Distinguishing the difference between simplex and duplex strainers is an important part of understanding the way that basket strainers work. While they both serve the same purpose, their individual designs set them apart from one another in significant ways.
Differences Between Simplex vs Duplex Liquid Strainers
Simplex strainers are used to remove foreign particles from pipe lines. They provide inexpensive protection to pumps, valves, and everything in between. When they become clogged or need to be cleaned, however, these systems must be shut off. Simplex strainers require that the full basket be replaced with an empty basket and only after this process is complete can the flow be resumed.
Duplex strainers are designed for the use of fluid handling where the flow cannot be shut down for basket cleaning or when the system becomes clogged. There are two separate strainer basket housings on this system and there is a valve handle between two baskets to divert the flow of liquid to one strainer while the other is being cleaned. This creates maximum efficiency potential due to 100% uptime and no downtime.
However, differences simplex vs duplex liquid strainer can be found not only in their design but also in the industries and applications where they are the most useful.
Simplex Applications
Simplex strainers have all of the positive traits typically associated with basket strainers. They have a large screen area which prevents the basket from losing pressure. While simplex strainers must be shut down when they are clogged or need cleaning, the frequency in which that is needed is very low. This effectively saves both time and money despite the fact that simplex strainers are single chambered vessels. Simplex strainers allow either mesh or perforated basket options depending on the preference of the user.
The variety and uses of simplex strainers in relation to different applications can be shown through the different models of simplex strainers offered. For example, our economically friendly model, the Eaton Model 30R Strainer, is designed especially for medium duty applications, such as pools and air conditioning install. This basket is easily removable, not requiring the use of any tools in the process. Another one of our models, the Eaton Model 73 Strainer is ideal for high flow, large pipelines. This is because this efficient model specializes in ensuring low amounts of pressure loss.
Both models serve as examples of the diversity within types of strainers. In this way it is easy to narrow down the many models of simplex strainers to find the one that works the best for a specific application.
Duplex Applications
The major benefit of a duplex strainer is that there is no need to shut them off when they become clogged or need to be cleaned. This trait makes duplex strainers perfect for continuous flow applications that cannot shut down their flow process. Industries that benefit from this type of system include but are not limited to chemical, fuel, paper, water, waste, and even firefighting. The diversity of the potential reach of duplex strainers is something that sets them apart, making these strainers a necessity for those industries that benefit from its dual chambers.
Like simplex strainers, duplex strainers are useful to a variety of applications. The Eaton Model 52 Strainer specializes in large pipelines. This model is able to change chambers while maintaining low pressure loss and, due to its small size, it requires less installation space. Despite being dual chamber vessels, duplex systems are surprisingly conservative with space. The Eaton Model 53 BTX Strainer exemplifies this trait with its low profile design that great for limited-space applications.
These are just two of the duplex strainers that we offer. With many options to choose from and various application specialties to discover, the possibilities are limitless when it comes to finding the perfect duplex strainer.
Conclusion: Duplex vs Simplex
Though at first it may seem like the difference between simplex and duplex strainers is very simple, in actuality duplex vs simplex is more complex than it may seem. It comes down to the fact that, although they are both types of basket strainers, their application specialties, cleaning processes, and overall design are extremely unique. Once the difference between simplex and duplex strainers is properly understood, it becomes that much easier to define and distinguish which strainer can best benefit your industry.
If you have any questions about duplex and simplex strainers, please feel free to contact us anytime at (855) 236-0467!