Correct sizing and selection of filtration and strainers in industrial, commercial, or municipal environments can significantly reduce downtime and maintenance time, as well as enhance product quality.

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For detailed information on selecting and sizing filters and strainers, refer to the Carotek Guide. If you need further assistance in your selection process, don't hesitate to contact us.

Types of Filtration Equipment, Filters, and Strainers

Filtration systems, which utilize filters and strainers, share the common purpose of separating solids from fluids to remove contaminants and protect downstream equipment. The main difference lies in the size of the particles they target.

Filters typically remove small particulates measured in microns, whereas strainers are designed to capture larger, visible particles.

Understanding the variety of filtration options available can aid in selecting and sizing the right industrial, commercial, or municipal filters and strainers. It's essential to consider filters and strainers separately.

Specification Requirements for Filtration

Filtration mainly targets particles invisible to the naked eye, which is where filters excel as opposed to strainers.

Common Types of Filtration

Industrial filtration systems are generally categorized into surface filtration and depth filtration. Surface filters are suitable for higher concentrations of particles, while depth filters handle lower concentrations and are better for backwashing.

Filtration Comparison Guide

Different filters offer distinct advantages:

Bag filtration systems feature a filter housing and bags made from felt or fabric mesh, often sewn or welded. These systems are cost-effective and versatile for various process conditions. Some are available with steam jackets.

Cartridge filtration systems utilize modular filters within a housing, offering a longer service life.

Automatic self-cleaning filters provide tubular backwashing and mechanical cleaning technology for continuous flow, easy maintenance, and worry-free operation, reducing labor and downtime.

Filtration Size

When selecting the appropriate filtration size, consider the smallest particle that needs to be removed. Filter pore size is measured in microns—a 10-micron filter removes particles as small as 10 microns. Choosing a pore size close to the particle size ensures reduced maintenance and improved efficiency.

Specification Requirements for Strainers

Strainers are used to remove particles visible to the naked eye from a fluid stream.

Common Types of Strainers

Strainers, positioned inline with process piping, mechanically remove solids from liquids. They can be cleaned and reused. Industrial strainers come in various styles like basket strainers, Y strainers, and temporary strainers. Other options include back flushing, automatic self-cleaning, and special application strainers.

Strainers Comparison Guide

The ideal strainer type depends on filtration needs and piping direction:

Basket strainers work with horizontal piping, collecting debris in a chamber with a drain connection at the lowest point. Basket strainers come in simplex (single basket) and duplex (two baskets) configurations.

Simplex strainers contain a single inline strainer basket.

Duplex strainers have two strainer baskets, allowing one to be cleaned without halting process flow. These come in various metallurgies and coatings.

Y strainers are versatile, suitable for horizontal or vertical piping, and can handle higher operating pressure than basket strainers.

Temporary strainers (often cone-shaped) are inserted with a flanged pipe spool and generally used during process startup.

Other strainers include back flushing and automatic self-cleaning options to minimize manual maintenance and special application strainers like magnetic strainers for fine ferrous particles.

Strainers Size

Choosing the correct mesh size is critical for efficient strainer operation. Large meshes fail to remove some particulates, while small meshes may clog easily. The higher the mesh number, the finer the mesh and the smaller the particles it can capture.

Factors for Sizing and Selecting a Filter or Strainer

While filters and strainers may differ in application, their sizing and selection criteria are usually similar:

Pipe size. Match the filter or strainer size with the existing pipe configuration (horizontal, vertical, or right-angled).

Flow rate. Ensure the maximum flow is accommodated. Minimum flow is essential for backwashing filters.

Temperature and pressure range. Filters have maximum pressure ratings, with minimum pressure more relevant for self-cleaning filters. Y strainers are preferred for high pressures.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Thread Y Type Strainer. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

Particle size and characteristics. Filter mesh is described by mesh number, mesh size, and strand diameter which determine particle capture.

Maintenance. If continuous operation is required, a duplex strainer allows flow switching during basket cleaning. For some, self-cleaning filters reduce the need to halt processes.

Batch or continuous process. Continuous processes may need uninterrupted filtration.

Material requirements. Filter or strainer material should match pipeline materials to handle the same conditions and ensure compatibility. Specialized media may be required for hazardous materials.

Filtration sizing and selection depend on material properties and contaminants, as well as process needs. The right solution hinges on whether automatic cleaning is needed and if the process can be interrupted for cleaning or changing filters.

Carotek is a leading supplier, service center, and maintenance facility for industrial, commercial, and municipal filtration and strainers. Carotek offers extensive inventory, expertise, and support for a wide range of filters and strainers. We are an authorized distributor for Eaton Filtration.

Contact Carotek for expert selection assistance or browse our filters and strainers to find the right fit for your application.

Download our PDF Guide to Selecting Strainer and Filtration Systems

Filtration & Strainer FAQs

How to select pipe filters and strainers in piping systems?

When selecting pipe filters and strainers, consider the pipeline characteristics, process, and materials. Strainers are usually for large visible particles, filters for smaller micron-sized particles.

How to select a basket strainer?

Consider the filter housing, inlet and outlet placement, connection type, sealing material, flow rate, temperature, pressure range, particle size, process type, and material requirements. Simplex or duplex configurations may be chosen based on maintenance needs.

• Flow rate
• Temperature and pressure range (Basket strainers are suitable for lower pressures under certain levels.)
• Particle size and characteristics
• Batch or continuous process
• Material requirements

What is a strainer in piping?

A strainer in piping systems removes small solid particles from liquids, protecting downstream equipment.