Learn about all the various air compressor filters to determine which ones you need on your equipment. Intake filters are built-in features in today’s air compressors, but you can still switch out the standard filters included with the unit for higher quality replacements. In-line filters are installed between the compressor and the air lines, as the name suggests, to capture contaminants that developed in the tank or that made it past the intake filter.
The cap in the compressed air filter directs the incoming compressed air down into the filter bowl, and against the filter bowl, which forces the air into a tight, cyclonic spiral inside the bowl. Depending on the element capability in the air compressor filter, as the compressed air passes through the filter element, any debris still in the air line is removed down to the filter element size, thereby reducing particulates getting to the air tool. Rather than disassembling the piping, if you want to be crafty, by using another connector and coupler installed in the filter head you can then simply plug the filter into the existing coupler on the compressor with the connector in the filter, and plug the air line into the coupler on the other side of the filter head. If you have long air line runs, know that water will condense out in the lines, and end up spraying out your air tool, even if you have a filter at the compressor.
My buddies tell me that nobody uses them on air nailers, but I have never had a tool break due to moisture. Just make certain your moisture filter doesn’t restrict air flow to your nailer. Moisture condenses in an air compressor tank and air hose during use.
In this guide, we’ll discuss what an air compressor filter is, how it works, some commonly asked questions and how to choose the best filter for your air compressor. Air line filters work by straining air to trap solid particles and separate liquids from compressed air. Inline air compressor filters are essential in facilitating smooth function of your air compressor and its associated components, and without them, you’ll struggle with costly downtime, frequent equipment failure and premature wear of entire systems.
do i need a filter on my air compressor Related Question:
Does my air compressor need a water separator?
The truth is, oil/water separators are not optional, but are mandatory for compressed air applications. An oil/water separator does exactly what you think it would; it separates oil from water. Air compressors produce a significant amount of condensate in the compressor life-cycle.
What does a air filter for a air compressor do?
Air compressor filters, also called air line filters, are used in condensed air lines as a way to stop liquids and solid contaminants from entering air compressors. They stop these contaminants from entering the equipment and causing damage.
How far should the filter be from the compressor?
I usually recommend having about 25 to 30 feet or more between the compressor and the filter and have the pipe tilted so that the condensed water runs back to the compressor’s tank where it can be drained periodically. This helps keep moisture from getting past your filter and into your paint work.
Do you need a regulator on an air compressor?
The pressure regulator is a component that you monitor and adjust to ensure that the corresponding air tool receives proper PSI. Though you might never need to make an air compressor pressure switch adjustment, you probably will need to adjust the pressure regulator if you use an assortment of pneumatic tools.
How do I keep water out of my air compressor tank?
Desiccant Air Dryer Another common way to prevent moisture in air compressor units is with desiccant air dryers, which consist of tiny beads that absorb water from the incoming air. With a design and function that is similar to a water trap filter, the desiccant air dryer absorbs moisture from a compressed air system.
Why does my air compressor make so much water?
Compressors usually contain water separators that remove free water from the air stream, but the air coming out of a compressor is generally warmer than the ambient conditions. As the saturated warm discharge air cools in your pipes, it will release some of its water to condensate—and you will get water in your pipes.
Do air compressors have oil filters?
Oil filters are normally only found on bigger compressors, like oil-injected screw compressors. Obviously, they filter the oil to remove any dirt. In other words: they protect your compressor from damages by dirt, sand, pieces of rust, etc.
Where are air filters used?
Air filters are used in applications where air quality is important, notably in building ventilation systems and in engines. Some buildings, as well as aircraft and other human-made environments (e.g., satellites, and space shuttles) use foam, pleated paper, or spun fiberglass filter elements.
How far should a water trap be from the compressor?
For the water trap to truly function as intended, the water/oil trap needs to be located far enough downstream that the air in the line has had ample time to cool considerably — this generally means at least 20 feet of metal piping (PVC and rubber hoses offer too much insulation to appreciably cool the air over a
Where do you place a water separator?
Install the head unit vertically, above bilge water, between the tank and engine (or primer bulb if on an outboard). The hoses should reach the engine and tank without kinking or making sharp turns. Drill pilot holes in the mounting point, inject sealant and fasten with self-tapping stainless-steel screws.
What is the purpose of air regulator?
Air pressure regulators are used to provide a constant outlet of pressure, separately from the inlet pressure or flow. They are most commonly used to reduce the pressure level required for downstream equipment, stabilising the force applied to cylinders or minimising pressure variation.
Why do air compressors have 2 gauges?
The purpose of the two gauges is to differentiate the regulation of air pressure sent to the tank from the pressurization intensity that occurs inside the tank.
Is it OK to leave air in an air compressor?
The short answer is yes, it is perfectly safe to leave an air compressor full. However, this assumes that it has been properly maintained, with regular draining to remove accumulated moisture from inside the tank.
Do I need an air dryer for my compressor?
Air dryers are essential for air compressors. They keep compressors free of moisture, and prevent condensate and rust problems from occurring. Air compressors produce a lot of water. While this water can be drained, the moisture isn’t removed entirely from the system.
How often should I drain my air compressor?
It is recommended that you drain your tank daily, whether it is manually or automatically. Water build up in your tank can cause the bottom of your tank to rust forcing you to invest in a new tank. If you find yourself forget about draining your tank, you should look into purchasing an electronic drain valve.
