Standard disposable or cleanable filtration cartridges are available in a variety of materials and lengths. Nominal cartridge lengths of 10 inches to 40 inches are readily obtainable from a wide range of commercial sources, along with vessels able to accommodate from one to six elements. Filter materials range from spiral wound cotton to various synthetics such as polypropylene and polyester. Filtration ratings down to .2 micron absolute with 99.9 % efficiency are available.

Cartridge filters operate in a dead end flow mode and have a fixed dirt handling capacity. Once exceeded, flow will cease until the element is either replaced or cleaned, if possible.