Carotek Filtration Strainers Selection Guide 06042020

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Filtration and Strainers Selection Guide

How to Size and Select Filtration & Strainers


Correctly sizing and selecting industrial, commercial or municipal filtration and strainers can
reduce process downtime and maintenance time while improving product quality. The Carotek
Filtration & Strainers Selection Guide explains filtration selection and sizing. When you need
more help with your final selection, please contact us.

Types of Filtration Equipment, Filters and Strainers


Filtration Systems using filters and strainers share a similar function. They separate solids from
fluids to remove unwanted contaminants and to protect processing equipment downstream.
The primary difference between filters and strainers is the size of particulates they are designed
to remove. Filters often remove particulates measured in microns, while strainers remove
larger particles that would be visible with the naked eye.
In order to understand how to size and select industrial, commercial or municipal filters and
strainers, a general knowledge of the types of filtration on the market can be useful.
Types of Filtration
Filtration is often divided into surface filtration and depth filtration. Surface filters are generally
used for higher concentrations of particles, while depth filters are used for lower
concentrations. Surface filters are generally better suited for applications that require
backwashing.

• Bag filtration systems consist of a filter housing and filter bags made of felt or fabric
mesh, which are either sewed or welded. A bag filtration system is generally inexpensive
and works well in a range of process conditions. Some bag housings are available with
steam jackets.
• Cartridge filtration systems use modular filters in a housing, so this style generally offers
a longer service life.
• Automatic Self-cleaning filters offer tubular backwashing and mechanically cleaned
technology for continuous flow, simplified maintenance and worry-free operation,
saving labor and production down-time.

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Types of Strainers
Strainers are mechanical devices placed in-line with process piping to remove solids from a
flowing liquid. Strainers can be cleaned and reused, and they are available in a variety of styles:

• Basket strainers are a type of strainer used with horizontal piping, featuring a debris
collection chamber and drain connection that must be in the lowest possible position.
Basket strainers can be either simplex strainers, designed with a single in-line strainer
basket, or duplex strainers, designed with two strainer baskets so the flow can be
switched to allow for one basket to be cleaned while not stopping the process flow.
They come in a variety of metallurgies and can be coated.
• Y strainers are a type of strainer used with horizontal or vertical piping. They have a
higher operating pressure range than basket strainers.
• Temporary strainer, which are often cone shaped, are inserted with a flanged pipe
spool. Temporary strainers are generally used for process startup.
• Additional types of strainers include back flushing, automatic self-cleaning, and special
application strainers.

Criteria for Strainer or Filtration Sizing and Selection


Although a filter or a strainer may be more suitable depending on the application, the general
criteria for filtration sizing and selection are generally the same as the criteria for strainer sizing
and selection.

• Pipe size. The strainer or filter should be sized to match the existing pipe. In addition,
pipe configuration (horizontal or vertical piping, or right angle) affects which type of
industrial filtration would be a best fit.
• Flow rate. Maximum flow must be accommodated. Minimum flow is important for
backwashing filters.
• Temperature and pressure range. Filters are always rated for maximum pressure.
Minimum pressure comes into play primarily for automatic, self-cleaning filters.
Generally, a Y strainer rather than basket strainer for high pressure over 6000 psi.
• Particle size and characteristics. Filter mesh is described with a mesh number (number
of openings per inch), mesh size, and strand diameter that affect the size of particles
collected.
• Maintenance. If the line cannot be shut down, a duplex strainer may be needed so the
flow can be switched when a basket becomes full. For some applications, a self-cleaning
filter may be suitable to reduce the need to stop flow or disassemble piping.
• Batch or continuous process. If the process operates for long periods without stopping,
continuous filtration might be needed.

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• Material requirements. Often the filter or strainer material is specified as the same as
the pipeline requirements, to ensure that it can handle the materials as well as ensure
the same coefficient of expansion. If the filtration material is hazardous reactive, it may
require specialized media.
Filtration sizing and selection depends on the properties of the material and the contaminants
(or byproducts) that are being removed, as well as process needs. The ideal filtration solution
also depends on whether automatic cleaning is necessary, and whether the process can be
interrupted to change or clean filters. Knowing how to size and select commercial filters and
strainers is crucial to protect downstream equipment from damage due to contamination.
Carotek is a recognized leading supplier, service center, and maintenance facility for industrial
filtration and strainers. Carotek offers extensive local product inventory, expertise, and support
for a range of commercial filters and strainers. Contact Carotek for expert selection assistance
or browse our selection of filters and strainers to find the right fit for your application.

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