Hydraulic Fluid Filters
Most mechanical components operate more efficiently under clean operating conditions. Hydraulic valves, actuators, pumps and other components are no exception. So effective filtration is essential to a hydraulic system.
Significance
Hydraulic systems need clean and uncontaminated fluid to operate properly. Contaminants inadvertently introduced into the hydraulic system or metal debris from normal component wear can damage hydraulic components.
Operation
A filter element traps solid particles while allowing fluid to pass through. Many filters also use a bypass valve that allows fluid to flow through the filter housing without passing through the actual filter element. This allows the system to remain operational for some time, even if the filter is clogged.
Types
Suction filters trap larger debris particles just before the hydraulic fluid reaches a pump inlet. Return filters trap contaminants from the entire system because fluid passes through them just before returning to the reservoir for recirculation. Pressure filters downstream from the system pumps help to eliminate contaminants before the reach sensitive component.
Alternatives
Users can install off-line filters into existing hydraulic systems because they operate independently of the main hydraulic systems. Off-line filters pump fluid from the reservoir, filter it, then return it directly to the reservoir. Duplex filters use two elements so elements can be changed without interrupting fluid flow.
