What is the maximum allowable pressure drop across a fuel oil duplex strainer when online?

The maximum allowable pressure drop across a fuel oil duplex strainer when online is 3%. This is important because maintaining the proper pressure drop ensures that the fuel system operates efficiently and effectively. A duplex strainer is designed to provide continuous filtration of fuel oil while allowing for maintenance and cleaning without shutting down the system.

When the pressure drop exceeds the specified limit of 3%, it indicates that the strainer is becoming clogged with particulate matter, which could lead to reduced flow rates and potential issues with fuel delivery to engines and generators. Excessive pressure drops can also cause cavitation or pump strain, leading to increased wear and potential failures in the pump or associated systems. Therefore, monitoring the pressure drop across such strainers is critical for maintaining system reliability and performance.

The other values provided, while they represent a range of potential specifications in different systems, do not align with the operational guideline for typical fuel oil duplex strainers. Specifically, 5% and 10% would be considered too high, risking system performance and integrity.