A compressed air system is the engine of your company. Whether it's a local workshop or a complex production line, downtime due to contamination or defects is simply not an option. At Pneuparts in Deurne, we understand this like no other.

 

Our specialists not only supply the right parts, but also advise you with the necessary advice to make your system more efficient. 

 

In this knowledge base article, we dive deep into the world of control, measurement and filtering, so that you know exactly how to get the most out of your processes.

Why control, measurement and filtering is the foundation of every system

When we talk about a pneumatic system, there are three processes that must always be in balance. Control, measure and filter is the trinity for every entrepreneur who takes his machines seriously. 

• Without proper filtering, moisture and dirt will get into your valves.
• Without the right control, you waste valuable energy due to too high a workload. 
• Without measuring, you are completely in the dark about the status of your installation.

We often see that systems do not perform optimally because a small component, such as an outdated pressure switch, is not properly adjusted. By paying attention to these details, you significantly extend the life of your valuable equipment.

 

Compressed air filters: for clean and dry air

Unfortunately, compressed air is never completely clean when it comes out of a compressor. It often contains water vapor, oil residue and small dust particles. If you don't address this, it will cause corrosion and faster wear and tear on your tools. That is why good filters are indispensable.

Different types of filtering

There are various degrees of filtering, depending on your application: Standard filters: Remove coarser particles and condensation. Fine filters: Necessary for sensitive equipment where the air must be extra pure. Activated carbon filters: Extract odors and oil vapors from the air, crucial in the food industry, for example.

By replacing your filter elements in time, you prevent pressure drops. A lower pressure drop means that your compressor doesn't have to work as hard, which is immediately reflected in your energy bill. Do you want to know which filtering suits your specific process? Our experts are happy to think along with you for a sustainable solution.

 

Pressure regulators: Control your energy consumption

The 'control' part of the trinity of regulating, measuring and filtering, this part largely comes down to the use of the right pressure regulators. 

A compressor often builds up a higher pressure than you actually need at your point of use. A pressure regulator ensures that the outgoing pressure remains constant, regardless of fluctuations in the supply.

Advantages of pressure regulators:

Prevents pressure fluctuations Protection of sensitive equipment Suitable for various industrial applications

 

Why is this so important? With the right pressure control, you can prevent damage to tools and save on energy costs by reducing the pressure per bar.

 

To measure is to know with horizontal and vertical pressure gauges

Without visual control over your system, you never know if your pressure regulators are doing their job properly. This is where pressure gauges come into play. These instruments give you direct insight into the current pressure within your pipes or tank.

Horizontal or vertical?

The choice between horizontal and vertical pressure gauges depends on the mounting position.

Vertical pressure gauges: The connection is at the bottom. These are usually mounted directly on a pipe or pressure reducing valve. Horizontal pressure gauges: The connection is at the back. These are ideal for installation in panels or control cabinets.

 

An easy-to-read pressure gauge is the first step towards a safe working environment. You can immediately see when something is wrong, for example if the pressure rises dangerously high or drops due to a leak.

 

Pressure switches for automation and safety

To complete the process of controlling, measuring and filtering, we look at pressure switches. 

Where a pressure gauge tells you what the pressure is, a pressure switch takes action. For example, it switches the compressor on when the pressure falls below a certain limit, and off again when the maximum pressure is reached.

Thanks to this automation, you don't have to constantly keep an eye on everything yourself, which saves you time and immediately creates a safer working environment. Should the pressure in a system rise above a critical limit, a pressure switch can immediately shut down the system to prevent damage. 

 

We are happy to help you select the right circuit for your specific installation.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should I change my filters in a compressed air system?

On average, we recommend replacing filter elements at least once a year, or more often if the pressure drop across the filter becomes too great. This prevents contamination from flowing through to your machines.

 

What is the difference between a pressure regulator and a pressure switch?

A pressure regulator reduces the incoming pressure to a constant working pressure. A pressure switch is an electrical component that gives a signal (for example, to the compressor motor) based on the measured pressure.

 

Why should I choose a horizontal pressure gauge instead of a vertical one?

This depends on your mounting location. If you want to build the pressure gauge into a control panel, a horizontal (rear connection) is more practical. For direct mounting on a pipe, you usually choose a vertical (bottom connection).

 

Get the best out of your pneumatics

Properly regulating, measuring and filtering your compressed air is not an unnecessary luxury, but a necessity for every business operation. By using high-quality filters, accurate pressure regulators, reliable pressure gauges, and smart pressure switches, you ensure a system that will last for years.

 

At Pneuparts in Deurne, we are here to unburden you. We combine technical knowledge with an informal, personal approach. This way you can be sure that you are not only buying the right part, but also getting the best solution for your specific situation.

 

Optimize your compressed air system? View our range of air care or contact us directly for tailor-made advice. We are happy to help you.

 

 

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