At Pneuparts, we know that your machinery must run optimally in order to make a profit. You want your cylinders to move smoothly and your processes never to come to an unexpected halt. The quality of the air in your pipes is often underestimated.
Clean compressed air in pneumatic systems: Choosing the right filter and dryer is not only technically sensible, but also a smart investment in the lifespan of your equipment.
In this article, we explain how to make the best choices for a healthy compressed air installation, with extra attention to the importance of a clean working environment for the preservation of equipment and processes.
When a compressor draws in ambient air and then compresses it again, much more happens than just increasing the pressure. Compressed air always contains invisible things such as water vapor, dust particles and oil residues.
If you don't address these particles and moisture, it will cause wear and tear on your equipment. Moisture in compressed air not only causes corrosion, but also promotes the growth of microorganisms, which poses additional risks to your system and processes.
Using the right compressed air quality prevents corrosion from forming in your pipework. Corrosion that flows through your pipes affects the material and causes rust particles. These particles release and end up in your valves and cylinders, which can lead to blockages in your system.
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You can choose the right filters and dryers by first looking at the required compressed air quality. We use the international ISO standards and associated guidelines as the basis for a reliable result.
The ISO 8573-1 compressed air quality is the standard used worldwide to indicate how clean the air should be. This standard divides the air quality requirements into classes based on dirt particles, water and oil.
Each sector has its own strictest standards. In the food industry, for example, there should be absolutely no oil in the air. For critical processes, a Class 0 compressed air quality is recommended to completely eliminate air pollution. It is important that you know which class is required for your product.
Together with you, we will look for the best solution, so you avoid unnecessary expenses and you can be sure that your system meets all security requirements. |
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A compressed air filter is used to filter impurities from compressed air. Compressed air must be filtered to remove contaminants such as oil, water and particles to meet quality standards.
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There are different types of filters available, each with its own task. Coarse filters remove the largest particles, while fine filters can eliminate even small oil vapors.
Inside each filter you will find the filter element, over time this element will become saturated by the collected dirt. That is why it is important that you replace this part in time. |
When choosing a filter, you have to pay close attention to the capacity of the airflow. A filter that is too small causes unnecessary pressure loss, which means that the compressor has to work harder. This unnecessarily drives up energy costs and lowers the operation of the entire system.
We recommend that you place several filters in a row. This way, step by step, you can effectively remove both coarse and very fine dirt particles from the airflow.
In addition to filtering dirt particles, drying the air is also of great importance. Moisture and vapor are major enemies of a pneumatic system. Vapor is created when air is compressed. During this process, the temperature rises, causing the air to contain more water vapor. As soon as the air cools down, the vapor turns into water.
An air dryer is necessary for removing moisture and vapor from compressed air. This prevents water and vapor from causing damage to your system and ensures higher air quality.
To understand how dry your air should be, let's look at the dew point:
Lower dew point: This means that the air is drier and there is less chance of condensation.
Higher dew point: This indicates higher humidity and more water vapor in the system.
Influence of pressure and temperature: When the working pressure or temperature rises, the air can trap or form more water vapor.
Refrigerant dryers are the most commonly used method and typically reach a dew point of 2°C to 10°C. They are suitable for most applications that require compressed air under high working pressure and deliver an air quality of Class 4 or higher.
For applications where an extremely low dew point is required, adsorption dryers are used. These can reach a pressure dew point of -40°C and are necessary to achieve a dew point class 3 or lower.
Desiccant dryers use a chemical process in which the desiccant binds moisture from the air.
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There are five techniques for achieving dry compressed air:
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Choosing the right compressed air dryer depends a lot on the factors in your environment and the sensitivity of your equipment. By accurately monitoring the dew point temperature, you also maintain full control over the air quality.
Setting up a system that delivers clean compressed air requires a structured approach.
Follow these steps for improvement:
Analyze the need: Determine what air quality you need for your machines.
Check the compressor: Make sure it is in good condition and does not leak oil excessively.
Insert the filters: Use filters in the correct order, from coarse to fine, to protect the filter element.
Maintenance: Replace filters regularly to prevent blockages and keep airflow clear.
By following these points, the air in your company will get the attention it deserves. This significantly reduces the chance of downtime and ensures that you can enjoy your components for longer.
Achieving the right air quality is an interplay between the compressor, filters and a good dryer. By taking ISO standards into account and choosing from a wide range of compressed air filters, you ensure a system that performs optimally. You prevent corrosion, help eliminate water vapor and increase the reliability of your processes.
How often do I need to replace my filter elements?
Replace it at least annually or in case of a noticeable pressure drop. A saturated filter loses its effect and increases your energy costs because the compressor has to run harder.
When should I choose an adsorption dryer instead of a refrigerant dryer?
A refrigerant dryer (up to 3°C) is sufficient for standard use. Choose an adsorption dryer (down to -40°C) for critical processes such as in the food industry or pipes exposed to frost.
Is a filter alone not enough?
No. Filters stop dirt and oil droplets, but not water vapor. Without a dryer, that vapor still condenses into water in your pipes, leading to rust and wear on your valves and cylinders.
At Pneuparts, we understand that every situation is unique. Do you need help making the right choice or do you want to know more about our products? We are happy to work with you to find the most sustainable solution for your company.
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We are available from Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm (CET)
 | +31(0)493-763993 |
+31(0)493-763993
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