Smith’s metal filters help protect equipment and processes in commercial and industrial filtration applications involving high temperatures and harsh environments.
“I am pleased that Sharilyn, Jim and Matt Solis and the Smith Filter team decided to partner with Rensa to support the next phase of growth for their company,” said Brandon Ost, CEO and founder of Rensa Filtration. “Smith Filter is an iconic brand known for high quality metal air filters. I want to thank Sharilyn and Jim for their leadership and commitment to the air filter industry and wish them well in their retirement.”
Matt Solis and his management team will continue to lead the Smith Filter business and manufacturing operations in Moline.
“This is an important milestone in the history of Smith Filter,” said Sharilyn Solis, co-owner of Smith Filter. “My grandfather and great-grandfather started Smith Filter 84 years ago here in Moline. We are pleased that we can continue to build on our family’s legacy and partner with Rensa as our customers will gain access to Rensa’s broad range of innovative air filters.”
Smith’s metal air filters are now part of Rensa’s growing offering of specialty air filters. Rensa says that in addition to pleated filters, bag filters, high capacity filters and high efficiency filters used across many applications, Smith metal filters will complement its Permatron brand of low-pressure drop intake filter screens and D-Mark brand of activated carbon filters used in odor and pollution control applications.
Smith Filter is Rensa’s tenth acquisition, and the fifth acquisition under Audax Private Equity since the firm’s investment in 2022.