Compressed air is a valuable resource in various industries, powering a wide range of tools and equipment. However, it is crucial to recognise that compressed air can become contaminated and carry impurities that can cause damage to equipment, affect product quality, and endanger workers. That is why treating compressed air before use with air treatment equipment such as refrigerant and desiccant dryers, as well as filtration, is essential.
Remove moisture #
One of the primary reasons for treating compressed air is to remove moisture. When air is compressed, its temperature increases, causing water vapour to condense. If this moisture is not removed, it can lead to corrosion, rust, and damage to pneumatic equipment. Moreover, moisture can create an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria and fungi, posing a risk to product quality in industries such as food and pharmaceuticals. To combat this, desiccant dryers or refrigerant dryers are used to remove moisture from the compressed air, ensuring its dryness and preventing any potential issues.
Oil contamination #
Another common pollutant in compressed air is oil. Oil can enter the compressed air system through various sources such as lubricants used in compressors or leakage from the compressor itself. Oil in compressed air can contaminate products and processes, leading to costly rejections and disruptions in production. To prevent this, oil filters or coalescing filters are employed to remove oil and other contaminants from the compressed air. These filters capture and trap oil droplets, preventing them from flowing downstream.
Remove dust and dirt from your compressed air #
In addition to moisture and oil, dust, dirt, and other solid particles can also contaminate compressed air. These particles can come from ambient air, wear and tear in the compressor, or from the air distribution system. If these contaminants remain in the compressed air, they can clog or damage pneumatic equipment, affecting performance and efficiency. Therefore, filtration systems, such as particulate filters and activated carbon filters, are utilised to remove solid particles and purify the compressed air.
Compressed air can also become polluted through the presence of odours or undesirable smells. This can occur if the compressed air system is exposed to contaminants, such as chemical vapours or gases, which can impact product quality or create an unsafe work environment. In such cases, additional treatment methods, such as adsorption filters, may be applied to eliminate odours and harmful gases from the compressed air.
To summarise, treating compressed air before use with air treatment equipment is crucial for several reasons. By removing moisture, oil, solid particles, and odours, air treatment equipment ensures the purity and quality of compressed air. This helps prevent equipment damage, maintain product integrity, and create a safe working environment. It is essential for businesses to invest in air treatment equipment and regularly maintain and monitor their compressed air systems to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
Avelair offer a range of air treatment equipment, including refrigerant and desiccant dryers, as well as compressed air filters. Get in touch on 01359 27 28 28 or email info@avelair.co.uk