Air Filter Medium With Low Friction Support Resists Pleating Damage

A cushioning layer is positioned between the pleating machine and the porous PTFE membrane during the pleating process. This cushioning layer absorbs and distributes the compressive and shear forces applied during pleating, preventing direct contact between the pleating machine and the membrane that would cause pinhole formation. The cushioning layer thus protects the membrane integrity while allowing the pleating process to proceed for increasing filtration area.

A cushioning layer is introduced as an intermediary element between the pleating machine and the porous PTFE membrane. This cushioning layer serves as a mediator that transmits the necessary compressive force for pleating while protecting the membrane from direct mechanical damage. The cushioning layer absorbs excess compression forces and distributes them evenly, preventing pinhole formation while still enabling the pleating process to create the required W-shaped folds.

The cushioning layer is positioned in advance between the pleating machine and the membrane to prevent pinhole formation during the pleating process. By providing this protective cushioning beforehand, the membrane is protected from mechanical damage that would create pinholes, ensuring that collection efficiency is maintained even after the pleating process completes.

The cushioning layer acts as a protective intermediary that shields the thin porous PTFE membrane from mechanical damage during pleating. Since thinner membranes are more vulnerable to pinhole formation, the cushioning layer provides the necessary mechanical protection, allowing the membrane to remain thin for low self-dusting properties while preventing the formation of pinholes that would compromise its strength and filtration performance.