How to Select a Pipeline Strainer

Three design criteria for proper strainer selection

Selection of the best pipeline strainer will contribute to the longevity of the piping system and enhances the quality of the product or process while minimizing maintenance requirements.

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Three Criteria for proper pipeline strainer selection

1. Choose the proper strainer configuration

2. Identify critical design criteria

   • Select the materials of construction

   • Determine the correct particle retention size

   • Choose a strainer size based upon fluid velocity and differential pressure

3. Identify installation space constraints

Strainer Configuration

There are several basic types of strainers and thus the first step is determining which style will work best for your application.

Y Strainers

Typically applied when the amount of particulate to remove is small because compared to other strainer designs their holding capacity is significantly less.  This type of strainer is also commonly used when frequent cleaning of the element isn’t necessary, which implies the particles removed consist of harder, coarse materials that can be drained from the element and that the particulate is not wedged into the element openings which would require manual cleaning. Y strainers have an advantage in that they can be installed both horizontally and vertically with a downwards flow orientation.

Simplex Basket Strainers

Having a single straining element, these are used for batch processes or when the process can be shut down to enable accessing of the element for cleaning.  Simplex strainers are the most common type of strainer where element cleaning is relatively frequent because they are designed with oversized elements that are easily accessed and cleaned.

Duplex Basket Strainers

Duplexed designs have two elements and designed for applications which require element cleaning without shutting down the process. One chamber is in service while the other is isolated and the determination of which basket is isolated and which is in service is made via a manually operated diverting valve.  The valve designs used for diversions range from several ball or butterfly valves operated in a distinct sequence to valves that are linked together to a single actuator.

Automatic Self-Cleaning Strainers

These are used for applications when manual cleaning is not convenient or practical, which can be the case if the need for cleaning is frequent or the installation is located in a difficult-to-reach location.  Particulate accumulates on the surface of the element and is purged from the strainer via the differential pressure of the system compared to atmospheric pressure or whatever the pressure required for the backwashed fluid to move from the strainer body.  A small portion of the filtered fluid is used during backwashing and the process itself can last from one second to a few minutes depending upon design and strainer size.

Temporary Strainers

Referred to as cone or basket strainers and sometimes "witch hat strainers", these fabricated products are designed to be inserted within a flanged pipe spool.  Temporary strainers are used for start-up of fluid systems, either after major retrofits or for entirely new systems where there is potential for construction debris to be removed from the pipeline.  Since they are not easily accessed, they are normally removed prior to production.

Pipeline Strainer Design Criteria

Pipeline strainers can be custom fabricated to have multiple connections and ports, made from exotic alloys, have custom coatings and engineered to meet specific design criteria involving differential pressure, flow velocity and particle holding capacity.

Materials of construction

The best practice is to provide a strainer made of the same material as the pipeline, especially when the temperatures are extreme or fluctuate because different materials have different coefficients of expansion.  Corrosive fluids can be handled several ways; exotic alloys, linings/coatings and engineered non-alloys are all options to explore.  In addition to the initial cost, each configuration will have different element designs and flow characteristics.

Particle Retention Size

Pipeline strainers are used to protect downstream equipment or processes from particulate, thus to ensure efficient removal the acceptable level of particle size and the performance tolerance must be established.  Pipeline strainers are used for macrofiltration applications where the retention efficiency is "nominal" or "approximate". 

Pipeline strainers are not designed for microfiltration applications requiring specific efficiencies.  Such "absolute" efficiencies are defined by engineered particle testing and establishment of a Beta Ratio – characteristics of our filter cartridge and bag filter designs.

It is commonplace to establish the element retention of pipeline strainers to be 1/4 to 1/3 of the maximum accepted particle size.  The idea is to retain the required particle size without being too aggressive and "over filtering", which simply increases the frequency of element cleaning.  Since many pipeline systems have areas of low velocities, such as between spray nozzle ports, smaller particulate can accumulate in these low velocity areas, clump together and become problematic.  This is one reason why it is desirable to install strainers and filters as close to the area to be protected as possible and much depends upon the physical characteristics of the particles within the system and the amount of them.

Relative element holding capacity is estimated by the ratio of open area, which is the comparison of the total open area of the element to the cross sectional area of the inlet pipe.  This figure varies from 2:1 to 6:1 depending upon the strainer design.

We provide free, no obligation fluid testing to establish the particle size range and concentration for critical applications; given a small sample of your fluid, such an analysis helps us ensure the strainer or filter is properly sized.

Fluid Velocity and Differential Pressure

Although it differs slightly with the particular strainer design, the target fluid velocity through a pipeline strainer ranges from 3 to 8 FPS with more viscous fluids operating at the lower end of the velocity range.  As our article Fluid Velocity and Differential Pressure describes, fluids can be transferred within pipelines at higher velocities however it is often detrimental to critical aspects of strainer element performance when the velocity through the screen exceeds 8 FPS.

Differential pressure increases exponentially because at some point the open area of the element is less than the cross sectional area of the inlet pipeline due to particulate accumulation.  Thus our sizing guidelines strive for an initial clean differential pressure of <= 2 PSI with the prompt for element cleaning after the differential pressure increases by approximately 5 PSI, which should afford sufficient time to access the vessel and clean the element.  Burst differential pressure of an element, which might be within a 20 to 30 PSI range, does not mean that deformation and thus inability to properly seal will not happen at lower pressures.  Likewise fast acting valves downstream of the strainer could contribute to "water hammer" pressure spikes.  The "water hammer" aspect is particularly problematic with non-alloy strainers and discussed in detail in our article Water Hammer Considerations for Plastic Valves and Strainers.

Always determine the strainers pressure class based upon the highest possible pressure and temperature, usually referred to as the design pressure/temperature.

Physical Location

Access to the strainer element is a key consideration; it should be safe, ergonomically accessible and have the proper clearances for removing the strainer element.  Custom fabricated strainers can accommodate same-side or 90º offset piping orientation.  There are also designs that minimize the distance the pipeline is above grade. The idea is to be able to vent and drain the basket chamber safely and easily.  Removing the element should not cause unnecessary straining or place the operator in an unnatural/unsafe position.

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One reason we are not offering "shopping cart" based e-commerce is that selecting the proper pipeline strainer involves consideration of many criteria besides the pipeline size, particle size to remove and material of construction.  We have designed our inquiry forms to be specific to the type of strainer in question and to prompt for the necessary design criteria so that we can provide a proposal for a properly sized pipeline strainer.  We can also help you compare different designs, perhaps between an exotic alloy custom fabricated simplex basket strainer and PTFE lined or entirely molded PVDF version.

The proper selection of pipeline strainers ensure ideal downstream quality and process conditions while minimizing labor, which in-turn enhances safety and reduces operating costs.  This is accomplished by identification of critical design criteria such as strainer configuration, material of construction and particle size to remove with consideration of fluid velocity, differential pressure and space constraints.

You need a Y Type Strainer to keep your equipment safe. It takes out unwanted stuff from liquids or gases. This helps your system work well. When you pick a strainer, look at things like pressure class, body material, mesh size, and connection type. These things are important. They change how the strainer works and if it fits your system.

Key Takeaways

• A Y Type Strainer keeps your equipment safe. It removes dirt and debris from liquids and gases. This helps everything work well and smoothly.
• Pick the right mesh size for your strainer. This helps catch bad particles but still lets things flow well.
• Clean the strainer screen often to keep it working. This helps your equipment last longer and stops clogs from happening.
• The 150LB Y Type Strainer can be used in many places. It works in oil and gas, water treatment, and food processing.
• Install the strainer the right way by following the rules. This makes sure it works well and does not leak.

Y Type Strainer Overview

What Is a Y Type Strainer

A Y Type Strainer is a tool that helps keep pipes clean. It removes unwanted bits from liquids, gases, or steam. The strainer has a Y-shaped body with a screen inside. This shape lets liquid flow through but catches bigger pieces. Clean liquid keeps moving, and dirt stays in a chamber. You can take out the dirt easily.

The Y Type Strainer is important for protecting equipment. It stops dirt from hurting pumps and valves. The Y-shape makes cleaning or changing the screen simple. You need to do this often to keep things working well.

• The Y Type Strainer catches big pieces and lets clean liquid go through.
• It takes out bad stuff from liquids, gases, or steam.
• The Y-shape helps you remove dirt easily and lowers pressure loss.
• Cleaning or changing the screen often keeps your system working well.
• This strainer keeps your equipment safe and helps your system work better.

Main Features

When you pick a 150LB Y Type Strainer, you get many good features. The strainer works well and is strong for many jobs. Here are some main features you should know:

You can also get other good things, like full automation and no need for much fixing. There are different filter choices for what you need. The 150LB Y Type Strainer helps save water and fits many systems.

STV Valve Technology Group Co., Ltd makes the 150LB Y Type Strainer. They are known for making good strainers and other products. You can trust their skill and many choices. Their prices are good and they care about quality, so they are a good pick for your needs.

Tip: If you take care of your Y Type Strainer often, your system will work better and your equipment will last longer.

For more foot valve strainerinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

Technical Specs

Pressure Class

You should know the pressure class before picking a strainer. The 150LB Y Type Strainer works at Class 150 LB pressure. This means it is good for low or medium-pressure jobs in factories. The pressure class shows how much pressure the strainer can handle safely. Look at the table below to see normal pressure ratings:

This strainer is used in systems that need Class 150 LB pressure. It works well with water, oil, gas, and other fluids. Always check your system’s pressure to make sure it matches the strainer.

Materials

The strainer’s material is important for strength and safety. The 150LB Y Type Strainer uses ASTM A216 WCB for its body. This is a kind of carbon steel. It is strong and fights against rust and damage. The screen inside is made from SS304 stainless steel. This metal is tough and does not rust easily. It works well with many fluids, even some that can cause rust.

Here is a quick list of common materials and their good points:

A carbon steel body and stainless steel screen make a strong strainer. This helps your system stay safe and last longer.

Mesh and Standards

Mesh size in your strainer decides what gets filtered out. The 150LB Y Type Strainer often uses a 40 mesh SS304 screen. Mesh size means how many holes are in one inch. A bigger mesh number means smaller holes and better filtering. For example, a 40 mesh screen catches smaller bits than a 10 mesh screen.

• Mesh size shows how fine the filter is.
• A bigger mesh number catches smaller bits.
• Pick a mesh size just smaller than the bits you want to catch.

SS304 mesh is strong and fights rust. It keeps your system safe from dirt and junk. The strainer follows important rules to make sure it works and fits right. These rules include:

These rules help you trust the strainer will fit and work. The strainer also passes hard tests, like API 598, to make sure it does not leak. You can use this strainer in many temperatures, from -29ºC to +425ºC. This covers most factory needs.

Note: Always check the mesh size and rules before you buy a strainer. This helps you get the right fit and best safety for your equipment.

Components

Body Design

The 150LB Y Type Strainer has a strong body. It uses carbon steel or stainless steel. These materials make it tough and last long. The Y-shape helps liquid move easily through the strainer. This shape also lowers pressure loss. Your system works better because of this. The strainer can handle hard jobs and keeps your equipment safe.

The body design lets you clean and fix it easily. You can reach the filter without taking out the whole strainer.

Strainer Element

The strainer element is the main part inside. It has a screen or mesh, usually stainless steel. This metal does not rust and lasts a long time. Mesh size goes from 18 to 480 eyes. You can pick the right one for your needs. The strainer element catches dirt and small bits. This protects pumps, valves, and compressors.

• Your equipment stays safe from dirt and junk.
• You get good filtering with little pressure loss.
• You can clean the strainer element easily to keep things working.

Connections

You need the right connection to put in the strainer. The 150LB Y Type Strainer gives you choices. Butt weld (BW) ends and flanged ends (RF/RTJ) are common. These follow ASME rules, so they fit most pipes.

You can attach the strainer tight and line it up right. This stops leaks and keeps your system working well.

Tip: Pick the connection that matches your pipe for the best fit.

Installation and Maintenance

Installation Steps

You want your 150LB Y Type Strainer to work well and last a long time. Careful installation helps you get the best results. Follow these steps for a safe and effective setup:

1. Flush the pipeline before you start. This removes any dirt or debris that could harm your new strainer.
2. Place the Y Type Strainer ahead of pumps or other equipment you want to protect.
3. Support the pipeline near the inlet and outlet. Use pipe hangers or brackets to keep the strainer steady.
4. Make sure the wye end points downward. This position lets debris collect and makes cleaning easier.
5. Align the flow arrow on the strainer with the direction of the fluid in your pipe.
6. Leave enough space around the strainer. You need room to remove the screen for cleaning.
7. Install a downflow valve at the blow-off connector if your system needs it.
8. Add a flow meter at the intake and output to check system efficiency.

Tip: Always check that the mesh size matches the particles in your system. The right mesh keeps your equipment safe.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Do not install the strainer backward. The flow must match the arrow.
• Never skip proper support. Unsupported pipes can bend or leak.
• Do not forget to check for leaks after installation.

Maintenance Tips

Regular care keeps your strainer working well. Here are some best practices:

1. Close the inlet and outlet valves before you start any maintenance.
2. Vent air from the system to prevent pressure build-up.
3. Inspect the air vent valve for blockages.
4. Remove the cover and take out the screen. Clean the mesh with water or by backflushing.
5. Check the screen for damage. Replace it if you see any holes or wear.
6. Reassemble the strainer and make sure all gaskets seal tightly.
7. Restore insulation if needed and check for leaks when you restart the system.

• Clean the screen often to stop clogs.
• Use only fluids that match the strainer’s material to prevent rust.
• Keep a maintenance schedule. This helps you catch problems early.