Filtering liquids or air in hostile environmentssuch as those subject to temperature extremes, high orders of shock/vibration, and caustic fuels or fumeshas posed problems for paper filter elements. These types of elements simply will not withstand these types of operating conditions.
Since paper filters are typically composed of organic materials, they are also subject to attack by the caustic byproducts of many industrial processes such as those involving combustion. For example, corrosion often takes place when high-temperature lubricating oils are loaded with such acids. After extended use, the surface area of the paper filter becomes heavily loaded, resulting in filter weak spots. (If the pressure relief valve is not set low enough, and the pressure is allowed to remain at normal operating pressure [500 to 700 kPa], paper filter elements may tear, fracture, or even burst.)