Tests revealed that HI-BAR safety screens with rectangular slots, as opposed to circular holes, provided significantly improved flow control. In the tests, two screens with the same open area, one with 100µm slots and one with 100µm circular holes, were subjected to a flow test while introducing glass beads to simulate contamination. As the screens became clogged with the spherical particles, the results confirmed that the screen with the rectangular slots experienced a 50% less pressure drop compared to the screen with the holes.
Typical applications for this type of safety screen include oil tool production where particles could potentially lead to traditional types of safety screens clogging more easily than those with rectangular slots. Depending on size and material, they can withstand pressure differentials up to 7500psid, without rupture.
The screens are manufactured in 17-4PH S/S and are available in UNF and metric threaded boss mount versions and flange mount styles with hole sizes ranging from 75 to 500µm.
Flange mount screens are also available in brass, which is suited for applications where resistance to corrosion and combustion is important, and also in PEEK for use in medical, scientific and aerospace applications.
