How to clean a metal hydraulic filter

Removable hydraulic metal filters are generally considered washable filters. Access to the filter bowl and removal of the filter should be done in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, usually found in the hydraulic filter manual. Once removed, the filter can be cleaned, installed and reused. If a machine is used for industrial work where it is dirty and dusty, cleaning maintenance twice a year will help keep the hydraulic machine in top shape.

To clean a hydraulic metal filter, you will need a solvent tank cleaning system, one gallon of hydraulic fluid, a small brush, a small bucket, and a pair of rubber gloves that should be worn throughout the procedure. Place the filter in the solvent tank. Turn on the solvent pump and allow the solvent to flow through the nozzle.

To clean the filter, place it in the solvent and rinse it well. While rinsing, use the small brush to scrub away any dirt and debris. The solvent will dissolve dirt particles and dirty oil clogging the filter, so allow it to run freely through the entire filter media. After cleaning is complete, turn off the solvent feed. Shake the filter to remove excess solvent.

For one gallon of hydraulic fluid in the bucket, place the hydraulic filter inside the bucket and swish it in the hydraulic fluid for about ten minutes. This will remove any remaining solvent from the cleaning process. Reinsert the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions and the filter is ready to go. This process is very economical because it is not necessary to change the hydraulic filter as frequently.