Breather filters
The breather filter protects the hydraulic system, gearbox or engine housing from ingress of ambient contaminants. As the machine operates, oil levels change and the reservoir must inhale and exhale air. Without a breather filter every breathing cycle introduces dust and moisture into the oil — the main causes of accelerated component wear.
We supply breather filters with cellulose, synthetic and silica-gel media for hydraulic tanks on construction, agricultural and industrial machinery. HIFI Filter and SF Filter elements available at Filtry.org fit tanks with threads from M24 to M48 and bayonet connections.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the breather filter so important in a hydraulic system?
The hydraulic system draws in air every time a cylinder extends. Without a filter, dust and moisture enter and degrade oil cleanliness. Studies show that 70-80% of hydraulic system failures are caused by oil contamination — the breather filter is an inexpensive insurance policy.
How often should the breather filter be replaced?
Every 500-1,000 engine hours or every 6 months — depending on operating conditions. In very dusty environments (quarries, cement plants) replace every 250 hours. Replace silica-gel breathers when the indicator changes colour from orange to dark green.
What makes silica-gel breather filters different?
Silica gel adsorbs moisture from incoming air, preventing water condensation in the oil. It is essential in machines operating in fluctuating temperatures or high humidity. A colour indicator shows the gel saturation level and signals when replacement is needed.
Can I retrofit a breather filter to any tank?
Yes, provided you select a filter with the correct thread and sufficient air-flow capacity. The capacity must match the system's maximum oil flow rate — an undersized filter creates vacuum in the tank, which can cause pump cavitation.