Strainers

Match the mesh size to the downstream equipment being protected: 20–40 mesh (800–400 μm opening) for pump suction protection - prevents large particles from damaging impellers; 80–100 mesh (150–180 μm) for control valve and meter protection - the most common cause of premature control valve failure is inadequate upstream filtration; 150–200 mesh (75–105 μm) for precision flow meters, analyser sample lines, and pH probes. Always size the strainer body for a pressure drop across the clean screen of less than 0.15 bar to avoid cavitation in pump suction applications.

Y-strainers are compact with the screen at a 45° angle to the flow - low face-to-face length, suitable for continuous service with infrequent cleaning via a blow-off plug. Best for lines where the strainer rarely needs cleaning. Basket strainers have a larger, vertically-mounted screen basket with much higher dirt-holding capacity and lower pressure drop - preferred where frequent cleaning is needed or where high particle loading is expected. Duplex basket strainers (twin baskets with a diverter valve) allow cleaning of one basket while the other remains in service - mandatory for continuous-process lines that cannot be shut down.

Yes - Y-strainers in Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel 316 body with SS316 perforated screen are standard for steam service. Install with the blow-off leg pointing downward (not upward) so condensate and solids collect by gravity. Clean the strainer screen at system commissioning and after any modifications to the pipework - new steam systems release significant mill scale and weld debris in the first weeks of operation. For steam above 300°C, specify carbon steel WCB body with graphite gaskets.

For mild to moderately corrosive chemicals: Stainless Steel 316 body with SS316 mesh or perforated screen. For oxidising acids (sulphuric, nitric, phosphoric): SS316L or Hastelloy C-276 body with matching screen. For caustic (NaOH, KOH) service: SS316 or Monel 400. For hydrofluoric acid or ultra-high-purity semiconductor service: PVDF body with PTFE screen - fully metal-free wetted parts. Always specify body and screen material separately - the screen is often the first component to corrode.