Oil filters
Buy and replace oil filters for engines and industrial equipment
Our oil filters reliably protect the oil circuit from dirt particles, metal abrasion, soot particles, and other contaminants. This helps ensure a long service life for your machinery. You can buy high-quality oil filters here. In addition to engine oil filters, we offer models for construction equipment, hydraulic systems, compressors and many other applications.
In addition to the right oil filter, you’ll find numerous other filters in the Fuel Filters, Coolant filter, water filters and numerous replacement parts and accessories.
Simply enter the original part number into the search function to quickly find the right oil filter or one of the many perfectly compatible alternatives from various manufacturers for your specific application.
What is an oil filter and how does it work?
The oil filter is used when combustion produces contaminant particles. These particles pose a risk to the engine because they have an abrasive effect. Increased wear also creates a risk of damage, which can lead to a loss of performance or even machine failure.
With the right oil filtration from fluid technology, your machines are reliably protected from these contaminants. In addition to dirt particles, soot and metal particles, abrasion, and other contaminants are also removed from the lubricating oil. As a result, engine oil, hydraulic oil, and other operating fluids remain effective longer, and the friction of moving parts caused by clean oil continues to function reliably.
Where is the oil filter located?
The installation location of an oil filter depends on the specific engine or hydraulic system. It is positioned so that the oil is filtered of contaminants before it reaches sensitive components, preventing deposits from forming in the first place.
In internal combustion engines, the oil filter is usually located directly on the engine block and is thus integrated into the oil circuit. In hydraulic systems, oil filters can be installed in various positions as suction filters, pressure filters, or return filters. The check valve prevents oil from flowing back out of the filter when the system is shut down.
What does an oil filter filter out?
In oil filtration, contaminants such as soot are filtered out. Clean oil ensures that your machines and engines operate reliably and have a long service life. It also helps prevent costly consequential damage.
How finely does an oil filter work?
Oil filters can filter both coarsely and very finely. The filter fineness is often specified in microns. The required filter fineness is determined by the intended application and is achieved through various designs and configurations of oil filters.
Subtleties of Oil Filtration
Oil filters can be divided into two main groups. A distinction is made between main-flow filters (full-flow oil filters) and bypass filters (bypass oil filters) . These differ in their function and filter fineness. These are the most important differences:
Main-Flow Oil Filtration
The main-flow oil filter can reliably remove harmful particles from automotive engines, industrial engines, and compressors. When used correctly, its performance is sufficient to protect the system and its components from unacceptable contaminants. An oil pump conveys the oil from a reservoir or the oil pan to the components or to the lubrication and cooling points. An oil cooler can cool the heated oil. The top priority here is ensuring the system’s oil supply.
A bypass valve ensures that oil is transported even when it cannot be pumped through the filter media due to excessive differential pressure (usually caused by high oil viscosity in cold conditions). However, an open bypass valve (and thus a flow of unfiltered oil) usually cannot be monitored. Therefore, it is important to replace the oil filter according to the specified maintenance intervals.
Bypass oil filtration
The main-stream oil filter usually does not capture the smallest particles. Over time, however, they can cause wear similar to that caused by large particles that are retained by the main-stream filter. Bore Polishing is a dreaded effect in this context. Tiny particles act like polishing paste and polish cylinder surfaces and bearing seats until no oil film can adhere to them anymore.
To prevent this, ultrafine particles are removed from the oil circuit using an additional bypass oil filter. In this process, a small amount of oil is continuously diverted from the main flow and pumped through an additional, finer filter. Bypass oil filters also require regular maintenance and must be replaced according to their service life. Another very effective way to filter oil in a bypass stream is to use a centrifuge. A rotor is accelerated to up to 10,000 revolutions per minute. Centrifugal forces remove the finest particles from the oil. These accumulate in what is known as a filter cake on the rotor wall, which can be removed from the centrifuge. Centrifuges are usually powered solely by oil pressure and do not require a separate drive.
Hydraulics
In addition, hydraulic systems include suction filters, pressure filters, return filters, and vent filters, as well as strainers. Pressure filters typically require high pressure, so pressure-resistant housings are used. The oil filter element inside the housing is replaceable and, depending on the application, is designed to withstand high differential pressures.
Are there different types of oil filters?
Oil filters come in numerous types and designs. This allows them to meet the varying requirements of engines, hydraulic systems, compressors, and industrial machinery. Oil filters differ, among other things, in terms of their filter fineness, flow rate, pressure resistance, and installation type. A precisely matched oil filter ensures that the oil circuit remains protected from contaminants, metal abrasion, and other particles.
Overview of Oil Filter Types
Different types of oil filters are used depending on the application. Some filters are designed for engines, while others are used specifically in hydraulic systems or industrial equipment. In hydraulic systems in particular, a distinction is made between functional protection filtration as a coarse filter for simple systems and wear protection filtration for fine filtration. This reduces wear.
The most common types of oil filters include:
- Main-flow oil filter
- Bypass oil filter
- Lifetime oil filter
- Suction filter
- Pressure filter
- Return filter
- Return-Suction Filter
- Inline Filter
- Police Filter
- Centrifuge
- Free-jet centrifuge
- High-pressure filter
- Medium-pressure filter
- Low-pressure filter
- Spin-on
- Strainer
What types of designs are there?
There are numerous designs (types of construction) for oil filters. In the past, screw-on cartridges were most commonly found in passenger cars and smaller industrial engines. However, for environmental reasons, many manufacturers are trying to switch to filter elements. The goal is to use metal-free oil filter elements.
In hydraulic filters, the filter inserts usually have metal end caps and a cylindrical shape because higher differential pressures are required here. Between the end caps is the pleated filter bellows to maximize the filter area. Depending on the design, the oil is directed through the filter medium from the inside out or from the outside in. Filter materials include cellulose, synthetic media, glass fibers, and wire mesh. Different material combinations and multi-layer filter media enable a range of filter finenesses, contaminant holding capacities, and differential pressure characteristics. The filter housing itself, into which the corresponding filter elements are inserted, is usually made of aluminum, ductile iron, or plastic. The goal is for these designs to generate little waste, which should also be easily recyclable.
In hydraulics, the most common design is the oil-change filter, or the spin-on filter. It is screwed directly onto the engine, transmission, system, or a filter flange and is characterized by its simple installation. Here, the filter housing and filter element form a single, integrated unit and are used only in low-pressure applications. At higher pressures, filter elements with high differential pressure stability are used, which are installed in filter housings.
What are oil filters used for?
Oil filters are used whenever oils are required in engines, machines, equipment, and systems. The oils are used for lubrication, cooling, power transmission, sealing, flushing, and corrosion protection. They are typically kept in constant flow and circulated. These hydraulic systems, which are equipped with an oil filter, include the following, among others:
Industrial Machinery
Oil filters play a key role in the filtration of lubricating and hydraulic oils. They effectively protect components from wear, reduce contamination in the oil circuit, and ensure a high level of operational reliability. Typical applications include:
- Injection molding machines
- Machine tools
- Tunnel boring machines
- Electrical discharge machines
- Compressors & presses
Commercial Vehicles
Oil filters are used as automotive parts in gasoline, diesel, Wankel, gas, multi-fuel, and power unit engines. Our product range includes filters for brand manufacturers such as Deutz, Caterpillar, and Iveco. Here are some typical commercial vehicles:
- Marine Engines
- Tractors / Agricultural Machinery
- Forestry Machinery
- Trucks
- Passenger Car Engines
- Construction Equipment
How to Maintain the Oil Filter?
Maintenance instructions are usually found in the operating manuals provided by machine and equipment manufacturers. The filter should be serviced after a specified operating capacity has been reached. This maintenance recommendation is typically determined based on the expected level of contamination and the available filter area. However, the resulting maintenance interval is only a guideline. More demanding operating conditions can also shorten the maintenance interval.
Engines or systems that cannot be shut down usually have a parallel filter. Fluid flows through this filter while the contaminated filter is being serviced. Regular filter maintenance is absolutely essential to ensure long-term operational reliability of the machines and systems.
Why are the right oil filters so important?
It is often impossible to tell by looking at a filter which technical variants are installed in it. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to use only approved filters for maintenance work. Filtration errors often go unnoticed and only become apparent after many hours of operation. By then, the damage and resulting costs are often significantly higher than the original purchase price of the correct oil filter. Many manufacturers also offer maintenance or service packages. These contain all the information needed to perform the filter change correctly .
How do I remove the oil filter?
Depending on the design, oil filters are removed by hand or with an oil filter wrench. For filters that are stuck, appropriate tools can make removal easier and prevent damage.
Especially in the case of gaskets and O-rings, these should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions. New gaskets on the oil drain plug ensure a secure seal and prevent oil leaks.
How can you tell if an oil filter is defective?
A clogged or defective oil filter can lead to increased wear, pressure losses, or a reduced oil supply. Possible signs include unusual noises, decreased performance, contaminated oil, or noticeable metal particles in the oil circuit.
How do I dispose of the old oil filter in an environmentally responsible manner?
Used oil filters contain oil residues and must therefore be disposed of properly. Disposal is carried out through appropriately marked collection points or take-back systems for oil-containing operating fluids.
Does installing an alternative product void the manufacturer’s warranty?
No, not automatically. The decisive factor is whether the oil filter used meets the technical requirements of the application. If the filter’s performance can be verified, for example, through manufacturer approvals or standardized test reports, high-quality alternative filters meeting original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards with corresponding warranty provisions may also be used.
In the event of damage, it must be verifiably determined whether any potential damage was actually caused by the filter used. Therefore, it is recommended to use only oil filters from established manufacturers that transparently document their filter performance. The decisive factor is therefore not the use of an alternative filter, but rather its verifiable quality and suitability for the specific system.
Tip: When selecting a filter, pay attention not only to the correct part number, but also to manufacturer quality, technical specifications, and documented performance data. This ensures that your oil filter is optimally suited to the oil circuit and operates reliably over the long term.
Can I change the oil filter myself?
Changing an oil filter yourself should be done in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and the specified replacement intervals. Regularly replacing your oil filters ensures longevity, protection, and reliability. It is especially important to follow the specified maintenance procedures for industrial equipment and commercial vehicles.
As filter specialists, we’re here to support you with our expertise and the largest selection of oil filters!
How often should you change an oil filter?
The frequency of oil filter changes depends on the type of oil filter used and its intended application. It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s specifications for filter replacement. It is recommended to replace the oil filter once a year. In the vast majority of cases, the filter element or spin-on filter is replaced with a new one. In some cases, screen filters can also be washed or cleaned and reused. To do this, the filter must be depressurized. In cases of heavy use, it is also recommended to replace the oil filter sooner than scheduled.
In addition, there is the service life of an oil filter. This depends on operating hours, oil quality, degree of contamination, operating conditions, and other information specified in the manufacturer’s guidelines. While some applications require an annual replacement, heavily loaded systems may require significantly shorter maintenance intervals.
Can you change the oil filter without draining the oil?
Whether an oil filter can be changed without draining the oil depends on the specific system and its installation orientation. In many cases, an oil change is performed at the same time as the filter change to ensure optimal oil quality.
Which brands offer oil filters?
Among the best-known oil filter manufacturers are MANN-FILTER and Hengst Filter.
In addition to our German brand partners, you’ll also find many other high-quality oil filters in our product range. These include Donaldson, Fil Filter, Sotras, UFI, Fleetguard, and other oil filter manufacturers.
However, the best oil filter is the one that best suits your specific application. With our part number cross-reference and reference products, you can quickly find the right filters for your needs.
MANN Oil Filters
Thanks to their outstanding performance, MANN-FILTER oil filters are among the most popular on the market. With 100% OEM quality, you don’t have to worry about the compatibility of MANN oil filters with your machines.
MANN oil filters provide optimal protection for engines and machinery during oil filtration. This is made possible by the highest-quality filters with outstanding material durability and contaminant holding capacity. Even under heavy-duty conditions, you can rely on the excellent quality of MANN oil filters.
- MANN oil filters stand for:
- Optimal protection thanks to OEM quality
- Maximum filtration capacity thanks to high-quality materials
- Corrosion-resistant and pressure-stable replaceable filter housings
- Long service life of the filter media
- Backflow preventer made of high-quality silicone li>
- Outstanding contaminant holding capacity
- Release aids for easy filter replacement
- Environmentally friendly filter elements
Hengst Oil Filters
Hengst filters are known for high performance and low wear. Thanks to their robustness, durability, and ease of maintenance, you can rely on Hengst oil filters!
To ensure you can rely on your machines and engines, you need oil filters that function reliably even under heavy loads. Hengst oil filters guarantee this thanks to their optimal filtration, long service life, and high flow rate.
Hengst oil filters stand for:
- Excellent contaminant-holding capacity
- Temperature and pressure resistance
- Precise fit
- Pulsation resistance
- Quick & easy installation
- Maximum flow rate and durability
- Environmentally friendly retrofit options
How much does an oil filter cost?
The cost of an oil filter depends on size, design, filter media, application, and manufacturer . A high-quality oil filter reduces wear and unplanned downtime. In the long run, this often offers the more economical solution and saves on expensive follow-up costs.
Is an expensive oil filter really worth it?
High-quality oil filters typically feature better filter media, a higher dirt-holding capacity, and longer service life. Higher upfront costs can thus quickly pay for themselves through longer maintenance intervals and better protection of equipment. Therefore, it’s advisable not to focus solely on price when choosing an engine oil filter.
Where can I buy oil filters and replacement parts?
At ELSÄSSER Filtertechnik, you’ll find a wide selection of compatible oil filters for engines, hydraulic systems, compressors, and more. Whether you’re looking for affordable or high-quality oil filters, we have the right product online.
Which oil filter is the right one?
We offer a search function based on the filter number. This allows you to quickly and easily find the right replacement filter or a perfect alternative from numerous manufacturers and purchase it directly in the store.
Our team of experts is happy to assist you personally via live chat, phone, or email in selecting the optimal oil filter.
Our experts will provide you with all the information you need about hydraulic filters.
Contact us by phone at 07032 / 96 04-0 or via our contact form.
