Traditional filter elements have the same filter media throughout the element structure. The VDM filter from Filtertechnik can be tailored to suit a given application by adjusting the media layers to suit the particulate clean up job required. Water removal can also be built into the element by utilising a water removal tier within the element, which has excellent water retention properties. Cleanliness levels of ISO 12/10/8, Nas 2, are easily achievable from this element as well as removing both free water and dissolved water down to 50 ppm. In-house and field tests have typically shown water counts being reduced from 1,000 ppm to 50 ppm. The layered design of the VDM means that other materials can be introduced to the element to perform different functions, as required, such as Free Fatty Acid or TAN reduction. Applications for the VDM filter include mineral oils, fuels, vegetable oil based applications such as used cooking oil and biodiesel. Two patents are utilised within the VDM design. One is the variable depth concept and the other is the use of diffusers within the element that improve particulate capture due to a non-Newtonian interrupted flow principle. VDM filters are currently being manufactured in three sizes but they can be built to suit applications and flow requirements.