Our long-life air filter systems are more durable, with better seals than standard systems – so they protect your tool better and for longer.
What is an air filter?
An air filter is a filter component which is fitted to an engine. It filters the air as it enters the motor, and in doing so removes particles and prevents them from finding their way into the carburettor and engine. In other words, the air filter ensures that the carburettor performs at full capacity, protects the engine against wear and tear, and contributes to a long service life.
Why your tool needs an air filter
When an engine is running it continuously takes in air. This air passes through a filter before it reaches the engine, in order to guarantee that the combustion process runs as smoothly as possible, and to keep wear and tear to a minimum. This is to filter out unwanted particles such as concrete dust, wood splinters and other fine debris from the surrounding air and to stop them from entering the engine, where they can easily cause damage. That’s why many STIHL chainsaws and all STIHL cut-off machines include an innovative long-life air filter system.
chainsaws: extended service life
Most STIHL chainsaws have an innovative long-life air filter system with routing to take the strain off the filter elements. It works like this:
First, the intake air is set in motion; this flushes out the larger and heavier particles in the air. This pre-filtered air is conveyed along the routing channel to the air filter in your STIHL power tool engine. The intake air is then passed through the high-capacity air filter, so the air delivered to the engine via the carburettor or STIHL injection system is clean.
In many of our power tools, this air filter is interchangeable, so the filter material can be adapted to suit the conditions; polyamide filters for cold weather, for example, or our high-performance, innovative HD2 air filter made from polyethylene filter material. The HD2 air filter pores are up to 70% smaller than those in fleece and polyamide filters, meaning it can effectively filter even the finest dust from the intake air. The HD2 air filter is also oil- and water-repellent, as well as being equipped with a highly effective seal that prevents unfiltered air from getting into the engine, thereby prolonging its service life. What’s more, HD2 air filters can be easily cleaned and reused multiple times: just spray the removed filter with STIHL Varioclean, leave the detergent to take effect briefly, then rinse and dry the air filter before reinstalling it.
Watch to learn how to clean your air filter at home.
cut-off machines: cyclone-strength power
STIHL cut-off machines all have a long-life air filter system that includes cyclone routing, a paper filter, and a fine dust filter. The innovative cyclone routing system means no need for daily filter cleaning and a much longer filter service life.
In the first phase, the cyclone routing extracts around 80% of the dust particles in the intake air. Unlike conventional systems, these particles do not collect in the air filter, but are expelled back into the environment together with the cooling air.
Next, the paper filter removes particles from the air that has passed through the cyclone routing system. This efficient routing helps extend the service life. After the paper filter, the fine dust filter traps virtually all of even the finest dust particles.
Benefits of STIHL air filter systems
- Methodical cleaning: routing reduces wear and tear on downstream filters.
- Better filtering effect: the load is shifted away from the high-capacity air filter.
- Longer filter service life: service intervals for cleaning and replacing the air filter are significantly extended. These intervals can vary depending on the filter material and use.
- Low-maintenance and user-friendly: STIHL long-life air filter systems do not require any special care.
- Easy maintenance: cleaning the air filter on a chainsaw is quite straightforward. Details of the process can be found in your operating instructions.
Long-life air filter system
A STIHL chainsaw with long-life air filter system features both routing and an HD2 air filter. This arrangement means a significantly longer filter service life than in traditional filter systems. A long-life air filter system ensures a long service life for the motor and prevents premature wear to the pistons and cylinder, as well as protecting against contamination of the mixture. STIHL recommends cleaning your air filter when you notice a drop in power. For more advice an guidance on how to do this, visit your local STIHL Dealer.