In any manufacturing process the end product is the culmination of many steps, each potentially creating difficulties. A properly designed filter system can eliminate many costly problems. The removal of contaminants from a fluid process stream makes that fluid more valuable and increases product yields. A dirty fluid stream in a manufacturing process can decrease productivity and lead to high rejection rates. A filter placed in a strategic location can alleviate such problems and also act as a monitor for the whole process. For example, a filter that plugs prematurely for no apparent reason suggests that there are improper conditions somewhere in the process. Cartridge filters can be used to protect critical orifices located in a manufacturing process (i.e. an extruder) so that the openings do not become clogged and cause downtime. If the fluid in question is recirculating, reclaim value can also be increased by placing a cartridge filter in line. Removing a haze or classifying particles are other reasons for using cartridge filters. Properly dispersing a mixture, such as pigment / resin mixture, is an example of this. Finally, since gases are fluids, the removal of aerosols or mists can be achieved with cartridge filters known as coalescers. Vapors can be removed with activated carbon cartridge.