Friction Factor Evaluation of Replaceable-Element and Conventional Oil Filters in a Precision Benchtop Test Facility

This study examined the friction factor of replaceable element and conventional oil filters in a diesel engine lubrication flow setting, simulated in a precision benchtop facility that was developed for this purpose. Using clean engine oils, pressure drop across the filters was measured as a function of oil temperature and flow rate in the test facility in the range of 100-220°F and 2.0-4.5 GPM typical of diesel engine lubricant flow. The experimental results show systematic differences in the behavior between conventional and replaceable element oil filters attributable to temperature-related permeability variation in the replaceable filter element.