The Y Strainer – Purpose and Application

When deciding which type of strainer to use, it is important to understand the specific purposes and differences that make a strainer unique. Wye strainers are no exception. While this strainer option is more flexible when compared with basket strainers, the y strainers have a very limited installation. The y type strainer purpose is a specific one and that is exactly what makes them ideal for the applications where they can be used. This means that understanding the y strainer purpose and the applications that benefit from it are the best ways to get the results that you are looking for out of this strainer!

The Y Strainer Purpose

The y strainer purpose is to remove unwanted particles from steam, gas, or liquid using a straining element typically made of wire mesh. Using this mechanical process in pipelines helps to protect everything from pumps to steam traps. Y strainers are sometimes designed with “blow-off valves” to make the cleaning process easier.

Perhaps the largest benefit that comes from the y type strainer is its flexibility. It can be installed in a vertical or horizontal position, depending on the users’ preference. While this strainer type is already a cost-effective option, the size of y strainers can be reduced to save even more money. This also prevents using excess materials. Y strainers can be made of a variety of materials. The type of material you choose depends on the industry and application that is used. Any type of end that you might need is available as well. From socket to flanged, there is a y strainer out there with the end you need!

The ways in which y strainers can be customized are seemingly endless when compared with other types of strainers. However, the design of a y strainer must be appropriate for the application for this system to be successful. In order to get the right results, always be sure to know the application you are working with before buying a y strainer.

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Y Strainer Applications

The industries where y strainers are best used are those that need constant protection from debris. The most universally common use for a y strainer is in steam applications. Due to its shape, a y strainer has no trouble handling the high pressure that steam applications endure.  

Y strainers are often used in liquid applications. Sand and gravel are two very common types of debris that pose a big threat to liquid applications. When combined with water handling applications, y strainers aid in the protection of equipment that would be otherwise damaged or clogged by various unwanted particles.

Natural gas and air applications also benefit from being used with y strainers. Much like steam applications, natural gas and air environments have high pressure levels. These applications are also expected to put up with high temperatures, something that y strainers can easily endure.

Because of the variety of industries and applications where a y strainer can be used, the materials and customization of these strainers must be done on a case-by-case basis. For example, carbon steel does not do well in extremely high temperatures or pressures, so it would be best to find a y strainer made of chrome-moly steel for steam or natural gas applications. Keeping in mind specificities when it comes to applications and industries will help ensure that you get the most from a y strainer.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding y strainer applications or uses, feel free to contact us anytime at (855) 236-0467!

Need information on installation & maintenance? Read our y strainer installation & maintenance resource

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