Dec 04, 2025
You must pick an oil filter that fits your equipment. The filter should match what your equipment needs. The right filter type and micron rating protect your machines. This helps stop early damage and keeps dirt out. Manufacturer advice helps you make good choices. Studies show using a Hydraulic Oil Filter Element made for your equipment helps a lot. It can make your equipment last longer. It also means you do not need to fix it as much.
Parameter
Standard Filter
Demalong Composite Sintered Filter
Average Equipment Life (months)
18
28
Average Oil Contamination Level (ISO 4406 Code)
19/17/14
16/14/11
Maintenance Frequency (per year)
4-5
2-3
Picking the right filter helps your equipment work better and stay clean.
Key Takeaways
Pick an oil filter that fits your equipment’s needs. This helps your equipment work well and stops damage.
Look at the micron rating of the filter. A lower rating traps smaller bits and keeps oil cleaner.
Use the manufacturer’s advice for picking and caring for your filter. This helps you avoid expensive problems and keeps your equipment safe.
Check and change your oil filter often, depending on how much you use your equipment. This helps your machines work better and last longer.
Choose between OEM and aftermarket filters by checking if they fit and are good quality. OEM filters usually fit best and work well.
What Is an Oil Filter Element
Role in Equipment Protection
An oil filter element helps keep your equipment safe. It sits inside the filter housing. It works whenever oil moves through your machine. The element cleans oil as it goes by. This stops dirt and bad particles from reaching important parts. Using the right element protects your engine and moving parts from damage. The element catches dust, metal shavings, and small bits from burning fuel. If you do not use a good element, these things can build up and hurt your machine. The element also helps your equipment run better by stopping harmful stuff from sticking inside. You will see fewer problems and your machines will last longer if you pick the right element.
The element makes engine oil cleaner as it moves.
The element keeps engine parts safe from damage.
The element helps your machine work well by stopping bad build-up.
The element traps things like dust, metal shavings, and leftovers.
Tip: Always look at your equipment manual to find the right element for your filter. Using the wrong element can cause damage sooner.
Types: Full-Flow, Bypass, Combined
There are different oil filter elements for your equipment. Each type works in its own way to keep oil clean. The full-flow element is used the most. This element cleans all the oil before it goes to the engine. The full-flow element uses special materials to catch even tiny dirt. It can hold more dirt and lets oil move quickly. The bypass element works in another way. This element only cleans a little bit of oil at a time. The bypass element makes oil even cleaner but does not slow down the main oil flow. Some equipment uses a combined element. This element tries to do both jobs. The combined element can clean a lot of oil and polish it too. But this element might slow oil flow, especially when the oil is cold.
Full-flow filter element: Cleans all oil before it goes to the engine. Works well and holds a lot of dirt.
Bypass filter element: Cleans only some oil. Makes oil cleaner without slowing it down.
Combined filter element: Does both jobs. Might slow oil and work less well when oil is cold.
You should choose the element type that fits your equipment’s needs. The right element keeps oil clean and your equipment safe.
Key Factors to Choose the Right Filter
Picking the right filter helps your machines work well. You need to think about a few important things. These things are your equipment’s specs, the filter’s micron rating, how often you change oil, and if you use an OEM or aftermarket filter. Each thing helps you match the filter to your equipment and where you use it.
Equipment Specs and Compatibility
Always start with your equipment’s specs. These specs tell you what your machine needs. If you do not match the filter to these specs, your machine may not work well. It could even get damaged. Look in your equipment manual. It will tell you the right flow rate, the size of particles to catch, and what kinds of dirt to remove.
Here is a table that shows the most important specs to check:
Specification Type
Description
Flow Rate
How much fluid goes through the filter each time.
Particle Size Filtration Capability
The sizes of dirt the filter can catch to keep things clean.
Cleanliness Levels Required in System
The level of cleanliness needed for the most sensitive part.
Types of Contaminants
The kinds of dirt to filter out, like dust, water, and sludge.
Your oil can have different kinds of dirt. These are:
Dirt, like dust, metal chips, rust, and wear bits
Water, which can come from leaks or wet air
Sludge, which forms when oil gets too hot
Pick a filter that matches your equipment’s needs. Earthmoving machines need strong filters ,like Heavy Duty Oil Filter Element, because they work in dusty places. Cranes and forklifts need filters that keep oil clean but do not face as much dirt. Road construction machines need filters that can handle high heat and heavy work.
Equipment Type
Filter Requirements
Maintenance Schedule
Earthmoving Equipment
Strong filters that hold lots of dirt for dusty places
Change more often than cranes or forklifts
Cranes and Forklifts
Filters that keep oil clean, less dirt to handle
Change at normal times, not as often
Road Construction Equipment
Filters that work with high heat and heavy loads
Change based on how hard the machine works
Tip: Always check your equipment’s manual before picking a filter. This helps you avoid mistakes that cost money.
Micron Ratings and Filtration Efficiency
Micron rating means the size of dirt the filter can catch. A lower micron number means the filter traps smaller dirt. Match the micron rating to your equipment’s needs. If the micron rating is too high, small dirt can get through. If it is too low, the filter may clog fast or slow down oil flow.
Here is a table that shows common micron ratings and where to use them:
Micron Rating (µm)
Application
Industry
1 and lower
Used for very clean jobs (food, medicine, electronics)
Many
5
Used for general cleaning
Many
10
Used to protect other equipment
Many
30
Used for cooling towers and first cleaning
Many
50 and higher
Used to protect pumps and compressors
Many
Different micron ranges fit different jobs:
800–400 µm: Used for resin and paint before main cleaning (cars, coatings)
200–100 µm: Used for sand, rust, and big dirt (water cleaning)
50–25 µm: Used for liquids and chemical mixes (oil and gas)
25–10 µm: Used to clean drinks (food and drinks)
5–1 µm: Used to remove germs and polish liquids (medicine)
0.5–0.1 µm: Used for very clean liquids (electronics, labs)
Filtration efficiency is also important. It means how well the filter removes dirt. High filtration efficiency keeps oil clean and protects your equipment. If the filter does not work well, dirt can build up and cause damage. This can make your machine work worse and not last as long.
Note: Always balance micron rating and filtration efficiency. The right balance keeps oil clean and your equipment safe.
Oil Change Interval and Maintenance
Think about how often you change your oil and filter. Some machines work in dirty places and need changes more often. Other machines can go longer between changes. If you do not change your filter enough, it can clog. This can slow oil flow and hurt your machine.
Set your oil change time based on:
The kind of equipment you use
How hard and how often you use it
The place where you use your equipment
Earthmoving machines need more changes because they work in dust. Cranes and forklifts can go longer between changes. Road construction machines may need changes based on heat and hard work.
Tip: Keep a log for maintenance. Write down when you change oil and filter. This helps you find problems early and pick the right filter next time.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Filters
You can pick OEM filters or aftermarket filters. OEM filters come from the company that made your equipment. These filters match your machine’s specs and usually work well. Aftermarket filters come from other companies. Some aftermarket filters work as well as OEM filters, but some may not fit or work right.
When you pick a filter, think about:
If it fits your equipment
How good it is and how well it cleans
How much it costs and if you can get it easily
If you want the best fit, use an OEM Hydraulic Oil Filter. If you want to save money, you can try a trusted aftermarket filter. Always check that the filter matches your equipment’s specs and cleans well.
Note: Never use a filter that does not fit your equipment. A bad fit can cause leaks or let dirt through, which can hurt your machine.
By thinking about these key things, you can pick the right filter for your equipment. This helps your machines work well, avoid problems, and get the best results every day.
Cleanliness and System Requirements
Understanding Cleanliness Levels
It is important to know about cleanliness. Cleanliness means how many tiny bits are in your oil. If you keep your oil clean, your hydraulic system works better. Clean oil helps your equipment last longer. Too many particles can hurt pumps, valves, and seals. Cleanliness levels show how clean your oil is. You can measure this with the ISO 4406 standard. This standard counts particles in three sizes: 4 microns, 6 microns, and 14 microns. Each higher number means twice as many particles. Cleaner oil has fewer particles. This means less damage and less wear.
Aspect
Description
Standard Name
ISO 4406
Purpose
Shows how many particles are in hydraulic and lubrication fluids.
Measurement Method
Counts solid particles in three sizes: 4 μm, 6 μm, and 14 μm.
Scale
Each bigger code number means double the particles.
Importance
Helps you decide how well your filter works and if your system is healthy.
Target Cleanliness Level
Picked based on how sensitive your equipment is and where it works.
Consequences of Non-compliance
More wear, stuck valves, and equipment breaking too soon.
Different hydraulic systems need different cleanliness levels. Low-pressure gear pumps use 20-micron filters and aim for ISO 20/18/15. Systems with servo valves need cleaner oil. They use 3-micron filters and want ISO 16/14/11. If you do not meet the right cleanliness level, your machine can wear out faster. It may not work well or could break.
Tip: Clean oil means fewer problems. Always check your hydraulic system’s cleanliness level to keep your equipment safe.
Impact on Filter Selection
Cleanliness levels help you pick the right oil filter element. You need a filter that removes enough particles for your system. If your system needs ISO 16/13, use a filter that catches 99 percent of 10-micron particles. The right filter keeps your oil clean. It stops bad particles from hurting your equipment.
Here are steps to help you choose a filter:
Check what cleanliness level your hydraulic system needs.
Find out what kinds of dirt and particles you must remove.
Pick a filter with the right micron rating and efficiency.
Make sure the filter fits your oil type, flow rate, and where you use it.
Hydraulic systems in tough places need stronger filters. If you use the wrong filter, your machine may wear out faster. It might work slowly and cost more to fix. Clean oil helps your hydraulic system run well. If you ignore cleanliness, seals, valves, and pumps can get damaged.
Consequence
Description
Accelerated component wear
Dirty oil makes parts wear out faster and lowers system efficiency.
Performance degradation
Dirty oil can make your machine work slowly and not as well.
Increased operational costs
More dirt means more repairs and higher energy use.
Machine failure
Too much dirt can break important parts like servo valves.
Seal damage
Dirty seals can leak, cause safety problems, and cost a lot to fix.
Note: Always match your filter to your hydraulic system’s cleanliness level. This keeps your oil clean and protects your equipment from damage.
Hydraulic and Return Line Filter Elements
Choosing a Hydraulic Oil Filter Element
You should pick a hydraulic oil filter element that fits your system. First, look at what your machine needs. Think about how much pressure and flow your system has. Also, think about what kind of dirt is in your oil. If your machine is sensitive, use a hydraulic oil filter element with a lower micron rating. This helps catch tiny dirt and keeps oil clean.
Use this checklist when you pick a hydraulic oil filter element:
Check your system’s pressure and flow.
Pick a micron rating that fits your machine. Lower ratings catch smaller dirt.
Choose a filter media type that fits your place and budget.
Ask experts or filter makers if you need help.
The environment matters too. High heat and quick pressure changes can hurt a hydraulic oil filter element. You need a filter that can handle these things. Some hydraulic oil filter elements work better with biodegradable oils. These oils help nature and follow safety rules.
Tip: Always match your hydraulic oil filter element to your machine’s needs and working place. This helps your equipment last longer.
Selecting a Return Line Filter Element
A return line filter element cleans oil before it goes back to the tank. You need to pick a return line filter element that fits your oil type. This stops chemical damage and keeps your system safe. The return line filter element works in low-pressure spots. It does not need to be as strong as a hydraulic oil filter element.
Here is a table to help you check if a return line filter element fits:
Factor
Explanation
Benefit
Compatibility
Match filter with fluid type
Stops chemical damage
System needs for a return line filter element are not the same as for a hydraulic oil filter element. Look at this table:
Feature
Return Line Filter Element
Hydraulic Oil Filter Element
Pressure Handling
Low-pressure
High-pressure
Robustness
Less strong
More strong
Design
Simple
Complex
A return line filter element catches dirt before oil goes back to the tank. This helps your hydraulic system work better and last longer. You need to pick a return line filter element that fits your system. The return line filter element affects how well your machine works and how long it lasts.
A return line filter element takes dirt out of hydraulic fluid.
The return line filter element helps keep your tank clean.
You need a return line filter element that fits your oil type.
The return line filter element should match your system’s flow.
Pick a return line filter element that works in your place.
The return line filter element must handle your system’s heat.
Always check the size of the return line filter element.
The return line filter element should fit your machine’s needs.
A return line filter element helps stop damage and wear.
The return line filter element makes fixing things easier.
You need to change the return line filter element on time.
The return line filter element can help you spend less on repairs.
A return line filter element helps your machine run well.
The return line filter element keeps oil clean for longer.
You should use a return line filter element that fits your tank size.
The return line filter element should be easy to put in.
A return line filter element helps protect pumps and valves.
The return line filter element can make your system work better.
You need a return line filter element that meets your clean goals.
The return line filter element is important for system health.
Note: Always pick the right filter for your machine. The return line filter element and hydraulic oil filter element work together to keep your system clean and safe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Wrong Size or Type
Picking the wrong oil filter element can cause big problems. If the filter is too small, it cannot hold enough dirt. This lets bad stuff get into your machine. A small filter can also block oil from moving. This lowers oil pressure and makes metal parts rub. That can hurt the engine and cause more repairs.
If the filter does not fit, oil might leak out. A filter with the wrong thread or gasket will not seal tight. Oil can leak and parts may not get enough oil. Using the wrong micron rating lets big dirt get through. This can make engine parts hot and break them.
Here is a table that shows common mistakes and what happens:
Mistake Type
Description
Compatibility Issues
Filter does not match equipment model, causing poor performance.
Quality Concerns
Low-quality filters need more changes and may not block unwanted contaminants.
Maintenance Issues
Wrong filter size shortens lifespan and increases repair needs.
Tip: Always look in your manual to find the right filter size and type.
Ignoring Manufacturer Guidelines
Not following the manual can hurt your machine. The manual tells you which filter is best for your equipment. If you use a filter that does not fit, it may not clean the oil. Some filters do not work with your oil or machine. This can damage your machine and even hurt people.
Always follow the maintenance schedule in the manual. If you skip filter changes or use the wrong filter, your machine can wear out faster. This can also cancel your warranty and cost more to fix.
Use filters that meet the right standards.
Pick OEM filters if you can, so they fit well.
Change filters when your manual says to.
Overlooking Operating Conditions
You need to think about where your machine works. Dust, water, and heat all change what filter you need. If you use your machine in dust, pick a filter that holds more dirt. If it is wet, use a filter with synthetic media like polyester. This works better with water than paper.
If your machine uses chemicals, pick a filter made for that. Polypropylene filters work well with chemicals. If you do not match the filter to your place, your machine can break faster.
Check for dust, water, and heat in your work area.
Pick filters that match your machine’s pressure and heat needs.
Make sure the filter media works with your fluids.
Note: Watching your work area helps you avoid mistakes and keeps your equipment working well.
Picking the right oil filter element helps your equipment work well and stay safe. When you use the right filter, oil moves better and the filter catches more dirt. The filter can also hold more dirt before it needs changing. If you take care of your filter often, your equipment stays safe, breaks down less, and you spend less money.
Benefit
Description
Improved equipment performance
Taking care of your equipment helps it work better.
Increased equipment reliability
Checking your equipment often stops it from breaking.
Reduced equipment downtime
Good care means your machine stops working less often.
Lower maintenance costs
Looking after your machine saves money on fixing it.
Extended equipment lifespan
Good care helps your equipment last a long time.
If you are not sure what filter to use, look in your equipment manual or ask someone who knows. Make sure you always pick the right filter and check it often. This helps your machines work their best.
FAQ
What happens if you use the wrong oil filter element?
You risk engine damage and more repairs. The wrong filter may not fit or clean oil well. Oil can leak or stay dirty. Always check your manual before you choose a filter.
How often should you change your oil filter element?
You should change your oil filter element at every oil change. For most machines, this means every 250 to 500 hours. Check your equipment manual for the best schedule.
Can you use an aftermarket oil filter element?
You can use an aftermarket filter if it matches your equipment’s specs. Always pick a trusted brand. Make sure the filter fits well and meets the right micron rating.
Why does micron rating matter?
Micron rating shows the size of dirt the filter can catch. A lower number means the filter traps smaller particles. The right micron rating keeps your oil clean and protects your equipment.
How do you know which filter element to buy?
Check your equipment manual first. Look for the right size, type, and micron rating. If you are not sure, ask a professional or your equipment dealer for help.
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