Modern injection systems impose strict requirements on fuel purity. In diesel Common Rail and petrol GDI systems, the permissible size of mechanical impurities is no more than 4 microns. Exceeding this threshold leads to rapid wear of injectors and the high-pressure fuel pump.
Two Filtration Stages
- Preliminary filtration: A strainer filter in the fuel pump module (mesh size 100–150 microns). Non-serviceable, replaced as part of the module.
- Fine filtration: Located in the fuel line. For diesel engines, the STELLOX range includes filters with a water separator. The housing is metal (diesel) or plastic (petrol).
Petrol vs. Diesel: Key Differences
Diesel filters have a metal housing (resistant to vibrations and pressure surges) and require replacement every 20,000–40,000 km due to the high content of paraffins and water in the fuel. Petrol filters are more often plastic, with a service life of up to 60,000 km when using high-quality fuel.
The STELLOX line offers fine fuel filters for both petrol and diesel engines, including models with an integrated water separator and a clogging indicator.
When placing an order, consider the seasonality of demand for diesel filters — the peak occurs in the autumn-winter period due to fuel paraffining issues.