Recognizing the increasing importance of eco-conscious practices, our products are developed with a strong emphasis on environmental friendliness.

Manikandan
Country Sales Head, Filtrec Bharat Manufacturing

What are the innovative features or technologies incorporated into your filters?
Filtrec Bharat is renowned for continuous innovation in the field of Hydraulic Filtration. We allocate more than 5% of our revenue to R&D for research and testing. The main challenges in hydraulic circuits, such as entrapments of dirt/foreign particles, include varnish and sludge formation, oxidation and rust formation, noise, quick aging, and degradation of hydraulic oil, as well as frequent damage to hydraulic parts. Our new Anti-Varnish Media prevents varnish and sludge formation, and our Absolute Beta Spark Buster Filter eliminates ESD noise in hydraulic lines. The Absolute BETA H20 Filter removes oxidation and rust formation. Our new SYN media of Absolute filtration can extend the oil change/filter change period, avoiding spending on breakdown maintenance for hydraulic valves, cylinders, and pumps.

How do your filters enhance the performance of construction equipment?
Filtrec hydraulic filters play a crucial role in enhancing the performance of construction equipment by effectively removing contaminants from hydraulic fluids. These filters prevent particles, debris, and contaminants from circulating through the hydraulic system, ensuring optimal efficiency and longevity of the equipment. By maintaining clean hydraulic fluid, Filtrec filters help prevent wear and tear on vital components like pumps, valves, and cylinders, reducing the risk of equipment failure and costly repairs. Additionally, these filters contribute to improved overall system reliability, minimizing downtime and enhancing productivity on construction sites. With their high-quality filtration capabilities, Filtrec hydraulic filters ensure that construction equipment operates at peak performance, maximizing both operational efficiency and the lifespan of the machinery.

Any specific data or metrics showcasing the effectiveness of your filters (e.g., particle removal efficiency, flow rates)?
Absolute Beta configuration delivers exceptional performance, extended life cycle, and unparalleled filtration efficiency for hydraulic filters.
 All Absolute Beta tests demonstrated minimal pressure drop, allowing users to opt for a smaller filter without compromising performance. 
With Absolute Beta filtration technology, we offer several different micron ratings in fiberglass media, which are 1 – 3 – 5 – 10 – 15 – 20 microns. A microfiber configuration for absolute-rated filters according to the multipass test ISO 16889.
 Major benefits are visible on the 3 – 5 and 10-micron media pack, where we found a D.H.C. increase of over 40%, compared with our previous media pack, which in most cases is greater than our major competitor. 
With the Absolute Beta configuration, it is possible to achieve a 20% reduction in energy or fuel consumption.
 
How does your company address environmental concerns in filter manufacturing?
To minimize our environmental impact, Filtrec Bharat Manufacturing Pvt. Ltd. is dedicated to the principles of ‘sustainable product, sustainable process, and sustainable people.’ Our commitment begins with responsible sourcing of raw materials and manpower and extends across production, transportation, usage, and end-of-life disposal. Recognizing the increasing importance of eco-conscious practices, all our products are developed with a strong emphasis on environmental friendliness.
An exemplary initiative is our “Complete Hydraulic Filters Kits - Excavator,” a testament to our eco-friendly consciousness. By encouraging end-users to change filters annually instead of the previous norm of 2 or 3 changes per year, we not only reduce customer spending but also minimize the number of filters procured, thereby positively impacting the environment. Furthermore, our filters boast a 99.99% accuracy in absorbing dirt from hydraulic oil, ensuring extended cleanliness and contributing to a longer service life. Filtrec remains committed to continual innovation for sustainable and environmentally responsible filter manufacturing.

Can you share any recent innovations in construction equipment filters?
The new Absolute Beta filtration technology by FILTREC comes from three decades of experience within filter element construction.
ABSOLUTE BETA | SPARK BUSTER technology: This technology provides anti-static protection that not only reduces electrostatic discharge but also enables excellent filtration in extremely critical systems.
ABSOLUTE BETA | H2O PLUS technology: This technology is an effective water absorption configuration for separating water from hydraulic fluids and simultaneously providing optimal filtration of solid particles.
ABSOLUTE BETA | SYN MEDIA technology: This synthetic fiber media, designed especially for our return filter range, ensures a lower pressure drop, making it suitable for high-viscosity oil and/or in the presence of high-temperature variations, guaranteeing the reliable operability of your mobile machine.

How does your company stay ahead in terms of research and development in filter technology?
Our company allocates approximately 5 percent of our yearly expenditure to global research and development efforts. We prioritize meeting customer requirements while simultaneously striving to bring outstanding filter products to the market through a commitment to continuous innovation. This financial investment enables us to hire top talent, collaborate with key partners, and stay at the forefront of technological advancements in filter technology.

What trends do you observe in the market for construction equipment filters?
For this Fiscal year FY23-24, the Indian Construction equipment industry is expected to reach 125,000 units, surpassing the previous peak of 107,779 units in FY23-22, and expected to double every 4 years going forward. Hence, the similar growth trend is also applicable to Hydraulic filters. Thanks to the increasing awareness of equipment maintenance and AMC contract practices, end-users are motivated to replace the hydraulic element as per the prescribed service interval. This also adds to the demand for hydraulic filters.

Are there any challenges that the industry is currently facing, and how is your company addressing them?
Nowadays, end customers are more demanding and technology-oriented in the QCD (Quality, Cost & Delivery) aspect. Most importantly, they expect a top-notch product at a lower price. This is the true challenge that is driving us to increase localized content to 80% and be competent for both German and Chinese competitors.