SEPAR SWK vs. LKF
Two systems, two worlds – which filter is the right one?
Two systems, two worlds – which filter is the
The SEPAR SWK is a high-performance fuel filter based on a proven 5-stage filtration principle that combines centrifugal separation with hydrophobic filtration. It is designed for use under demanding conditions – fluctuating fuel quality, vibrations, limited installation space – and is used in a wide range of applications. The SWK is particularly common in marine applications, as it meets the requirements of relevant classification societies. In addition, it is also suitable for off-highway vehicles, industrial applications, and on-highway applications, making it one of the most versatile filters in the SEPAR portfolio.
SEPAR SWK – areas of use at a glance:
- Marine: recreational boats, fishing vessels, ferries, cargo ships, offshore (with classification approval)
- Off-highway: construction machinery, forestry machinery, large tractors
- Industry: large stationary systems, generators, pumping systems
- On-highway: commercial vehicles and special-purpose vehicles with corresponding requirements
The SEPAR LKF: coalescing filtration for off-highway, on-highway and industry
The SEPAR LKF operates on a two-stage hydrophobic and coalescing filtration principle that removes water and dirt particles from the fuel flow with a water separation rate of over 95% – both free and emulsified water. The LKF series covers a broad range of applications: from tractors and construction machinery to trucks, buses and commercial vehicles, right through to stationary industrial systems. With the LKF-Automotive (up to 3 l/min), the LKF-Industrial (up to 8 l/min) and the LKF-Automotive HD (up to 15 bar for common-rail systems), the right version is available for every application.
SEPAR LKF – areas of use at a glance:
- Off-highway: tractors, combine harvesters, forage harvesters, construction machinery, forestry machinery
- On-highway: trucks, buses, municipal vehicles, commercial vehicles
- Industry: stationary systems, generators, pumps, compressors
- Automotive: light commercial vehicles, vans
Product Overview: Which SEPAR System Suits Your Agricultural Machine?
| Kriterium | SEPAR SWK | SEPAR LKF |
|---|---|---|
| Filterprinzip | Zentrifugale Abscheidung & hydrophobes Filterprinzip | Hydrophobes & Koaleszenz-Filterprinzip |
| Typischer Einsatz | Marine, Off-Highway, Industrie, On-Highway | Off-Highway, Automotive, On-Highway, Industrie |
| Max. Volumenstrom | Bis 130 l/min (Einzelfilter) | Bis 3 l/min (Automotive) / bis 8 l/min (Industrial) |
| Klassifikationszulassung | Ja (DNV, Bureau Veritas, Lloyd’s u. a.) | Nein (nicht erforderlich für Off- / On-Highway) |
| Wasserabscheidegrad | 99 % freies Wasser | > 95 % freies & emulgiertes Wasser |
| Bauweise | Robust, vibrationsresistent, für anspruchsvolle Umgebungen | Glasfaserverstärktes Polyamid, leicht & kompakt |
| HVO- / Biodiesel-beständig | Ja | Ja |
| Optionale Erweiterungen | WSA-Sensor, HFP-Handpumpe, Doppel- und Umschaltsystem | WSA-Sensor, HFP-Handpumpe |
| Ausführungen | SWK, SWK Doppelsystem, SWK Umschaltsystem | LKF-Automotive, LKF-Industrial, LKF-Automotive HD |
Decision aid: Which system is right for me?
Choose the SEPAR SWK if…
- You need maximum separation performance for free water (99%)
- Your vehicle or system is subject to a classification society (DNV, Bureau Veritas, Lloyd’s, etc.)
- You need higher fuel flow rates (up to 130 l/min)
- You operate under demanding conditions with strong vibrations or pressure fluctuations
- You need a redundant system for uninterrupted operation during filter changes (dual or changeover system)
Choose the SEPAR LKF if…
- You want to efficiently separate both free and emulsified water (> 95%)
- You want to equip a tractor, construction machine, truck, bus, or an industrial system
- Compactness and low weight are a priority
- The flow rate is below 8 l/min
- You are looking for an easy-to-retrofit solution without special approval requirements
Quick rule of thumb: Both systems can be used in multiple industries. The SWK stands out with the highest separation rates, high flow rates, and classification requirements. The LKF impresses with compactness, coalescing filtration, and broad usability in off- and on-highway applications.
The SWK family: single, dual and changeover system
Depending on the application, the SWK series is available in three configurations:
- SEPAR SWK – the single-filter system for most applications. Compact, reliable, and designed for flow rates up to 130 l/min.
- SEPAR SWK dual system – for higher flow rates up to 260 l/min, ideal for large machines and systems.
- SEPAR SWK changeover system – redundant version for uninterrupted operation even during maintenance or filter changes – indispensable in commercial continuous operation and in critical infrastructures.
Frequently asked questions
Are both systems resistant to HVO and biodiesel?
Yes. Both SEPAR SWK and SEPAR LKF are fully resistant to HVO and biodiesel. Operators switching to alternative fuels do not need to replace their SEPAR systems.
Which accessories are available for both systems?
For both product lines, a WSA water sensor is available as an optional accessory. It monitors the water level in the bowl and issues a warning signal when a critical fill level is reached. The SEPAR HFP manual priming pump is also available for both systems and makes bleeding easier after a filter change.
Can I combine SWK and LKF?
SWK and LKF fulfill different filtration functions and are designed for different application scenarios. Our specialists will be happy to work with you to determine which system is the optimal solution for your specific application.
CONTACT
The Right SEPAR Filter for Tractors and Agricultural Machinery
Our specialists will advise you on the appropriate SWK configuration for your application—free of charge and without obligation.
Phone and Fax
Tel.: +49 2324 9460-0
Fax: +49 2324 40842
You can find us here
Am Walzwerk 2
45527 Hattingen
Germany