The Difference Between Oil Suction Filter Elements and Oil Return Filter Elements

In hydraulic systems, there are two crucial but often confused components – oil suction filter elements and oil return filter elements. Although the two are often mistakenly regarded as the same product, they each have unique responsibilities within the system. Oil suction filter elements and oil return filter elements complement each other, ensuring the efficient and stable operation of hydraulic systems.

Oil Suction Filter Elements VS Oil Return Filter Elements
Oil Suction Filter Elements Oil Return Filter Elements
A pleated oil suction filter element Two oil return filter elements with a perforated pattern
Position Installed on the oil suction filter, it is located at a critical position at the oil pump's suction port, bearing the important responsibility of guarding the hydraulic system's 'first line of defense'. Located in the return oil pipeline or return oil line, it thoroughly filters out contaminants generated or intruded within the system before they flow back to the oil tank.
Features
  • Powerful oil flow capability. It ensures sufficient liquid supply to meet the oil pump's flow requirements, prevents cavitation, and guarantees efficient operation of the oil pump.
  • High filtration performance. It is good at intercepting large particle impurities, keeping the oil clean, and providing assurance for the stable operation of the hydraulic system.
  • Low pressure loss. While achieving efficient filtration, it minimizes the impact on system pressure to enhance the efficiency of the hydraulic system.
  • Durable materials. Made from high-quality stainless steel woven mesh, it offers excellent resistant to high temperatures and corrosion, and can be cleaned repeatedly, significantly improving durability and cost-effectiveness.
  • Coarse filter element function. Focused on intercepting large particle impurities, it serves as a critical preliminary filtration stage in the hydraulic system.
  • Fine filtration accuracy. Its filter rating typically ranges between 10–30 μm. It can precisely capture fine contaminants, ensuring that the oil returned to the oil tank is cleaner, providing clean 'blood' for the entire hydraulic system's circulation.
  • Specific installation location. It is installed on the hydraulic return line, specifically at the rear end of the oil pump outlet, where the oil completes its work cycle and is about to return to the oil tank, performing the final 'purification check'.
  • Precision filter element positioning. With its fine filtration capability, it belongs to the category of precision filter elements and plays an irreplaceable role in ensuring the normal operation of precision components in hydraulic systems.
Considerations for Filter Element Selection

Only by thoroughly understanding the differences and characteristics of oil suction filter elements and oil return filter elements, and accurately selecting based on actual needs, can the hydraulic system operate efficiently, stably, and safely, providing strong support for our production and daily life. The following points need to be emphasized when selecting filter element parameters:

  • Filter rating. Based on the requirements of the hydraulic system and the degree of oil contamination, accurately select an appropriate filter rating to efficiently filter impurities without affecting system flow and pressure.
  • Material selection. Combine the system environment and oil characteristics to choose proper filter element materials, such as fiberglass or stainless steel, to meet the requirements for corrosion resistance, strength, and filtration performance.
  • Flow matching. Ensure that the filter element flow meets system requirements to avoid operational issues or premature clogging of the filter element due to insufficient flow.
  • Structure and dimensions. The filter element structure and external dimensions should be compatible with the system installation space and pipeline layout to ensure easy installation and stable operation.

Boedon's oil suction filter elements and oil return filter elements come in various product lines, each tailored to meet specific industrial needs. Whether you need designs for heavy-duty applications or specialized solutions to tackle unique environmental challenges, our diverse product line ensures there is a solution to enhance your operational efficiency and meet stringent performance standards.