Quote:
Originally Posted by 911SauCy
A smaller filter, despite my lack of exact knowledge, likely filters less efficiently than a larger capacity one. Increasing internal engine wear faster...again, higher profits for more regular repairs.
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Not being a MechE I'm just using some knowledge I gained through osmosis, but I think you've got the gist of it. I'll take a shot at it...
Filter efficacy is a balance of element surface area, particle size, and flow rate. The greater the surface area of the filter element, the smaller the particle size you can filter out at the same fluid flow rate. Getting more surface area either requires a larger filter body to fit more material or more convolutions in the element, meaning a thinner/stronger element material.
I haven't heard of any staggering breakthroughs in filter element material lately (but then again I'm nobody). Still, it's a fair bet they're letting larger particles through to maintain the same flow rate through the smaller filter. More particles = shortened engine life.
Maybe we need Lubey to chime in.
