An Overview of Hydraulic Filters and Their Types

Blog | March 28th, 2022

Even with few components, hydraulic systems can already provide the needed energy for machines and devices to operate. Hence, more and more of these things today are being equipped with hydraulic systems, especially those that require a high power density.

The energy provided by hydraulic systems comes from the pressurised fluid. As hydraulic system components put some pressure on the hydraulic fluid, they would produce a large amount of power that is then transferred to machines and devices. The path of the fluid can be flexible, ensuring that it can energise parts that need energy.

Hydraulic fluids play a primary role in powering up hydraulic machines and devices. If they are not handled properly, it would be difficult for the systems to attain the required energy.

Causes of Hydraulic Fluid Contamination

One of the primary causes of hydraulic system failures is hydraulic fluid contamination. 

Hydraulic fluids can be contaminated in many ways. For one, they can be contaminated due to leftover debris from the manufacturing processes of hydraulic system components. Hydraulic fluids can also be contaminated if a new type of fluid is added to the system. Hydraulic fluid contamination likewise happens due to component wear and entry of contaminants.

Given the importance of hydraulic fluids, users should ensure that their hydraulic systems will be cleaned regularly. Another way to ensure the proper operation of hydraulic fluids is by using hydraulic filters.

The Importance of Using Hydraulic Filters

Hydraulic filters are essential today as they can keep up with the increasingly high pressures and faster cycle times of hydraulic systems. Without using hydraulic filters, systems may develop fluid breakdown, acid corrosion, poor system efficiency and accuracy, sludge development, and component seizure. 

Most hydraulic filters nowadays have openings for the input and output of hydraulic fluids. As they enter the filters, they are normally passed through the filter media so that any contaminants will be collected. The filtered fluids are subsequently passed through a central channel between the filter media before getting transported to various hydraulic system components.

Choosing the Best Hydraulic Filter Type

Many types of hydraulic filters can be picked by users today. Some of them are as follows:

• Suction – Suction filters may be either on the suction port of the pump or in the reservoir. They are then installed on the suction line that leads to the pump. They are often utilised since other types of filters will only fail when attached to the suction line.
• Pressure – Pressure filters, alternatively, are located between the pump outlet and the rest of the hydraulic system components. They can effectively protect all parts of a hydraulic system.
• Return – Return filters may be situated in-line or inside the reservoir. They are often installed on systems that require protection to the pumps. 

When selecting the best type of hydraulic filter, users must consider the hydraulic fluid type, operating pressure, fluid flow per cycle, optimal resistance of the filter, the expected amount of contaminant, and the required cleanliness of the hydraulic fluid.

Mobile Hydraulic Specialties Pty Ltd

Factory 89, 38-40 Popes Road
Keysborough, Victoria, 3173

Phone: (03) 9798-6511

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