A Witches Hat Strainer, also called a temporary cone or Startup Strainer, features a cone-shaped or witch's hat design. Its broad surface area and tapered form make it highly effective in catching particles while minimizing pressure drop. Frequently constructed from stainless steel or corrosion-resistant alloys, these strainers are both durable and easy to install.
Key benefits:
• Efficient removal of welding slag, scale, sand, and rust during system commissioning
• Conical design maximizes filtration surface while preserving flow
• Simple installation and cleaning, and often reusable
Why Use One During Startup?
In oilfield operations, sudden startup phases can release debris like welding slag, rust, or scale into pipelines. A witches hat oilfield strainer is a vital temporary filtration solution designed to protect sensitive downstream components during these critical moments.
During pipeline commissioning, debris poses a significant threat to pumps, meters, valves, and other sensitive equipment. Installing a startup strainer helps avoid costly damage and operational downtime. These withes hat strainers act as the first line of defense, safeguarding systems until the pipeline is clean and stable.
Technical Insights & Options
✔ Types and Construction
YUBO provides a few common variants of witches hat oilfield strainers:
• Perforated cone strainers: Robust for coarse debris
• Wire Mesh cone strainers: Ideal for finer particles (20–200 mesh typical)
• Hybrid designs: Combine perforated plates with mesh for layered filtration
Related Reading>>Wire Mesh Temporary Filter VS Perforated Temporary Filter
✔ Material Choices & Sizes
We commonly use carbon steel, stainless steels (304L, 316L), or alloys matching system specs. Standard line sizes range from ¾-inch to 24-inch, covering ANSI schedule 150# or 300# pipe classes.
✔ Performance Metrics
• Open area: Quality strainers achieve 100–150% open area to maintain flow
• Mesh grades: Available in a range like 20-200 mesh for fine filtration
• Customizations: Options include reinforcement rings, handles, traceability certifications, flange compatibility, and custom materials
Comparing with Other Strainer Types
| Strainer Type | Use Case | Key Feature |
| Witches Hat, Temporary Cone Strainer | Temporary startup filtration | Large surface, easy install |
| Basket Strainer | Permanent filtration, high debris loads | Large capacity, reusable |
| Y-Strainer | Compact, general filtration | Low-cost, used upstream |
| Duplex Strainer | Continuous flow systems | Parallel baskets for no-downtime filtering |
Basket strainers offer permanent protection, while Y-strainers are compact and cost-effective. Duplex strainers are ideal when maintenance must occur without stopping flow.
We are a trustworthy witches hat strainer manufacturer and offer the following services:
• Define Specifications: Line size, pressure rating, flow requirements, debris size
• Material & Quality: Verify corrosion resistance, welding quality, and material traceability
• Customization Capabilities: Ask about mesh options, reinforcements, handles, flanges
• Lead Time & Support: Check stock availability, delivery timelines, and technical support
A Witches Hat Oilfield Strainer or Startup Strainer delivers invaluable protection to downstream equipment during pipeline commissioning. Their conical form ensures efficient debris capture, straightforward installation, and easy maintenance.
When selecting a manufacturer, focus on quality materials, customization, certifications, and delivery reliability.
