Proper filtration is an essential component of every hydraulic subsystem. The type and sizing of the filter can make the difference between a smooth-running, long-lasting system or a subsystem that’s constantly down for maintenance. This guide will help designers and operators select the right hydraulic filter for their application. It will cover the different types, specs and how to maintain them.
What is a Hydraulic Filter?
An element of a hydraulic system called a hydraulic filter pushes fluid through a porous filter element to filter out potentially harmful particles. These particulates range from dirt to water to reactive chemicals and are on a scale too small to be seen by the human eye. These contaminants can clog flow control and pressure valves, decreasing equipment efficiency and costly downtime.
Hydraulic filter suppliers VA offer various forms based on their location within the hydraulic system. They can include spin-on filters, cartridge filters and kidney loops. These filters function in the reservoir and return lines to keep the hydraulic oil clean for optimum performance. They also help extend hydraulic drain intervals. Cartridge filters are a great option for higher-pressure systems, while spin-on filters work best in low-pressure applications and systems that don’t require high back pressure.
Types of Hydraulic Filters
A few hydraulic filter types are available, depending on the application. Some are in-line filters between the pump and the actuators, while others are low-pressure or return line filters. The chosen filter type depends on the contaminant tolerance level and acceptable drop in system pressure caused by the filter. It is important to consult the component manufacturer’s written fluid cleanliness-level recommendations and ensure the filter matches those requirements. Hydraulic filters are constructed of three parts – the head, which attaches to the machine; the filter element; and the filter bowl, which threads onto the head and contains the filter element. The filter element has a nominal or absolute rating, which determines the size of particles that it can remove from the hydraulic fluid. The higher the nominal rating, the finer the filtration.
How to Select a Hydraulic Filter
Specifying the correct filter for your hydraulic system is crucial to prevent expensive contamination that can shorten the life of critical components. Several factors are to consider, including fluid viscosity and the amount of acceptable pressure drop. Typically, in-line filters are plumbed directly into the hydraulic machine to filter the fluid as it is being used continuously. It helps protect the hydraulic pump and other components from contaminant wear and ensures a high purity level for the entire system. There are a few different in-line filters, including spin-on and cartridge filters. Cartridge filters have a head, a filter element, and a cartridge bowl that threads onto the head and holds the filter element, whereas spin-on filters have a head and a filter element. Cartridge filters are more difficult to change but offer a more durable design and less wasted filter media.
Maintenance of Hydraulic Filters
Hydraulic systems use powerful equipment that can create a great deal of force. That power, however, can lead to damage and wear if contaminants aren’t properly removed. Filtration keeps contaminants out of hydraulic system fluid. It prevents them from clogging and blocking components. It also extends the life of the liquid, which can help reduce operating costs. Generally, a low-pressure spin-on filter is used to protect the system’s components from damage caused by water. These filters will be installed in-line before the fluid reaches pumps and other hydraulic system components.
Other types of filters include high-pressure spin-on and cartridge filters. These are designed to be installed in the line before the servo valves and actuators. They can also be installed in the return line to keep fluid clean as it returns to the reservoir. Reservoir breathers are often used to prevent contamination from entering the hydraulic system from the air or atmosphere. They can be positioned along the reservoir or inside the tank itself.