How do ventilating filters work and what advantages do they offer for hydraulic systems?
The oil level in hydraulic tanks is subject to constant fluctuations. In order to avoid impermissible pressures in the tank, a continuous exchange of air with the outside atmosphere is required for pressure equalization. This is where the ventilating filter comes into play.
It filters the air drawn in from outside and at the same time protects the system against the ingress of dirt. ARGO-HYTOS offers ventilating filters that not only keep out dirt and humidity. They also simplify maintenance and extend the service life of the system. Find out here how ventilating filters work and what specific advantages the components offer for hydraulic systems.
Technical function of aeration filters
Ventilating filters enable efficient air exchange in hydraulic systems, which compensates for pressure fluctuations in the hydraulic tank. At the same time, they effectively filter the intake air and keep out dirt particles. A drying granulate also absorbs humidity from the ambient air drawn in.
A check valve ensures that the exchange of air with the environment is reduced. This means that less dirt can enter the tank from the environment. The precise adjustment of the response pressure of the check valve to the system requirements ensures efficient protection and optimum operating conditions.
How are ventilating filters used?
The main task of ventilating filters is to protect hydraulic systems from contamination by the outside air. At the same time, the necessary air exchange for pressure compensation in the hydraulic tank is ensured. Pressure compensation is important because the oil level in a hydraulic tank can vary. The reasons for this are:
- Temperature fluctuations
- Operating conditions
- Movement of working cylinders used
Without adequate air exchange, the fluctuations could lead to unacceptable pressure conditions in the tank. This could impair system performance or even cause damage.
Technically speaking, ventilating filters fulfill two main functions. They let air into the tank to prevent negative pressure. And they let air out to prevent overpressure.
During this process, they effectively filter particles and impurities from the air. These could otherwise enter the system and contaminate the hydraulic fluid. Modern ventilating filters are also able to absorb humidity from the air. This prevents the formation of condensation in the tank and thus minimizes quality degradation of the hydraulic fluid used.
Various operating parameters must be taken into account when selecting ventilating filters. These include, for example, the maximum air flow rate. This is required to effectively regulate the pressure in the tank without compromising filter efficiency. We would be happy to help you select the right filter for your application. Please feel free to contact our experts at any time.
What types of contamination can occur in hydraulic systems?
Various types of contamination can occur in hydraulic systems, which can pose a considerable risk to the functionality and service life of the system. The most common types of contamination include solid particles such as dust, sand and metal abrasion. Liquids, especially water, can also enter the system and cause corrosion and degradation of the hydraulic fluid. Chemical contamination caused by oxidation or decomposition of the hydraulic fluid also impairs system performance.
Contamination can lead to a variety of problems, including increased wear on pumps, valves and other hydraulic components. They can reduce the efficiency of the system, lead to leaks and, in the worst case, cause system failures.
The precision of hydraulic controls can be impaired by contamination, which jeopardizes the safety and reliability of the entire system. Therefore, effective filtration and regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the cleanliness of the hydraulic fluid. It also minimizes the risks posed by contamination.
Comprehensive portfolio of ventilating filters from ARGO-HYTOS
ARGO-HYTOS offers a broad portfolio of ventilating filters that can be used to protect hydraulic systems from contamination efficiently, economically and sustainably.
In addition to standard ventilating filters, our product range also includes variants with patented Vandalism Proof features that offer reliable protection against unauthorized access.
The safety system ensures that the ventilating filters can only be removed with the special tool supplied. This makes it considerably more difficult to remove the filter or fill in dirt via the tank interface.
Filling and ventilating filters from ARGO-HYTOS are available in capacities of 200 l/min for filling filters and up to 850 l/min for ventilating filters. If required, they can also be equipped with additional vandalism protection.
Ventilating dryers and ventilating filters with desiccant not only filter the intake air, but also absorb humidity using an efficient drying granulate. These filters offer protection against the ingress of solid particles as well as humidity, snow, spray or rainwater.
They are designed for nominal flow rates of up to 400 l/min and water absorption of up to 280 g. These filters are ideal for venting and bleeding oil tanks in hydraulic and lubrication systems, gearbox housings, transformers and fuel tanks.
Special features and advantages of ARGO-HYTOS ventilating filters
ARGO-HYTOS ventilating filters offer solutions that go far beyond the basic function of air exchange. They are specifically designed to maximize the efficiency and reliability of hydraulic systems. This is because they offer a range of unique benefits and special features.
A key element is the double check valve, which minimizes air exchange and thus significantly reduces the ingress of dirt and dust. This leads to a longer service life of the system.
Another important feature is the swash protection. It prevents oil from the tank from entering the ventilating filter or escaping into the environment. This ensures the cleanliness and safety of the operating area. This is a real plus for occupational safety and the environment.
The integration of dipsticks directly on the ventilating filter allows the oil level to be checked easily and accurately. The clogging indicator shows the optimum time for filter maintenance. Our patented Vandalism Proof ventilating filters, which can only be removed with a special tool, offer additional protection against theft and contamination.
Another advantage is the option of integrating ventilating filters into the head sections of tank-mounted return filters. This integration saves costs by eliminating the need for an additional interface for the ventilating filter. Potential leakage points are also avoided. Maintenance work is significantly simplified by using the head section of the return filter on the housing to accommodate the ventilating filter.
Special features & advantages in a compact overview
- The double check valve reduces air exchange and minimizes the ingress of dirt.
- A swash protection prevents oil from escaping from the tank.
- Integrated dipsticks make it easy to check the oil level.
- The integrated clogging indicator signals the optimum time for filter maintenance.
- The patented Vandalism Proof design ensures reliable protection against unauthorized removal or contamination.
- Integration in tank-mounted return filters saves costs and simplifies maintenance.
Conclusion: The importance of ventilating filters in hydraulic systems
Ventilating filters are an indispensable component for maintaining the efficiency, safety and longevity of hydraulic systems. The filters protect the system from the many dangers that can arise from contamination. They do this by filtering the intake air and effectively trapping humidity and particles. The components reliably prevent pressure imbalances and ensure the cleanliness of the hydraulic fluid in the long term.
ARGO-HYTOS offers your company exactly the right products for your specific needs with an extensive portfolio of filter technologies. We would be happy to advise you in a personal meeting on the many advantages that our ventilating filters offer you in daily use. Get in touch with us right away!