Select -strainers Vrs. Cone trainers

There are a number of issues to consider when thinking about strainers in the suction line to a pump or a compressor.

These issues would include, but not be limited to the following:
- Size

- Purpose or Function

- Operational considerations

- Ease of maintenance

- Cost

- Client prefference

So, let's take a look at some thoughts on each of these items.

- Size - There is a point on the pipe size scale where there will be a natural break between strainer types. Any suction line that is 2" NPS or smaller I would only select the Y-strainer. For 3" NPS and larger I would consider all other issues before deciding on a type.

- Purpose or Function - What is the purpose and function of the intended strainer? Is it because of concern for the pump (or compressor) during start-up in that there might be residual construction related material that was left in the line that would damage the equipment? Or is it being considered because the normal process is expected to contain or develop "lumps" that could damage the equipment? If it is for start-up you should lean towards the cone-strainer.

- Operational considerations - Depending on the function then which type will give me the most reliable and the most sustained operation. Shut-downs cost money and reduce profits due to loss in production.

- Ease of maintenance - All strainers will get plugged over time. The temporary (start-up) strainer is intended to be removed after some period of time. This might be anything from hours to days, to weeks or longer. This is a planned shut-down. The cone strainer requires far more time and effort to remove, clean and reinstall than the Y-Strainer.

- Cost - The cone strainer is normally a simple cone with holes, fitting inside the suction pipe. The Y-strainer includes the strainer basket and the full body that is the same material as the pipe and capable of the same pressure and temperature conditions as the pipe system. The cone strainer therefore is a far cheaper option than the Y-strainer of the same size.

- Client prefferance - This will normally be the issue that overrides all the other issues. If the Client says they do not want cone strainers then you could try to save them from themselves by showing them the cost difference and then if they still insist on Y-strainers then put in Y-strainers.

Using a Y-strainer is easier, which allows easy draining of impurities through the drain located at bottom of strainer, without need to shutdown the system. Also a disadvantage of using the cone strainer is the accumulating of impurities which eliminates the cross-sectional area of pipe and increases the pressure drop through the system, until dismantling and cleaning the strainer.

Note. Take care while assembling the strainer to be at the exact direction. A lot of people install it at the wrong direction.

The Client is the Boss and he is right. Quote him what he wants and as an alternate quote him Y-Strainer. You can do better - fit a 1/4" or 1/2" Ball Valve on the Y-Strainer-Screen Check nut and tell him he can clean the Y-Strainer on-line without shutdown & opening screens.Tell him this on-line cleaning option you will give on no-charge.