Filtrec Hydraulic Filters: A Core Part of Flowfit’s Hydraulic Filtration Expertise
Hydraulic filtration might not be the first thing you think about when looking at a hydraulic system, but it plays a major part in keeping hydraulic oil clean, protecting components and helping machinery operate reliably.
At Flowfit, hydraulic filtration has been a core part of what we do for decades. We have supplied Filtrec hydraulic filters for over 30 years, building a long and successful relationship with an internationally recognised filtration specialist.
That long-standing experience is backed by extensive filtration product knowledge within our sales team, a substantial UK stock holding and access to European distribution hubs. From replacement filter elements and level indicators to suction, return and high-pressure filters, Flowfit can help with filtration requirements across mobile, industrial, agricultural, construction and OEM hydraulic systems.
Quick answer
Flowfit has supplied Filtrec filtration products for over 30 years. Our filtration range covers pressure, return and suction filters, replacement filter elements, filter condition monitoring, fluid level and condition monitoring, tank and reservoir accessories, last chance filters and filtration units. If you are unsure which product you need, our experienced sales team can help you identify a suitable solution.
- 1) Why does hydraulic filtration matter?
- 2) Flowfit and Filtrec: over 30 years of filtration experience
- 3) Where does filtration sit within a hydraulic system?
- 4) What Filtrec hydraulic filtration products are available?
- 5) Where are hydraulic filters used?
- 6) How do I choose the correct hydraulic filter?
- 7) Filtrec replacement hydraulic filter elements
- 8) Hydraulic filtration FAQs
- 9) Filtrec hydraulic filtration from Flowfit
1. Why Does Hydraulic Filtration Matter?
Hydraulic oil does much more than simply move around a system. It transfers power, lubricates moving parts and helps hydraulic components operate correctly.
Contamination can find its way into hydraulic oil in several ways. Dirt can enter during maintenance, particles can be introduced when oil is added, and small amounts of contamination can also be created naturally as components wear during operation.
If those particles continue circulating around the system, they can contribute to wear in pumps, control valves, motors, cylinders and other hydraulic components. Effective hydraulic filtration helps remove contamination from the oil before it creates unnecessary problems.
Protect hydraulic components
Filtration helps reduce the amount of damaging contamination reaching pumps, valves, motors, cylinders and other hydraulic components.
Improve system reliability
Keeping hydraulic oil cleaner can help reduce premature component wear and support reliable system operation.
Reduce avoidable downtime
Effective contamination control forms an important part of preventative hydraulic maintenance.
Keep hydraulic oil cleaner
Hydraulic filters capture particles as oil moves through the system, helping prevent them from continually circulating around the circuit.
Filtration needs to match the hydraulic system
Simply fitting a hydraulic filter is not enough. The filter needs to suit its position within the hydraulic circuit and be correctly sized for pressure, flow rate, filtration level and operating conditions.
2. Flowfit and Filtrec: Over 30 Years of Hydraulic Filtration Experience
Filtrec is an internationally recognised filtration specialist, and Flowfit has proudly supplied Filtrec filters for over 30 years.
That long and successful relationship has allowed us to build a wealth of filtration product knowledge within our sales team. Whether you are replacing an existing hydraulic filter, looking for a replacement element or specifying filtration for a new system, our team can help you work through the options.
We also have access to a number of European distribution hubs, helping us support customers with quick product availability when required. Alongside this, Flowfit continues to invest in our already substantial UK stock holding and expand the range of Filtrec products available to our customers.
Filtrec forms an important part of our wider filtration range. From level indicators and suction filtration to return line filters, spin-on filters, pressure filters and high-pressure hydraulic filters, we can support a wide variety of hydraulic filtration requirements.
Over 30 years supplying Filtrec
For more than 30 years, Flowfit has combined Filtrec filtration products with experienced product knowledge, UK stock and access to European supply hubs to support customers with hydraulic filtration requirements.
3. Where Does Filtration Sit Within a Hydraulic System?
A hydraulic filter can be fitted in several different places within a circuit, and each position serves a slightly different purpose.
Three of the most common positions are suction, pressure and return filtration. Some hydraulic systems may use more than one filtration point depending on the components being protected and the level of oil cleanliness required.
Suction filtration
A suction filter or strainer sits between the hydraulic reservoir and the pump. It is mainly used to help stop larger particles from reaching the pump inlet.
Pressure filtration
A pressure filter is fitted after the hydraulic pump, where it removes contamination from pressurised oil before it reaches downstream components.
Return filtration
A return line filter cleans hydraulic oil as it travels back towards the reservoir, helping prevent contamination from being carried around the system again.
Multiple filtration points
Some systems use a combination of suction, pressure and return filtration to protect different areas of the hydraulic circuit.
| Filter position | What it does | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Suction | Helps stop larger contaminants reaching the hydraulic pump. | Restriction needs to be controlled so the pump receives sufficient oil. |
| Pressure | Filters pressurised oil before it reaches downstream hydraulic components. | The filter housing must be suitable for the system pressure. |
| Return | Filters hydraulic oil before it returns to the reservoir. | The filter must be able to handle the expected return flow. |
The position of the filter matters
A pressure filter and a return line filter both remove contamination, but they operate under very different conditions. Always make sure the filter is designed for the part of the hydraulic circuit where it will be installed.
4. What Filtrec Hydraulic Filtration Products Are Available?
Filtrec offers much more than standard hydraulic filter housings and replacement elements. Through Flowfit, customers can access filtration products covering the main areas of a hydraulic system, from pressure and return filtration through to fluid monitoring, tank accessories and complete filtration units.
Pressure Filters
Hydraulic pressure filters are installed on the pressurised side of the hydraulic system, helping remove contamination before the oil reaches downstream components such as valves and motors.
Return Line Filters
Hydraulic return line filters clean the oil as it travels back towards the reservoir, capturing contamination before the hydraulic fluid is circulated through the system again.
Suction Filters
Hydraulic suction filters and strainers are fitted between the reservoir and hydraulic pump, helping prevent larger contaminants from reaching the pump inlet.
Last Chance Filters
Last chance filters provide an additional point of filtration close to a component or particular part of the hydraulic circuit where extra contamination protection is required.
Fluid Level & Condition Monitoring
Keeping an eye on hydraulic fluid is another important part of system maintenance. This range includes level indicators, electromagnetic level indicators and fluid monitoring products for checking fluid level and condition.
Filter Condition Monitoring
Filter condition monitoring helps indicate when a hydraulic filter is becoming restricted or requires attention. The range includes clogging indicators and pressure transmitters for monitoring filter condition.
Tank & Reservoir Accessories
Hydraulic reservoirs also need protection from contamination entering from the surrounding environment. The range includes desiccant breathers, air breathers and filler breathers for hydraulic tanks and reservoirs.
Filtration Units
Hydraulic filtration units provide additional options for controlling oil cleanliness and supporting hydraulic system maintenance outside the main pressure, return and suction filter positions.
Filtrec Filtration in a Hydraulic Build
Filtration products often work together as part of the complete hydraulic system rather than as isolated components. These examples show Filtrec return line filtration, fluid level indication and filler breather components incorporated into hydraulic builds.
Filtrec Replacement Filter Elements
The filter housing is only part of the filtration system. The hydraulic filter element inside the housing captures contamination as the hydraulic oil passes through it and will eventually need to be replaced as part of routine maintenance.
Flowfit can help customers identify Filtrec replacement filter elements for existing filtration systems. If you have the manufacturer name and filter or element reference, this is often the best place to start when looking for a replacement.
The wider Filtrec range also includes different filter configurations, including in-line and spin-on filtration, depending on the hydraulic system and application.
Not sure which Filtrec filtration product you need?
Whether you need a complete hydraulic filter, replacement element, clogging indicator, level indicator or reservoir accessory, speak to Flowfit with the information you have. Our filtration experience can help narrow down the right product for the application.
You can also browse the complete Flowfit hydraulic filtration range to explore all filtration categories.
5. Where Are Hydraulic Filters Used?
Hydraulic filtration is used across almost every sector that relies on hydraulic power. The exact filtration arrangement will depend on the machine, working environment, operating conditions and components within the system.
Mobile hydraulics
Mobile hydraulic equipment often works in challenging environments where keeping dirt and contamination under control is particularly important.
Agricultural machinery
Tractors, implements and agricultural machinery rely on hydraulic filtration to help protect pumps, valves, cylinders and other hydraulic equipment.
Construction equipment
Excavators, loaders and other construction machinery can operate in dusty and dirty environments, making effective hydraulic filtration an important part of system maintenance.
Industrial machinery
Hydraulic power units, production machinery and other industrial equipment can use pressure, return and other filtration arrangements to maintain oil cleanliness.
OEM machinery
Hydraulic filtration can be specified as part of a complete system when designing and manufacturing new machinery and equipment.
Maintenance and repair
Replacement hydraulic filters and filter elements are a routine part of servicing hydraulic machinery and keeping existing equipment running.
6. How Do I Choose the Correct Hydraulic Filter?
Choosing a hydraulic filter is not simply a case of matching the thread or finding one that looks the same as the filter being replaced.
Pressure, hydraulic flow, filtration level, filter position, connection size and the hydraulic fluid itself can all affect which filter is suitable.
Choosing a pressure or return line filter?
If you already know where the filter will sit within the hydraulic circuit, our more detailed guides explain the selection process for high-pressure hydraulic filters and hydraulic return line filters.
Filter position
First establish whether the filter will be used on the pressure, return, suction or another part of the hydraulic circuit.
Working pressure
Check the maximum pressure the filter housing may experience while the hydraulic system is operating.
Hydraulic flow rate
The filter must be able to handle the amount of hydraulic oil passing through that part of the circuit.
Filtration level
The required micron rating and filtration performance will depend on the components being protected and the required oil cleanliness.
Connections
Port sizes, thread types and the available installation space all need to be checked before ordering.
Filter media and fluid
The filter media and seal materials need to be suitable for the hydraulic fluid being used in the system.
| Useful information | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Existing filter reference | Often gives us the best starting point when looking for a replacement. |
| Filter location | Helps establish whether a pressure, return, suction or other filter type is required. |
| Maximum working pressure | Helps identify a filter housing with the correct pressure rating. |
| Maximum hydraulic flow | Helps make sure the filter can handle the required oil flow. |
| Required micron rating | Helps identify the required level of filtration. |
| Port size and thread | Allows the connections to be matched to the hydraulic system. |
| Hydraulic fluid | Helps confirm filter media and seal compatibility. |
Not sure where to start?
Give us whatever information you have. An existing part number, photograph, machine model or basic hydraulic specification can often be enough for our sales team to start narrowing down the correct filter.
7. Filtrec Replacement Hydraulic Filter Elements
The filter housing is only part of a hydraulic filtration system. Inside the housing, the hydraulic filter element captures contamination as the oil passes through.
Over time, contamination builds up within the element and it will eventually need to be serviced or replaced. How often this happens depends on the machinery, operating conditions, contamination levels, filter capacity and maintenance schedule.
When replacing an existing element, the reference printed on the old filter is often the best place to start. Flowfit's filtration knowledge and access to the Filtrec range can help make identifying the correct replacement much easier.
Looking for a Replacement Hydraulic Filter Element?
Flowfit's Hydraulic Filter Finder is designed specifically to help you identify replacement hydraulic filter elements using the details from your existing element.
Replacing an existing hydraulic filter element?
Make a note of the manufacturer and part number before disposing of the old element. A clear photograph of the label can also be useful when speaking to the Flowfit sales team.
If you have the existing element details, use our Hydraulic Filter Finder to search for a suitable replacement filter element.
8. Hydraulic Filtration FAQs
What does a hydraulic filter do?
A hydraulic filter captures contamination carried in hydraulic oil, helping stop those particles from continually circulating through the hydraulic system.
What is the difference between a pressure filter and a return filter?
A pressure filter is installed on the pressurised side of the hydraulic system, usually after the pump. A return filter cleans the oil as it travels back towards the reservoir. Because they operate in different areas of the circuit, their housings are designed for different pressure conditions.
What is a hydraulic suction filter?
A hydraulic suction filter or strainer is fitted between the reservoir and the hydraulic pump. It helps prevent larger particles from entering the pump.
What does filter condition monitoring do?
Filter condition monitoring can help show when restriction across a hydraulic filter is increasing. Products such as clogging indicators and pressure transmitters can be used to monitor filter condition and support maintenance planning.
What products can be used to monitor hydraulic fluid level?
Flowfit's fluid level and condition monitoring range includes level indicators, electromagnetic level indicators and fluid monitoring products for hydraulic systems.
What hydraulic tank and reservoir accessories are available?
The range includes products such as desiccant breathers, air breathers and filler breathers, helping support hydraulic reservoir maintenance and contamination control.
Do all hydraulic systems use the same micron filter?
No. The correct filtration level depends on the hydraulic components being protected, the operating conditions and the cleanliness requirements of the system.
Can I choose a hydraulic filter from the port size alone?
No. Port size is only one part of the specification. Pressure rating, hydraulic flow, filtration performance, filter media, fluid compatibility and installation requirements should all be considered.
How do I identify a replacement hydraulic filter element?
Start with the manufacturer and part number from the existing element. If that information is not available, photographs, dimensions, machine details and information about the hydraulic system can also help. If you have the existing element reference, you can also use Flowfit's Hydraulic Filter Finder to search for a suitable replacement filter element.
What is the Flowfit Hydraulic Filter Finder used for?
Flowfit's Hydraulic Filter Finder is designed to help customers search for replacement hydraulic filter elements. It is not intended for selecting complete filter housings or specifying a new filtration system.
What if I do not know which Filtrec filter I need?
Contact Flowfit with whatever information you have. You do not need to work out the exact Filtrec part number yourself before speaking to us. Our sales team has extensive filtration product knowledge and can help you identify suitable options.
How long has Flowfit supplied Filtrec filters?
Flowfit has supplied Filtrec filtration products for over 30 years. During that time, we have built extensive filtration knowledge within our sales team, invested in our UK stock holding and maintained access to European distribution hubs to support customer requirements.
9. Filtrec Hydraulic Filtration from Flowfit
Hydraulic filtration is a core part of what Flowfit does. Having supplied Filtrec filtration products for over 30 years, we combine internationally recognised filtration products with extensive product knowledge and practical support from our experienced sales team.
Flowfit can support requirements across pressure filtration, return filtration, suction filtration, replacement filter elements, last chance filtration, filter condition monitoring, fluid level and condition monitoring, tank and reservoir accessories and filtration units.
With a substantial UK stock holding, access to European distribution hubs and continued investment in our Filtrec range, we are well placed to support both routine replacement requirements and new hydraulic system projects.
Whether you are servicing existing machinery, replacing a filter element or choosing filtration for a new hydraulic system, talk to Flowfit and let our filtration experience help you find the right solution.
Have a Hydraulic Filtration Requirement? Talk to Flowfit.
Browse our Filtrec and hydraulic filtration ranges, use our Hydraulic Filter Finder if you need to identify a replacement filter element, or speak to the Flowfit team for further support.
Tip: If you are replacing an existing hydraulic filter element, take a note or photograph of the manufacturer and part number before contacting us or using the Hydraulic Filter Finder.
The total one-stop supplier for hydraulic components & systems
Get in touch
Parys Road
Ludlow
Shropshire
SY8 1XY
