What Does Air Treatment Mean?
It means CLEAN AIR!
When speaking of air compressors, compressed air treatment is a process that dehumidifies and cleans air before entering the compressor. Most commonly, this process involves air filters and an air dryer. An effective compressed air treatment system lowers the “dew point” of the air and takes out particles that may negatively harm the air compressor.
What Types of Air Treatment Are Out There?
Explore the list below of different air treatment solutions:
In-Line Filters: primarily to remove rust, scale, dirt, and other solid particles. Particulate filters are very versatile and can be used with either lubricated or non-lubricated compressors. Often used to filter before and after the air enters & exits the compressor.
Dryer: Removes moisture from compressed air. They are available in different types based on your application and needs. In general, the main types of air dryers are refrigerant or adsorption dryers.
Air/Oil separator: A device in the compressor that separates oil from the air/oil mixture compressed in the air-end. This is essential for keeping the air clean and safe.
Condensate Drains: Collect and discharge liquids from after-coolers, separators, receivers, dryers, filters, and drip legs. These drains prevent moisture from accumulating in the system and causing damage.
Common Contaminants in Compressed Air
Compressed air can contain various contaminants, including moisture, oil particles, dirt, and other impurities. These contaminants can negatively impact the performance and longevity of a compressed air system. The right compressed air treatment equipment removes these contaminants and ensure the quality of the air reaching different applications.
Methods of Air Treatment
Water Separators
Water separators are used to remove moisture from the air supply. They ensure that dry air flows through the hose and tools, preventing moisture-related damage to the equipment.
Air Compressor Filters
Air compressor filters are designed to remove contaminants such as oil, dirt, and other particles from the air stream. Depending on the application, specialized filters such as oil coalescing filters and activated carbon filters may be needed to meet specific cleanliness requirements.
Compressed Air Dryers
Compressed air dryers remove excess moisture from the air stream, preventing damage to equipment and products. Different types of dryers offer varying degrees of dew point performance, and selecting the right dryer for a specific application is essential for optimal performance.
Regular Maintenance of Air Treatment Equipment
Regular maintenance of air treatment equipment is essential to ensure the longevity and efficiency of a compressed air system. You need to clean and replace air filters regularly to maintain their effectiveness. Proper maintenance helps prevent damage to equipment, improves air quality, and maintains the overall performance of the system.
Investing in air treatment is a sort of insurance of compressed air system. Air treatment extends air compressor’s lifespan and saves you money in the long run.
Common Questions Related to Air Treatment
Why is air treatment important for a compressed air system?
Air treatment is important for a compressed air system to ensure that the air used in operations is clean, dry, and at the right temperature. Proper filtration and drying help prevent damage to tools and equipment, reduce health hazards, and improve the overall efficiency of the system.
What are some common contaminants that can be removed through air treatment?
Common contaminants that can be removed through air treatment include moisture, oil particles, dirt, and other impurities that can negatively impact the performance and longevity of a compressed air system.
What are some different methods of air treatment?
Different methods of air treatment include using water separators to remove moisture, air compressor filters to remove contaminants, lubricators to protect tools, and compressed air dryers to remove excess moisture from the air stream.
How can regular maintenance of air treatment equipment benefit a compressed air system?
Regular maintenance of air treatment equipment, such as cleaning and replacing filters, can ensure the longevity and efficiency of a compressed air system. Proper maintenance helps prevent damage to equipment, improves air quality, and maintains the overall performance of the system.
What role do regulators and lubricators play in air treatment?
Regulators and lubricators help control airflow and pressure in an air system, ensuring that the air reaches tools at the correct pressure levels and is properly lubricated. These components play a crucial role in maintaining the performance and longevity of pneumatic tools and equipment.
Looking forward to learn more on Compressed air treatment solutions
Air treatment is a critical component of a well-functioning compressed air system. With the proper air treatment and scheduled maintenance, your compressor remains reliable and efficient for years to come.
Taking the time to properly filter, dry, and regulate the air used in your operations can prevent costly damage, improve efficiency, and protect the health of those working with compressed air.
For more information on air treatment solutions, visit the Chicago Pneumatic homepage.
