Flow Strainer Selections

A flow strainer is an essential component in any type of piping system. Strainers are designed to remove any types of particles or debris from a flow of liquid. Generally, these pieces are removed in the interest of protecting other equipment and kinds of machinery that are located in later portions of the flow path. Some of the particles that are swept into the flow stream of the liquid passing through the pipe system may have the potential to harm or destroy components of the machinery. In these cases, a flow strainer could be necessary for both continuing operations and maintaining overall equipment. It is much more cost efficient to spend a small amount of money on a flow strainer installment than it is to replace multiple pieces of equipment because a strainer was not in place to protect them from harm.

Filters, which also work to clean liquids in a piping system by removing various debris that has been picked up by the flow stream, tend to cause a significant drop in pressure as liquids move through them and experiencing debris removal. A flow strainer does not offer that same amount of resistance, which means the same sort of drop in pressure does not occur. While a flow strainer could be considered as a type of filter, the overall purpose for which the strainer is being installed needs to be considered before a choice is made regarding the most appropriate fixture for the job.

The pressure of a flow rate needs to be measured before the type of flow strainer for installation is selected. A basket strainer is usually necessary in cases where the flow rate exceeds 150 GPM. Another option for a flow strainer that could be installed is a Y-Strainer, but some businesses prefer the basket strainer simply because it does not provide as much resistance, and therefore the pressure loss experienced by the flow is not as severe.

For systems that need to run continuously and do not have the option of being shut down for cleaning or other types of maintenance, the only flow strainer option available is the duplex basket strainer. This system is comprised of two different basket strainers that are connected through a system of pipes. They work in tandem, and at least one basket strainer is always active to remove particles from flow. Those particles need to be cleaned out so that they do not continuously build and eventually prevent any flow from taking place at all. The duplex basket flow strainer system allows for one basket strainer to be removed for cleaning while the other remains in operation. With this set-up, the flow strainer can be cleaned and maintained without sacrificing service operations, production, or the quality and purity of the liquid passing through that point in the pipe system.

A flow strainer can be maintained through basic regular checks and cleaning procedures, and the occasional replacement of a basket or screen. These parts can be purchased separately from the entire system, and extras should generally be on hand to allow for quick replacements during emergencies.