Hydraulic pressure filters for diesel engines: Protection on which the resource depends

A modern diesel engine is a high—tech unit, the precision of manufacturing parts of which is calculated in microns. Fuel equipment, especially battery injection systems, is its most demanding and expensive system. Its smooth operation directly depends on the quality of diesel fuel, and here the key element comes to the fore — the hydraulic pressure filter. This is not just a "consumable", but a high-tech component on which the power, efficiency and durability of the entire power unit depend.

Role and place in the nutrition system

Unlike coarse filters (pre-filters), which trap large particles and water, a fine pressure filter is installed in the high-pressure line after the fuel pump. Its task is the final, fine filtration of fuel before it is fed into the injectors.

The pressure in modern fuel systems can reach 2500 bar and above. Under such conditions, any abrasive particle of 5-10 microns in size, even invisible to the eye, can cause catastrophic damage. It acts as a miniature projectile, causing scuffing on the precision pump vapors, calibrated nozzle and spray channels. The consequences are pressure loss, improper spraying, interruptions in operation, increased fuel consumption and, ultimately, failure of components, the repair of which is comparable to the cost of an engine overhaul.

Design and operating principle

The hydraulic pressure filter is designed to operate in extreme conditions.

1. Body. It is made of durable metal (usually steel or aluminum alloy), capable of withstanding constant high pressures and water impacts.

2. The filter element. This is the heart of the device. Modern elements are made of special synthetic materials (fiberglass, cellulose compositions with impregnation) with a multilayer structure. They ensure the fineness of screening at the level of 98-99% for particles of 3-4 microns in size.

3. Valves. The standard design includes:

   • Bypass valve: It is triggered in case of critical contamination of the filter or when starting the engine with cold fuel. It allows the fuel to bypass the filter element, preventing the pump from "starving", but at the cost of temporary lack of filtration.

   • Check valve: Located at the inlet and prevents fuel from draining from the high-pressure line after the engine stops. This ensures a quick and easy follow-up.

The principle of operation is simple: fuel pumped by a high-pressure pump is supplied under high pressure