Following the introduction of UFI Filters’ ARGENTIUM concept to the aftermarket, the company’s Sales Director UK & Ireland – Aftermarket, Karl Ridings, discusses how it is helping the company reach the next level of cabin air filtration.
After the autumn and winter have left their mark on a vehicle’s cabin air filter, it is recommended to have it replaced in time for spring. Although the standard rule of thumb for a replacement to be carried out is once a year, it should be done at even shorter intervals in areas that are particularly dusty, since the rate of wear is accelerated in such places.
The need for cabin air filtration
A properly functioning cabin air filter is extremely important. Although the concentration of dust in the atmosphere and the presence of various harmful particles such as PM10 and PM2.5 varies with weather conditions and geographic location, levels inside the vehicle can be as high as six times the outdoor level. The direct effects of poor air quality on both drivers and passengers can include allergies, sore throats, sneezing, reduced alertness and poor visibility due to condensation on the windscreen and windows.
A revolution in filtration
Manufacturers of cabin air filters have recently extended their product groups with new solutions that are designed to block and destroy bacteria even more efficiently. Internal tests have shown that these solutions, however, tend to deteriorate within only a few working cycles after installation. With a renowned commitment to innovation, UFI Filters has developed a different concept called ARGENTIUM, which is able to maintain its full filtering properties throughout the filter’s entire lifetime.
The new filter will soon be introduced to complement the company’s pollen and active carbon cabin air filter ranges in the aftermarket. ARGENTIUM features fibres that are distinct by their blue colour and a special fabric structure that incorporates silver particles that deliver powerful antimicrobial characteristics. Tests carried out at our innovation centre, moreover, have shown that this innovative product maintains its ability to neutralise bacteria, fungi and mould, reducing the bacterial load by over 99%.
Our ARGENTIUM filtering media is composed of three layers: antimicrobial, adsorbent and structural. Combined, these layers stop pollen, dirt, tyre-wear dust, fungi, and bacteria, all whilst absorbing SO₂ and NOx. Thanks to the presence of active carbon, the medium material guarantees a filtration efficiency that exceeds 98.5% for particles with a diameter of 2.5 microns, as well as eliminating harmful gases and unpleasant odours.
Coming your way soon…
The UFI ARGENTIUM cabin air filter range will be launched in the second quarter of this year. Initially, motor factors will benefit from the availability of 47 references, with further references to follow. UFI will start with the introduction of fast-moving references with a high car parc coverage.
UFI recommends ensuring that the selected cabin filter corresponds to the application suggested in the catalogue, because the use of incorrect part numbers is a frequent cause of malfunction and even collapse of the filter. Indications that a replacement is due may include a significant deterioration in the air quality, unpleasant odours or pollen particulates in the cabin, and poor visibility due to condensation that builds up on the windscreen and side windows. Factors should encourage their garage customers to follow service procedures as suggested by both the car and filter manufacturers in order to achieve convenient service operations and prevent functionality issues.
