - no worries about them at all. But I think its only a Champion Labs thing correct? Which means I don't get to use them anymore.
I do like the e-core - no worries about them at all. But I think its only a Champion Labs thing correct? Which means I don't get to use them anymore.
No. Not all “plastic” is created the same. The fuselage center barrel of the F/A-18 is “plastic” and it is tougher than most airplanes.
I’ve cut apart 10,000 mile plastic core filters that are far better made (more pleats, stronger end caps) than filters with a “metal core”.
There is no quality advantage to having a metal core, there are much more important criteria.
From the end of life aspect, a metal core might make the filter more recyclable?
How are oil filters recycled?
My county collects them. I always assumed they were incinerated, and whatever metal is left recycled, so I suppose that would be true albeit a tiny amount.
The Ecore center tube was a Champion Labs invention I believe.
https://www.champlabs.com/company/about-champion-laboratories/
https://www.champlabs.com/company/about-champion-laboratories/
I recall the use of “plastic” (nylon) bushings and thrust washers in automatic transmissions back in the late 70s early eighties. They didn’t cause issues. Yes, they could distort however that was the result of a catastrophic failure caused elsewhere in the trans. Oil filters are fine.
There certainly were reports of media "blow-outs" in this forum in the early days from too wide of windows in the center tube, but that hasn't been seen for years. "Lessons learned" by the filter designers from field usage. I'd have no problem using current filters with an Ecore center tube.
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Yep, end tanks on radiators goes back decades too …
BMW has been using filters with a plastic interior cage for decades.
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doesn't bother me either way, e-core or steel tube. i just wonder if the flow rate is higher than the media's efficiency.
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Dont cartridge filters slide into a similar nylon material and are a permanent part of the vehicle? Imo, no issues with these supertech filters. I plan on using them.
