Home / News / How does the filter work to remove contaminants from the engine oil?
A spin-on oil filter is a crucial component in an automotive engine's lubrication system, and its primary function is to remove contaminants from the engine oil, ensuring that the oil circulates through the engine in a clean and efficient manner. Here's how the filter works to achieve this:
Filter Media:
The interior of the spin-on oil filter contains a filter media, which is the material responsible for capturing contaminants. Common filter media include cellulose, synthetic fibers, or a blend of both.
Filtration Process:
As the engine operates, oil is circulated through the lubrication system to provide vital lubrication to moving parts. The oil passes through the filter media in the spin-on oil filter.
Mechanical Filtration:
Contaminants in the oil, such as dirt, metal particles, sludge, and other debris, encounter the filter media. The filter media acts as a physical barrier, mechanically capturing these contaminants as the oil flows through.
Micron Rating:
The filter media is designed to capture particles of a specific size. The micron rating of the filter indicates the size of particles the filter can effectively trap. Lower micron ratings signify a finer filtration, capturing smaller particles.
Flow Direction:
The oil flows through the filter from the outside to the inside. This design ensures that contaminants are trapped on the outer surface of the filter media, allowing clean oil to pass through to the engine.
Bypass Valve:
In the event that the filter becomes clogged or the oil is too thick, a built-in bypass valve in the filter allows oil to bypass the filter and continue circulating through the engine. This prevents a total loss of oil flow in case of extreme conditions.
Anti-Drain Back Valve:
Many spin-on oil filters feature an anti-drain back valve. This valve prevents oil from draining back into the engine when the vehicle is turned off. It helps maintain oil pressure and reduces the risk of dry starts.
Filter Housing:
The spin-on oil filter is housed in a metal or plastic container. The filter housing contains the filter media and other components, and it is threaded onto the engine block. During an oil change, the entire filter is replaced.
Filter Replacement:
Periodically, the spin-on oil filter needs to be replaced as part of routine maintenance. This is typically done during an oil change. The frequency of replacement depends on factors such as the type of driving conditions and the oil change interval recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
Oil Circulation:
Once the contaminants are captured by the filter, the clean oil continues its journey through the engine, providing effective lubrication to components like bearings, pistons, and camshafts.
By effectively capturing and removing contaminants, the spin-on oil filter helps maintain the quality of the engine oil, preventing the buildup of debris that could lead to increased friction, wear, and potential damage to engine components. Regularly replacing the oil filter is essential to ensure the continued efficiency of the engine's lubrication system.