Some of the most frequently asked questions from our customers:

1. What kinds of solids will a LAKOS Separator remove?

Basically, only settleable solids (particles which will settle in your fluid within 2-3 minutes). Some success with lighter solids, particularly when settleable solids are also present.

2. What makes LAKOS better than traditional filters?

No moving parts to wear out. No screens or filter elements to clean or replace. No backwashing. Low & steady pressure loss. No routine downtime maintenance. LAKOS Separators operate unattended and continuously to provide particle-free fluids for use and re-use. Effective solids-handling techniques combine to provide complete system solutions. See the Separator Training Center.

3. What sizes of LAKOS Separators are available? How much flow will a LAKOS Separator handle?

Each LAKOS Separator model is designed to handle a specific flow range, from 3 - 12,750 U.S. gpm (.7 - 2895 m3/hr). Do not oversize a LAKOS Separator. For variable flows, contact the factory.

4. What is the pressure loss through a LAKOS Separator?

Each separator operates within a pressure loss of 3-12 psi (.2-.8 bar). Pressure loss is directly related to flow rate, remaining steady according to the flow rate.

5. What material(s) are LAKOS Separators made of?

The standard material of construction for a LAKOS Separator is carbon steel. Models are also available in stainless steel, nickel, titanium and with special coatings. Materials and coatings needed only for corrosive/aggressive fluids, not for abrasion resistance.

6. How long will a LAKOS Separator last?

Separators made out of the same material as the piping in a system (carbon steel, stainless steel, etc.) will typically last as long as that piping in the system.

7. How are LAKOS Separators cleaned/maintained?

Separated solids are captured in a collection chamber in the bottom of each LAKOS Separator. Typically, an automatic valve is employed (via a timer) to periodically flush the separated solids to desired waste. LAKOS also provides systems with continuous purging and zero liquid loss. Solids concentration techniques are also available to minimize waste.

8. Does LAKOS provide complete systems?

The separator's ability to remove solids from liquids is complemented by a proper automatic valve system for purging the separated solids. An appropriate solids-collection device provides for easy concentration of the separated solids for disposal or recovery. LAKOS can fully assemble a packaged system, including a LAKOS Separator, automatic purge valve, solids-handling system and all connecting hardware, electrical components, control instruments and installation/support stand. Pumps, too. Available as an assembled skid system or as components for reduced shipping concerns.

9. Why haven't I heard about LAKOS Separators before?

First developed in the 1960's, the LAKOS Separator began as a filter to protect sprinklers in California's rich agricultural market. From irrigation to food processing, word spread as this centrifugal-action filter was increasingly applied in a wide array of industries, including steel mills, chemical processing, HVAC cooling towers, automotive manufacturing and municipal water works. The success of LAKOS has been its diversity, serving many industries. Today, that success has reached levels of awareness and respect in selected industries for the unique problem-solving capabilities of LAKOS.

10. Where can I buy LAKOS Separators?

LAKOS Separators are sold through a worldwide network of reps, wholesalers, distributors and dealers. Please contact us for details.