Y Strainers Uncovered: Mesh Selection & Installation Tricks

Choosing the Right Mesh Size for Your Y Strainer

Choosing the right mesh size for a Y Strainer is crucial, as selecting one that’s too fine or too coarse can negatively impact the system. If the mesh size is too small, the pressure drop between the inlet and outlet can increase significantly, and the accumulation of debris might clog the screen, further raising pressure drop and disrupting fluid flow.

Conversely, if the mesh size is too large, it may fail to capture impurities effectively, allowing particles to pass through and potentially damage downstream equipment, leading to reduced performance or a shorter lifespan.

The mesh size of a Y Strainer refers to its filtration precision, measured by the number of openings per linear inch. Specifically, it indicates the number of mesh openings in a 1-inch by 1-inch area.

For instance, a 200-mesh screen has 200 openings per inch, meaning it can filter out particles small enough to pass through these openings. The larger the mesh number, the finer the particle size it can filter. Conversely, a smaller mesh number indicates the ability to filter larger particles.

Here is the selection and corresponding table for the mesh number and aperture of Y - type Strainer.

Mesh selection recommendations

Coarse Filtration (10–40 mesh):
Ideal for primary filtration to remove visible particles.
Commonly used for applications like circulating water and industrial cooling water, where high precision isn’t required.

Medium Precision Filtration (60–100 mesh):
Often used in industrial processes, heating, and cooling systems.
Helps protect pumps and valves from damage caused by small to medium-sized particles.

High Precision Filtration (150 mesh and above):
Suitable for industries like food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals, where cleanliness standards are strict.
Effectively removes fine particles to ensure fluid purity.

How to Install a Y Strainer

1. Steam or Gas Pipelines
   In steam or gas pipelines, the filter screen of the Y strainer should be installed horizontally. This orientation allows the filter to effectively capture any solid particles that may be present as the gas or steam flows through the pipe.
2. Liquid Pipelines
   For liquid pipelines, the filter screen should face downward. As liquids flow, gravity naturally causes solid debris to settle. A downward-facing filter helps trap these particles more efficiently, improving filtration performance.
3. Installed at Equipment Inlets
   When protecting equipment like pumps or heat exchangers, the Y strainer should be placed at the inlet pipe to these devices.
4. Installed on Main System Pipelines
   Y strainers are often installed on the main system pipeline to perform preliminary filtration for the entire fluid system.
5. Vertical or Horizontal Installation

• Vertical Installation:
  In a vertical setup, the fluid should enter from the bottom opening of the strainer and exit from the top. This arrangement uses gravity to help sediment collect at the bottom of the strainer, making it easier to remove.
• Horizontal Installation:
  When installed horizontally, follow the direction of the arrow on the strainer body to ensure the proper flow direction—from one side of the Y strainer to the other. Make sure the drain port is positioned downward to allow easy removal of debris during maintenance.

How to Clean a Y Strainer

1. Preparation:
   Begin by closing the valves upstream and downstream of the strainer to isolate it from the system and prevent fluid from spilling during cleaning. Open the air vent or drain valve to release any residual pressure, then close the valve once the pressure is relieved. Gather the necessary tools and supplies, including a suitable wrench, a container for collecting residual liquid, a wire brush, and cleaning agents.
2. Disassembling the Strainer:
   Use the wrench to loosen and remove the nuts or bolts securing the strainer cover. Carefully take off the cover and remove the filter element from the housing. If clips or screws are holding the element in place, remove them first.
3. Cleaning the Components:
   Inspect the filter element carefully. If it’s heavily damaged, replace it; if the damage is minor, it can be repaired. Choose the cleaning method based on the type of blockage—rinse dirt or sediment with clean water, use a degreaser for oil stains, and scrub stubborn debris gently with a wire brush. Clean the strainer housing and cover thoroughly with a brush and cleaning agent.
4. Reassembly:
   Place the cleaned filter element back into its original position, ensuring it is securely installed. Reattach the cover, align the bolt holes, and evenly tighten the nuts or bolts with the wrench.
5. Testing:
   Slowly open the upstream valve and check for leaks around all connections. If the downstream fluid flows cleanly without debris, the cleaning process was successful. Fully open both upstream and downstream valves to return the system to normal operation.

Union Valve is a professional valve manufacturer that not only provides a wide range of standard valves, but also provides custom designs to meet customers' exact specifications. If you have any other questions, please contact us.

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