The Importance of Hydraulic Filters: Keeping Your System Clean and Efficient

Hydraulic systems are built for performance, but they’re also sensitive pieces of equipment. Contamination is one of the leading causes of hydraulic failure, and often it comes down to a small but mighty component: the hydraulic filter. At Neilson Hydraulics, we understand just how critical filtration is to system health. That’s why we supply high-quality filters from trusted names like Eaton and Hengst.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at why filters matter, the different types you might need, and the benefits of choosing reliable brands. If you’re an engineer or technician working with hydraulics, this one’s for you.

Why Filters Matter in a Hydraulic System

Hydraulic filters do the vital job of removing contaminants such as metal particles, rubber fragments, dust, and dirt from the fluid. These contaminants can enter the system during operation, servicing, or even from the environment, and if they’re not properly filtered out, they can cause:

Premature wear of pumps, valves, and actuators
Increased system downtime due to maintenance or failures
Reduced efficiency and performance
Complete system failure in severe cases

Using the right filter helps maintain system performance, reduce repair costs, and extend the lifespan of key components. It’s a simple investment with major returns.

Filter Options at Neilson Hydraulics

At Neilson Hydraulics, we stock and supply filters from Eaton and Hengst – two leading brands known for their innovation, reliability, and engineering quality. Here’s a closer look at what they offer:

Eaton Filters

Eaton is a global name in hydraulic components, and their filter range is no exception. Their filtration solutions cover:

Suction Filters – Mounted in the reservoir to prevent pump damage from large particles
Pressure Filters – High-efficiency filtration at key points in the system under pressure
Return Line Filters – Cleaning fluid as it returns to the tank to maintain system cleanliness
Offline and Duplex Filters – For systems needing continuous operation without shutdowns

Eaton’s filters are engineered for performance in demanding environments, with a range of micron ratings and pressure options to suit different needs. Their modular design options also make integration easier for OEMs and maintenance engineers.

Hengst Filters

Hengst is known for its precision German engineering and focus on sustainable, efficient filtration. Hengst’s hydraulic filter range includes:

Inline Filters for mobile and stationary hydraulic systems
Tank-mounted Return Filters designed for easy serviceability
Spin-on Filters for compact filtration with quick-change functionality
Filter Elements and Cartridges available in a range of materials and micron ratings

Hengst filters are a popular choice in industries such as agriculture, construction, and manufacturing, offering long service life and exceptional particle retention. Their innovation in filter media and housing design makes them a go-to for high-performance systems.

Choosing the Right Filter

When specifying a hydraulic filter, there are a few key things to consider:

Micron rating – Choose the right level of filtration for your system’s sensitivity
Flow rate – Make sure the filter can handle your system’s demands
Operating pressure – Filters must be rated for your system’s pressure
Compatibility – Always select filters that match the fluid and system layout

Our technical team at Neilson Hydraulics is always on hand to help specify the right filter for your application, whether it’s a new build or a replacement during servicing.

Conclusion

Hydraulic filters might not be the biggest component in your system, but they’re one of the most important when it comes to keeping everything running smoothly. By using high-quality filters from brands like Eaton and Hengst, you’re protecting your investment, improving performance, and reducing downtime.

If you're looking to source reliable filters or need help selecting the right ones, speak to the team at Neilson Hydraulics. We supply filters from stock and can support you with expert advice on all things hydraulic.

Need a filter fast? Contact us today for next-day delivery on many Eaton and Hengst products.