Technical 15 www.aftermarketonline.net DECEMBER/JANUARY 2026 accelerates component wear and increases the risk of overheating and potential engine damage. At this stage, the only thing to do is to replace both the oil and the filter promptly. Breakdown failure What happens if the oil filter is not replaced when necessary? The internal filtering media can become damaged or collapse. The filtration effect becomes virtually nil and unfiltered oil flows straight into the engine. Lubrication with unfiltered oil can have an abrasive effect on the walls of the combustion chamber. This allows oil to enter the combustion chamber and blue smoke is emitted from the exhaust. Maintenance costs will rise significantly. In mild cases, replacing the piston rings and regrinding the cylinder might be enough, though costly, while in more serious cases the engine may need to be replaced. Tech advances When replacing the oil filter, it is crucial to choose a reliable brand. Using a poor-quality filter not only fails to achieve the intended filtration effect but also significantly reduces its service life. UFI oil filters feature cutting-edge solutions to keep up with the everevolving automotive industry and support technological advances such as engine downsizing, the adoption of start-stop systems, integration of hybrid technologies, and the adoption of Euro 6 and forthcoming Euro 7 engines. UFI can also boast in-house production of innovative filtering materials, branded FormulaUFI. Among other advances, the company has developed a revolutionary filtering media called FormulaUFI.Micron, which is based on glass fibres (sometimes mixed with synthetic fibres) to maximise filter lifespan, optimise efficiency and reduce pressure drop. The efficiency of the filter is related to the size and distribution of the fibres: very small fibres increase filtration efficiency, while the gradient size extends the element’s service life. Furthermore, in oil modules, UFI uses reinforced plastic, which improves durability and performance. This innovation contributes to the overall efficiency and longevity of the filtration system. UFI’s commitment to innovation includes the use of novel materials for oil filters and multifunctional integration within the modules. This not only reduces weight but also simplifies the design, making the filters more efficient and compact. They are designed to ensure optimal resistance to high operating pressures, guaranteeing consistent performance even in tough conditions, as well as providing reliable protection for the engine. The filtering material used by UFI for its oil filters goes beyond simple filtration — it also ensures the highest engine performance. This is particularly important with the introduction of new, long-life lubricants, additives and oils — both mineral and non-mineral — which can cause lubricant degradation over time. UFI is also committed to environmental sustainability, and its filters reflect this commitment. The company’s ‘green’ modules — with no metal parts — are designed for minimal environmental impact, in line with the automotive industry’s growing focus on eco-friendliness. Completely blocked oil filter Internal structure of a new oil filter Normal operating status of the oil filter
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ0NzM=