(grĭb′əl fɪltə)
See
Gribble flangen.
A particulate filter is a device composed of fibrous materials which removes solid particulates such as dust, pollen, mould, and bacteria from the air. This type of filter is used in applications where air quality is important, notably in building ventilation systems and in engines.
A Gribble filter is such a device, but designed or positioned specifically by the manufacturer in a location that causes the maximum amount of dirt to accumulate in the filter, causing the
Gribble flange effect to kick in: A correctly located filter may require renewal every 24 to 36 months. A Gribble Filter gets dirty in weeks, and is usually so well hidden or difficult to replace that the user continues to breathe in filthy unfiltered air so that they don't have to pay a technician to find and replace the costly Gribble element.
Formerly seen as a money grabbing device to benefit the manufacturer, now seen by Gen Y as no more than a
friendly reminder that whatever the device is filtering, it's about time we had a new one. With a snazzy corporate logo on it. In a different colour.
Ted: 'What's that filthy thing in your hand ?'
Bill: 'The
Gribble filter from my car. It failed early as anticipated, and the car is now
in the shop for repairs. Hope they forget to reset the
Gribble Flange timer chip.'
