How Many Types of Hydraulic Filters Are There?

The hydraulic filter is an important part of the hydraulic system, but what is a hydraulic filter? There are many types of filters to choose from and it can be hard to know which one to use.

In this article we will discuss some different types of filters so you can make an educated decision about which one is right for your situation.

What Is a Hydraulic Filter? And Why Do We Need It?

Equalization, hydration, and filtering are key to your hydraulic system. Starting with the filter, the smallest filter ports in the valve create a significant restriction of flow if they’re not cleaned properly for long periods of time.

This can lead to stuck pills which block full closing and opening action on your valves for proper movement signals from one end of the machine to another.

Hydraulic filters help prevent catch-point damage and increased wear by removing particles before they reach the pumps and motors.

However, matching filters is an important factor too! Always check their rated working pressures as well so you don’t cause decreased or excessive clearances (head pressure) that causes loosened bolts or improper seal currents over time from poor performance in equalizing or hydration.

Types of Hydraulic Filters:

• Pressure Gauge Filter: Filters out dirt, particles, and other debris that causes wear over time in your hydraulic system by using the pressure gauge to help monitor performance.
• Automatic Changeover Filters (aka Hydrate or hydration by switching): switches automatically based on the pressure to ensure proper flow for matched working pressures with a filter regulator if necessary so you can work without interruption in any conditions.
• Electronic Filters: filters out oil, water, and other contaminants that can cause problems in your hydraulic system over time with a pressure gauge to help monitor performance.
• Air Filter: catches any dirt or dust particles before they reach the pump for maximum efficiency when working on dry land as well as wet underwater conditions (think of the filter on a vacuum).
• Suction filters: are located within the hydraulic reservoir and offer last chance protection for the hydraulic pump. suction filters are often referred to as safety filters. Suction filters are designed to filter the oil prior to the pump.
• Magnetic Filters: catches ferrous material such as iron or steel that can cause damage to your hydraulic system over time with a pressure gauge to help monitor performance.
• Regulated Pressure Changeover Filters: filters out dirt, particles and other debris, automatically switches to the appropriate filter based on operating pressure range with a filter regulator for matching working pressures.
• Magnetic Bypass Filter: protects your hydraulic system against ferrous material like iron or steel that causes damage over time when used in conjunction with a pressure gauge to help monitor performance.

Maintenance Tips for Hydraulic Filters

• Clean the filter element with a rag and hydraulic fluid.
• Inspect the filter for leaks.
• In a pinch, you can use an old sock to clean your filters and inspect them too.
• Inspect the inlet of the filter (where it attaches to the hydraulic system) for any blockages or damage.
• Clean the filter element with a rag and hydraulic fluid.
• Inspect the filter for leaks.
• In a pinch, you can use an old sock to clean your filters and inspect them too.
• Inspect the inlet of the filter (where it attaches to the hydraulic system) for any blockages or damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should You Replace Your Filter?

If you’re in an area with heavy particle counts and debris, it’s a good idea to change your hydraulic filter regularly.

In general, every six months is the average time for most filters. Maintenance tips for hydraulic filters are: cleaning the filter element with a rag and hydraulic fluid (or water), inspecting the filter for leaks, inspecting the inlet of the filter (where it attaches to the hydraulic system) for any blockages or damage.

If you’re noticing some symptoms that could be associated with a faulty hydraulic filter, such as decreased output speed and pressure, or an increase in noise levels, your best bet is replacing it immediately.

Why Are There So Many Different Types of Filters to Choose From?

There are so many types of filters to choose from because filters can trap a variety of particles depending on the specific filter, and all hydraulic systems do not work in the same conditions. You should also consider the size according to your tool. What size hydraulic pump for log splitter is one of the most asked queries.

Why Would I Want to Change My Current Type of Filter If It’s Working Well Enough Already?

There is a difference between filters having the ability to filter out specific particles and expecting them to perform the same under different conditions. If you don’t want to change your current type of filter, be sure you are comparing apples to apples.

How Much Will It Cost?

The cost of a filter will vary depending on the type of filter and where you purchase it. The best way to find out what the price of a particular type of filter is where you live is to shop around. You could also try installing it yourself, but that may void the warranty if it doesn’t work.

Conclusion

Hydraulic filters are inexpensive and will keep your machine running smoothly. It may seem like a lot of work for something so little but it’s an investment in the longevity of your hydraulic system.

We hope this article has provided you with many answers to what type of filter is best for you! Check back soon for more on hydraulic filters.