There are many types of basket strainers in the industry.

They include:

a) Simplex Basket Strainer

The good thing about the simplex basket strainers is their flexibility.

You can install it virtually anywhere in the pipe system.

However, from time to time, you will need to change the strainers or clean them.

Implying, you have to shut down the line.

Simplex Basket Strainer

b) Duplex Basket Strainer

The duplex strainer is basically two simplex strainers linked together with a control valve.

Therefore, instead of shutting off the line, you will simply switch the basket strainers.

That is when one basket strainer is clogged, simply switch to the second basket while doing the cleaning.

If you have pipe systems that do not require interruptions or shut down, then go for a duplex basket strainer.

Duplex Basket Strainer

c) Y Basket Strainer

Y basket strainers share virtually all characteristics with the simplex basket strainer.

However, as the name suggests, the shape is quite different – “Y-shape”.

Look at the orientation of the basket strainer:

 Y Basket Strainer

d) Fabricated Strainers

Fabricated strainers offer a perfect solution in custom applications.

They are perfect alternatives to cast strainers.

Of course, there is nothing different here except for the manufacturing process.

Otherwise, all the other aspects remain the same.

Fabricated basket strainers may have perforated wedge wire, mesh, or metal.

They play an important role in many piping system components such as nozzles, sprinkler heads, valves, and turbines.

Fabricated Basket Strainer

Depending on the type of application, you can choose cast metal modifications or piping connection.

Besides, they are a perfect choice where there are space limitations.

Like other basket strainers, you can achieve virtually anything with fabricated basket strainers.

Of course for custom basket strainers, you can always discuss this with the manufacturer.

They should be able to custom make one for you, whether you want a simplex basket strainer, Y basket strainer, duplex basket strainer, or T basket strainers.

e) Pipeline Basket Strainer

Although is an important classification criterion, the 4 basket strainers can work as pipeline basket strainers.

It will depend on their exact location in the pipeline.

Basically, they will trap and retain foreign materials in the pipe system.

Therefore, depending on the nature of the application, you can choose:

• Simplex basket strainer
• Duplex basket strainer
• Y basket strainer or,
• Fabricated basket strainer

More importantly, you must understand all the critical parameters of both the fluid and basket strainers.

You will learn more about that later in this guide.

A high-pressure gas pipeline uses Y-strainers in most functions.

Of course, most of them have low dirt holding capacity than the duplex basket strainers.

Again, when it comes to T- strainers, you need to install them in an upright position.

Have a look at this:

As you can see, the T-basket strainer is a unique version of the simplex or duplex basket strainer.

It is worth noting that T basket strainers are suitable for pipelines that require service all the time.

During this time, you will bypass the line.

In a nutshell, these are the main types of basket strainers.

Now, let’s move to yet another important aspect of basket strainers:

Now, even before we proceed, you can watch this video:

That was a duplex basket strainer.

Let’s have a look at Y basket strainer – look at this:

As you can see, the working principle of the basket strainer is straightforward.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re using a duplex, simple, or Y- strainer.

You need to identify both the outlet and the inlet.

Once you connect the strainer appropriately, this is what happens:

The fluid flows into the suction segment through the filter casing.

As fluid flows, the strainer traps and holds all foreign materials.

These may include seaweeds, plastics, large particles, etc.

A well-functioning strainer effectively blocks foreign substances.

Besides, the strainer may have several compartments.

Each of the compartments plays a particular role in the process.

The basket strainer has two sides; one is the suction side, and the other is the discharge side.

You will use a plug to drain the fluid in from the compartments.

Fluid gets drained either from the top of the base.

You need to be careful to avoid the uncontrollable gush of fluids.

It is advisable that you slacken the various bolts and use a plastic hammer to tap them in a gentle way.

You can as well opt for a plastic mallet.

Depending on the pressure rates, the lid will behave in a particular way.

When the pressure is high, you will see the lid lift off slightly.

Remember the target is to ensure that a massive gush doesn’t occur.

You should use an eye bolt to regulate pressure.

It is a simple exercise involving closing both the suction and the discharge valve.

From there, you proceed to slacken the bolts.

It helps you know the amount of pressure in the basket strainer.

Basket Strainer

Remember, rubber is mostly an ideal material for gasket construction.

It is important that you take your time to align the gasket the right way.

In a nutshell, the working principle of duplex basket strainer involves basic steps:

i. Fluid flows into basket strainer via the inlet

ii. Basket strainer traps all dirt, debris, or particles

iii. Once it gets clogged, the pressure difference will trigger the alarm

iv. Depending on the design of the strainer, you can shut down the pipe system or direct flow to the next basket strainer

Basically, the process is not complicated.

With that in mind, let’s look at the main specifications of basket strainers.

Whenever you are buying basket strainers, pay attention to specifications that will improve performance and reliability.

And in this section, I will walk you through 5 important specifications of basket strainers.

Let’s dive right in.

1. Construction material

The choice of basket strainer material is critical.

It will determine:

• An environment where you can use the duplex strainer
• Effectiveness, reliability, and efficiency
• Durability

Cross-section of Stainless Steel Basket Strainer

Basically, depending on the type of application, you can choose any of these materials:

• Stainless steel
• Iron
• Bronze
• Carbon steel

The choice of basket strainer material will depend on the nature of the application.

2. Flow rates

This is the rate at which fluid flows through a basket strainer.

Whenever you are buying a basket strainer, ensure it meets the right flow rates.

You can share your system specifications with your manufacturer.

Flow Rate and Pressure

3. Basket strainer perforations

A proper choice of the basket mesh or perforation defines efficiency and effectiveness.

Basically, the basket strainer perforations determine the amount of fluid that can pass through and the debris or dirt it blocks.

Basket strainer perforations differ in diameters and hence the straining capability:

• 1/32”
• ½”
• 3/8”
• 1/8”
• 3/16”
• 5/32”
• 3/64”

The distinguishing aspect of the basket mesh is the lining it bears.

Fitting it over the strainer basket perforations enhances the filtration capability.

Basket Strainer Filter Element Perforations

4. Diameter of the connection

It is yet another important factor that determines the size of basket strainers.

You must choose a basket strainer that is compatible with your basket strainer housing.

Basket Strainer Housing and Element

As a rule of thumb, the basket strainer should be compatible with that of the housing.

It is the only sure way to keep your fluid clean, free from unnecessary debris.

5. Working pressure and temperature

Basket strainers have rates of working pressure and temperature.

Normally, this varies depending on the type of material, perforations, flow rate, and design.

Remember, higher than rated pressure and temperature will cause damage or total breakdown

You must follow the right procedure to replace a basket strainer successfully.

That’s exactly what you will learn in this guide.

Following the right procedure helps you save money, and at times it takes quite a little effort.

Basket strainers have issues ranging from leakages, rust, or even get corroded.

Disassembling Basket Strainer

You should start by disconnecting or isolating the system.

Gently loosen the basket strainer.

You will find it quite easy to disconnect the flange tail end from the basket strainer using the right tool.

Proceed to loosen the ring up above, and at this point, one of your hands has to grasp the basket strainer.

This prevents it from spinning as you remove the washer and the basket strainer eventually.

The next point is to clean the bottom of the sink properly.

Check out the sinkhole for any foreign materials and clean them up as well but remember to use plastic material.

By all means, you should avoid metallic materials since such results in scratches.

Next, fit the new basket strainer.

Begin by taking off the ring, then the rubber washer and the paper washer respectively.

Apply the most appropriate binding material (glue) on the surface that makes contact with the sink.

Fix your new strainer in the hole in a proper way.

Ensure you apply enough pressure on it so that it moves to the correct depth and attaches firmly.

If there is an excess of the binding material, you will have to pull it out to ensure none remains on the surface.

It is now time for you to revisit the area under the sink.

You will fit the rubber gasket first, followed by the paper washer, and lastly the nut.

Eliminate the excesses of the binding material ensuring none remains.

Tie the system by revolving it in circles.

The next thing is to tighten the nuts but ensure you firmly hold the basket strainer when doing that.

Take off the slip joint and then insert your old tailpiece reinforcing it using a nut.

You will have to give it snug to ensure the stability of the system.

Proceed to fit the washer and the trapper and ensure everything fits tight.

It is now time for you to give the system a test run.

Working of a Basket Strainer

Fix the stopper and turn on the water to see the performance.

In case you notice some issues, try and check out the leaks.

If you don’t see any leakages, it implies you have done things the right way.

The target from the start is to install a flawless system, and when there are no leaks, it means you are successful.

If you want to run your systems without possible downtimes, you can choose automatic basket strainers over manual basket strainers.

Automatic basket strainers feature a backwashing technology, giving them a self-cleaning capability.

Most of these filters are reliable and dependable.

Besides, you can reduce the operating costs.

The constant shutdowns usually turn off most of the people, but with the automatic device, everything happens quite smoothly.

Here is a simple video showing how automatic basket strainers:

The working principle of automatic basket strainers is simple and straightforward.

Let’s have a look:

• The movement of the unfiltered media is of an elaborate nature. It gets in through the strainer’s inlet straight into the lower chamber. This chamber slows down the unfiltered fluid eventually straining it and collecting the settled debris.
• The fluid takes an upward trajectory eventually through the straining element (wedge). Only debris smaller than the wedge wire slot manages to move past the straining element.
• The system has a well-proportioned flow path, and it is here that the clean fluid makes its way into the strainer outlet.
• After some time, when the strainer gets clogged backwashing process begins. The process gets sparked either automatically or manually. The differential pressure between the atmosphere and the line pressure is what initiates the backwashing process.
• The system has a tubular backwash assembly usually connected through piping to the atmosphere. It rotates gently with the internal straining element, and at this point, they act in close contact. Quite a small portion of the screen gets isolated facilitating uninterrupted operation in the course of the backwashing process.

Self-Cleaning Filter

• Pressure differential eventually results in a huge reverse flow across the screen. The flow moves straight into the tubular backwash assembly where a port shoe performs a very important role. It acts the optimization role enabling process effectiveness.
• The purpose of the full port backwash manifold is to collect the debris. The uninterrupted flow is the most amazing bit about the entire process.

A differential pressure switch, an actuated valve, and an electrical panel are elements that control the “auto-clean” operation.

So, what’s so unique about the manual basket strainer?

Manual strainers operate using a rigid scraper bar and a single-hand wheel rotating screen which facilitate the elimination of solids.

Upon the rotation of the hand-wheel, the solids get a push from the screen’s surface area.

You should open the valve on the sump flush connection as the initial step.

Manual Basket Strainer

From there, proceed to rotate the hand-wheel and this you should do several times.

The truth is, the working principle of manual basket strainer and automatic basket strainer is virtually the same.

However, the automatic basket strainers have additional functionality – the ability to clean itself when clogged.

That is not the case for manual basket strainers.

Industry strainer baskets require proper cleaning after use and when they get clogged.

Therefore, you must adopt best practices to ensure the basket strainer remains clean and effective.

Normally, the cleaning process or detergents will depend on the nature of the applications.

That is, it will depend on the type of fluid passing through the strainer basket.

Basket Strainer – Photo Courtesy: Bellbrooktimes

Take, for example, Alconox is one of the best powder detergents you can go for when cleaning basket strainers.

Note: Before you go for any cleaning detergent, you need to know the type of basket strainer material.

It will ensure you don’t choose a cleaning detergent that reacts or affects your duplex strainer.

Besides, cleaning basket strainers does not end at choosing the best detergents.

You must choose the right tools and equipment.

Choose accessories that will not leave scratches on the surface of the basket strainer.

Furthermore, you will need safety accessories such as heat-resistant gloves, overalls, safety boots, etc.

For oil fluids, you can use warm water alongside your detergent to clean the basket strainer.

Pour the mixture in the segment that requires cleaning and using the tough brush start the cleanup exercise.

If some powder remains on the basket, add some water and shake it to remove the remaining powder.

Ensure you rinse the strainer basket thoroughly.

And in case of any carbon build-up, you can use a plastic scraper.

At any time, always remember to review the basket strainer manufacturer manual to know what they recommend for cleaning.

In fact, it is the easiest way to choose suitable detergent and cleaning equipment.

Are looking for a high-quality basket strainer?

Well here are a few basket strainer manufacturers to consider:

1) Eaton

This leading manufacturer adheres to the highest production standards in the development of basket strainers.

Eaton

Over the years, it has managed to woo clients from around the globe.

It puts the interests of customers at the forefront and looks forward to making more improvements in service delivery.

2) Keckley

This company has risen through the ranks quite fast, and market observers attribute that to the production of top-quality strainers.

It believes in serving a large number of customers with reliable and innovative solutions.

3) Jamison Products

Jamison Products prides itself in having long-term experience in the manufacture of top-notch basket strainers.

Despite the high competition levels in the market, it still manages to uphold its relevance.

Delivering top quality is a great priority for it.

4) Titan

This manufacturer has been developing high-end basket strainers since its establishment and serves customers from around the globe.

TITAN

The company has always been a listening partner giving customers a voice.

You can check online to see its latest products.

5) Hayward

This company embraces teamwork in undertaking its business and production activities.

Hayward has managed to achieve great progress over the years.

Hayward

It has managed to make it to the top 10 best basket strainer manufacturers around the world.

Check out the company’s website to see what it has in store currently.

6) Mueller

It is a leading basket strainer manufacturer, and so far it has won a significant number of customers to its side.

Mueller

It adheres to the highest standards when it comes to the manufacture of its basket strainers.

It knows that high-quality goods and services mean happy customers.

7) Kraissl

This business guru employs top-notch materials in coming up with reliable basket strainers.

It prides itself in capturing a wide customer base that believes in the quality and value of its leading products.

KRAISSL

It looks forward to expanding its business operations in the near future.

8) Filson Filters

Filson is one of the best performers when it comes to developing the leading basket strainers.

The company prides itself in its capabilities to develop high-quality filtration systems, with a complete line of basket strainers.

Filson Filters

The good thing about such products lies in the fact that they are dimensionally and functionally interchangeable.

You will successfully interchange them with the various industrial OEM filter manufacturers.

Basket strainers play an important role in many applications.

As stated earlier, to ensure your system runs smoothly and efficiently, you need a duplex basket strainer.

Some of the main industries include:

1. Food Processing

The various plants that produce juice from around the globe need to offer clients top-quality products.

Such plants go for the most appropriate strainers.

The suitability of the strainer gets measured using the mesh size since that determines the filtration standards.

Food production applications employ multiple strainers.

The flow first and foremost bypasses the wide mesh before proceeding to the finer one.

That ensures optimum functionality of the finer mesh since clogging is a major issue.

The serial running of the strainers helps attain a pure end result, and that is the goal of the manufacturers.

The final straining should deliver the top quality and fine product.

2. Power generation

This industry requires efficient and effective filtration mechanisms to filter water.

The down-streaming processes are rather vigorous in nature and thus great need to protect the equipment in use.

Process strainers and industrial basket strainers help a great deal in protecting the equipment.

3. Pharmaceuticals

The FDA requirements only accommodate pure medicines.

However, a number of factors come into play in the whole matter at times.

One of those happens to be the route of administration.

The general requirement is that all injectables stay free of any kind of particulate matter.

Experts advocate for the removal of particulate matter since that results in the formation of clots.

Asides from that, they also result in great distress among patients.

The right strainers ensure effective and efficient removal of particulate matter.

In other medical uses, strainers help a great deal by eliminating the need to rely on jugs.

The right strainers help generate pure liquids for use by patients.

4.Military field

Navy ships happen to be one of the leading customers for the wide range of basket strainers.

It targets seeing everything run on smoothly and the strainers facilitate that.

Filtration and straining happen to be crucial when to the cooling excise of the engine oil.

It is also important in cooling the weapon systems.

5. Irrigation

Large farms require the industrial strainers in the exercise of turning on the hose to water plants.

Incoming water gets pulled strongly from the rocks, sand, and other foreign particles.

This is a remarkable way to help ensure that such particles don’t damage sensitive pump sections.

The impressive aspect is that the large farms successfully draw water from the various catchment basin and on-site ponds.

Such farms require huge volumes of water to meet up the irrigation needs.

7. Automotive Fluid Production

Trucks and cars require a wide array of fluids in order to function properly.

All these fluids should be free of any sort of contaminants since contaminants end up destroying the sensitive parts.

Strainers in good working condition ensure effective elimination of contaminants.

As you can see, this comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about basket strainers.

So, before you buy any basket strainer, ensure you understand every mentioned in this guide.

More importantly, identify a trusted and reliable manufacturer.

It is the only sure way of optimizing all operations in your piping systems.

In case you have questions on basket strainers, don’t hesitate to contact us.