Mesh vs. Micron Filtration
When choosing a filter for your irrigation system, you’ll often see two sizing terms: mesh and micron. Both describe how fine the filtration is, but in different ways.
What Is Mesh?
Mesh refers to the number of openings in one linear inch of screen material.
- An 80-mesh screen has 80 openings per linear inch.
- A higher mesh number means:
- More openings per inch.
- Smaller openings.
- Finer filtration.
What Is a Micron?
A micron (µm) measures the size of the openings in the filter.
- 1 micron = one-thousandth of a millimeter (0.001 mm).
- A larger micron number means:
- Larger openings.
- Coarser filtration.
- A smaller micron number means finer filtration.
Because mesh counts openings per inch and micron measures the size of each opening, they are inversely related:
- Higher mesh → smaller micron → finer filtration.
- Lower mesh → larger micron → coarser filtration.
Standard Filter Options at IrrigationKing
Most IrrigationKing filters are supplied with a 120-mesh cartridge, which is typically fine enough for most drip irrigation systems. For certain filter models, we also offer alternative mesh sizes to match different applications.
Mesh to Micron Conversion & Typical Applications
| Mesh | Approx. Micron | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| 80 | ≈ 177 µm | Micro sprinklers |
| 120 | ≈ 130 µm | Medium to high flow drip irrigation |
| 150 | ≈ 100 µm | Low flow drip irrigation |
How to Choose the Right Filtration Level
- Micro sprinklers: Often work well with 80-mesh filtration.
- Standard drip irrigation: Typically uses 120-mesh for reliable emitter protection.
- Fine, low-flow drip systems: May benefit from 150-mesh filtration, especially with dirty water sources.
Always follow the manufacturer’s filtration recommendations for your drip tape, emitters, or sprinklers to prevent clogging and extend system life.
Shop Filters at IrrigationKing
To find filters with the mesh size that best fits your system, browse our full selection here: