A strainer retains solid pieces when fluid passes through it in a piping system. A strainer makes the fluid pass through a straining element with tiny holes. The smaller the holes, the smaller the solid particles that will be trapped. Strainers protect equipment and processes from harmful effects, lowering maintenance and downtime. Using the right strainers at the correct locations (usually upstream) is necessary to protect expensive and critical downstream equipment such as pumps, flow meters, steam traps, control valves, and more.
Types of Strainers
- Y-strainer: Y-strainers have a straining element in a side branch that comes off at an angle, forming a letter Y. This type is commonly used in pressurized lines, steam, liquid, or gas but can also be applied in vacuum or suction situations.
- Basket Strainers: These strainers work similarly to Y strainers but have a different shape. Also, due to the greater free straining area, the size of pressure drops in a basket strainer is small compared to Y- strainers, making this type preferred in a liquid application.
- Tee Strainers: Tee strainers have a T-shaped body with a screen perpendicular to the flow direction. They are often used in horizontal piping systems and can handle high flow rates.
- Duplex Strainers: Duplex strainers consist of two separate strainer baskets that can be switched out without interrupting the flow of fluid. This allows for continuous operation during maintenance.
Applications
Strainers find applications in various industries, including water treatment, petrochemical, oil and gas, power generation, pulp and paper, and food and beverage. They are installed in piping systems upstream of sensitive equipment to protect them from damage and ensure uninterrupted operation.
Significance
Properly sized and maintained strainers are essential for piping systems’ efficient and reliable operation. By removing contaminants from the fluid stream, strainers help prevent equipment fouling, erosion, and corrosion, extending the equipment’s lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.
Maintenance
Regular inspection and cleaning of strainers are crucial to ensure their effectiveness. Depending on the application and the level of contamination, strainers may need to be cleaned or replaced periodically to prevent pressure drop across the strainer and maintain optimal flow rates.