Why Filtration Is Overlooked in OEM Hydraulic Projects | Hidroman
Why Filtration Is Overlooked in OEM Hydraulic Projects | Hidroman
Why is Filtration Overlooked in OEM Hydraulic Projects?
In OEM hydraulic projects, pumps, valves, and cylinders are chosen with great care, while filtration often takes a back seat. However, a significant portion of hydraulic system failures are directly or indirectly caused by inadequate filtration. But why is filtration so critical, but still overlooked?
In this article, we discuss why filtration is not taken seriously enough in OEM projects and its real consequences in the field from a technical perspective.
- Filtration Is an "Invisible" Component
Hydraulic filters are components that do not directly indicate the performance of the system, such as pumps or valves. Therefore, in the project phase:
Low visual impact
Performance output is indirect
The selling argument is weak
They are perceived as. As a result, filters are often selected at the minimum requirement level.
However, filtration is the life insurance of the system.
- Excessive Focus on Initial Investment Cost
Competitive pressure in OEM projects makes it imperative to reduce costs as much as possible. At this point:
Lower micron filters
Advanced filter housings with by-pass valves
Offline or return line filtration
It is considered an "unnecessary cost".
However, premature pump failures, valve lockouts and warranty costs caused by inadequate filtration far outweigh the initial investment savings.
- The Misconception that Hydraulic Oil "Comes Clean"
A common mistake in OEM projects is the assumption that the newly purchased hydraulic oil is clean. In reality:
Particles in barrels
Dirt entering the system during filling
Assembly debris
Oil contaminates the system from the first start-up.
Initial filling and commissioning filtration is therefore a critical but often neglected stage in OEM projects.
- ISO Not Considering Cleanliness Classes Enough
In many OEM designs, the ISO 4406 cleanliness class targeted is not clearly defined. Instead:
Standard filter usage
Copying previous projects
"There have been no problems so far" approach
Preferred.
However, modern servo and proportional valves require much higher oil cleanliness.
- Underestimating the Impact of Filtration on System Performance
Insufficient filtration;
Pressure losses
Decreased valve sensitivity
Wear on cylinder seals
Shortening of oil life
Why.
Since these effects are often not attributed to filtration, problems are sought in different components.
- The Disconnect Between Field Realities and the Design Table
OEM designers often don't experience the system one-on-one in the field. In real operating conditions:
Dusty environments
High temperature
Long working times
It increases the need for filtration.
Filter solutions that seem sufficient at the desk are insufficient in the field.
Filtration is not an option, it is a design criterion
Filtration in OEM hydraulic projects:
Not a detail added later
Not a cost item
It is not a secondary equipment at all
Correct filtration;
Extends system life
Reduces warranty risks
Increases brand credibility
As Hidroman, we guarantee system safety from the design stage with application-specific filtration solutions in OEM hydraulic projects.
The Hidden Cost of Filtration in OEM Warranty Processes
In OEM hydraulic projects, failures during the warranty period are often evaluated based on product quality, user error, or oil selection. However, field data shows that inadequate or incorrectly designed filtration systems are behind a large number of these failures.
In this article, we discuss the direct and indirect cost effects of filtration on OEM warranty processes with their technical and commercial dimensions.
- Invisible Cause of Warranty Failures
Typical hydraulic failures during the warranty period:
Pump premature wear
Servo and proportional valve interlocks
Cylinder inner surface scratches
Seal and sealing element deformations
These failures are often considered as a single component defect. However, oil analyzes reveal that the particle density in the system is well above the permissible ISO cleanliness class.
Lack of filtration is the silent trigger for warranty failures.
- "User Error" Label and Brand Perception
In order to limit warranty claims, OEM companies often will:
Misuse
Unsuitable oil
Violation of care
It resorts to such reasons. However, from an end-user perspective, this approach:
Loss of trust
Damage to brand perception
Long-term customer loss
It leads.
However, the right filtration design ends most of these discussions before they start.
- Warranty Logistics and Operational Costs
Replacing a hydraulic component under warranty is not just the cost of parts:
Field service
Shipping and customs
System downtime cost
Technical reporting
All these items create a serious operational burden for the OEM.
However, in most cases, all of these costs can be avoided from the beginning with the right filtration investment.
- Initial Investment Cost of Filtration vs. Warranty Cost
A common mistake in OEM projects is to evaluate filtration only on the initial cost.
|
Pen |
Low Filtration |
Proper Filtration |
|
Initial investment |
Low |
A little high |
|
Warranty failures |
High |
Very low |
|
Service & Logistics |
Continuous |
Minimal |
|
Brand trust |
Weakens |
Gets stronger |
From a total cost of ownership (TCO) perspective, filtration is the cheapest insurance.
- Oil Analysis and Warranty Defense
Many OEMs only commission oil analysis during warranty processes after the problem occurs. However:
Pre-commissioning
First 100–250 hours
At periodic maintenance intervals
The analysis carried out significantly reduces warranty risks.
Considering filtration + oil analysis together, proactive warranty management becomes possible for the OEM.
- Impact of Filtration on Warranty Periods
For OEM projects with the right filtration design:
Warranty period can be extended
Risk premiums decrease
Aftermarket costs become predictable
This, in turn, directly enhances the OEM's competitiveness in the market.
Filtration is the Invisible but Most Expensive Item
Filtration in OEM hydraulic projects:
It is invisible
Works quietly
However, when neglected, it becomes the most expensive component
As Hidroman, we secure not only the system but also your brand with filtration solutions that reduce warranty risks in OEM hydraulic systems.
Ahmet İpek
Hydraulic Systems Specialist – Hidroman
Industrial & OEM Hydraulic Solutions