McLane Research Laboratories, Inc. - Flow Rates and Filter Types

Matching Flow Rate to Filter Type

Sample integrity and pumping accuracy depend on properly matching flow rate to filter type. Based on the laboratory and field experience gained during our WTS-LV research and development effort, McLane recommends the pairings shown in the tables below.

If your research requires the use of a particular filter type, the information in the tables will act as a preliminary guide in selecting an appropriately sized LV pump. Our engineers are available to assist you with additional questions.

This compatibility table is also available as a PDF.

**Matching Flow Rate to Filter Type - MRL Recommended Pairings**
Pump Designation	Flow Rate Range [L/min]	Filter Type
LV04	1 - 4	membrane filters, Nucleopore
LV08	5 - 10	glass fiber filters, GFF, QMA
LV20	10 - 20	mesh filters, Nytex
LV30	15 - 30	mesh filters, Nytex
LV50	25 - 50	mesh filters, Nytex

**Filter Characteristics and Flow Rate Limits**
Filter Type	Pore Size [microns]	Maximum Flow Rate [ml/min]
Polycarbonate and polyester	0.2	3,000
membrane filters	0.4	5,000
e.g., Nucleopore	0.8	8,000
	1.0	10,000
Glass fiber filters	0.8	8,000
e.g., GF/F, QMA	1.7	10,000
	5.0	20,000
Mesh filters, e.g., Nytex	60.0	50,000

Note: These recommendations and limits are for filter diameter of 142 mm, the standard size for WTS-LV pumps. Larger pore sizes than those shown will permit higher pumping rates.