Author Archives: Compressed Air Systems, Inc.

1. The First Air Compressors

   December 5, 2023 4:56 am Comments Off on The First Air Compressors

   Air compressors are used in a variety of industries to provide compressed and pressurized air for many applications. These devices are now even used to power construction and manufacturing equipment and to drive control system valves, but earlier compressors were much less versatile. The advent of air compressors dates back thousands of years.

   The First Air Compressors: Humans?

   The earliest air compressor was actually the human lung. Since the human body can exhale oxygen, people once used their breath to stoke fires. The trend of providing our own air pressure faded around 3000 B.C. as the practice of metallurgy became prevalent. Metalsmiths were melting down various materials such as gold and copper, and they soon realized that higher temperatures were needed.

   Healthy lungs can only produce .02 to .08 bar (1 bar equates to 14.5 psi) of air pressure—hardly adequate for metalworking tasks. Also, the carbon dioxide content in human breath wasn’t helpful for sustaining fires. The demand for stronger air compressors began to grow as time progressed.

   The First Air Compressors: Bellows

   In 1500 B.C., a new type of air compressor called a bellows was invented. This device was a hand-held (and later foot-controlled) flexible bag that produced a concentrated blast of air ideal for achieving higher-temperature fires.

   The basic design of the bellows has remained unchanged since its invention and can still be found today by fireplaces, inside musical pump organs, and in other devices.

   The First Air Compressors: Water Power

   During the Industrial Revolution of the eighteenth century, advancements in air compression made it possible for metal mines, factories, and other facilities to increase productivity. In 1762, professional engineer John Smeaton designed a water wheel-driven blowing cylinder that slowly replaced the bellows.

   The First Air Compressors: Blasting Machine

   Though Smeaton’s device was efficient, it was replaced in turn by the hydraulic blasting machine invented by John Wilkinson in 1776. Wilkinson’s blasting machine became the archetype for later mechanical air compressors.

   Air compressors were used for more than just metalworking in those days; they were also used for mining and fabricating metals and providing ventilation to underground areas. During the 1857 construction of the Italy-France rail system, compressors were often used to move large air volumes into the 8-mile construction tunnel. Soon after, people conceptualized more ways to utilize the technology.

   The First Air Compressors: Electric Power

   By 1800, people began using air compressors to transmit energy. Austrian engineer Viktor Popp created the first compressor plant in Paris in 1888. In just three years, Popp’s 1,500 kW compressor plant grew to 18,000 kW. Another plant was also built at Quai de la Gare. In 1889, Popp attained municipal permission to use his compressed air power network to supply electricity to local generators.

   More innovations in air compression continued improving upon the process and soon began incorporating electricity and pneumatic energy.

   

   

   Modern Air Compressors from Compressed Air Systems

   Today, there are many types of air compressors to choose from. Compressed Air Systems offers a vast product line of air compressor types that include the following:

   • Oil-free
   • Reciprocating
   • Vehicle-mounted
   • Rotary screw
   • Electric
   • Gas-powered
   • Remanufactured
   • And more

   Whether you’re located in Orlando, Tampa, or outside Florida, Compressed Air Systems can provide quality industrial air compressors and services that meet your unique needs. Browse our catalog, or contact us today to learn more about our air compressors.

2. Nitrogen Generators for Food & Beverage Packaging

   October 30, 2023 1:25 pm Comments Off on Nitrogen Generators for Food & Beverage Packaging

   Extending shelf life and maintaining product quality are essential in the food and beverage industry. A nitrogen generator for food packaging provides an effective tool for achieving these goals. Learn more about the role of nitrogen in food packaging, the types of nitrogen generators available, their applications, and more.

   The Role of Nitrogen in Food & Beverage Packaging

   Nitrogen plays a crucial role in preserving the quality and freshness of packaged food and beverage products, particularly by doing the following:

   • Reducing spoilage and oxidation
   • Protecting against contaminants
   • Extending the shelf life of the products

   Eliminating oxygen from the packaging environment slows product deterioration, so customers receive the freshest food and beverages possible.

   Types of Nitrogen Generators for Food Packaging

   There are three primary types of nitrogen generators in the food and beverage industry:

   1. Membrane Nitrogen Generators: This type of generator separates nitrogen from other gases using selective permeability. Membrane nitrogen generators are cost-effective and efficient for low-purity nitrogen applications.
   2. Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) Nitrogen Generators: PSA generators adsorb oxygen and other gases to allow the free-flowing release of nitrogen. These units are suitable for moderate to high-purity nitrogen requirements.
   3. Cryogenic Nitrogen Generators: This type of generator separates nitrogen from other gases by cooling the air to extremely low temperatures. They are an ideal solution for large-scale operations and high-purity nitrogen demands.

   Benefits of Using Nitrogen Generators in Food & Beverage Packaging

   Using nitrogen generators for food packaging offers numerous distinct advantages, including but not limited to the following:

   • Better Product Quality: Using a nitrogen generator helps products remain fresher longer, with improved texture, taste, and color.
   • Cost Efficiency: Eliminating the need for expensive nitrogen gas cylinders offers considerable cost savings in the long run.
   • Reduced Environmental Impact: Manufacturers can reduce their carbon footprint by decreasing their reliance on nitrogen cylinders.
   • Consistency in Nitrogen Purity: Nitrogen generators provide a consistent and stable nitrogen supply.
   • Adaptability to Packaging Needs: Nitrogen generators can be customized to meet various packaging requirements and demands of the food and beverage industry.

   Applications of Nitrogen Generators in Food & Beverage Packaging

   Nitrogen generators are widely implemented for packaging in the food and beverage industry, proving beneficial in the following applications:

   • Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP): To effectively prolong product freshness, the oxygen gets replaced with nitrogen during packaging. Examples of MAP include capsule packaging machines that fill coffee pods and VFFS machines that inflate chip bags.
   • Nitrogen Blanketing: This prevents container collapse and protects bulk storage during product transfer.
   • Beverage Can & Bottle Filling: In addition to maintaining carbonation, nitrogen extends the aroma and flavor in bottled and canned beverages.

   Considerations When Choosing a Nitrogen Generator in Food & Beverage Packaging

   In nitrogen generation, oxygen is filtered out of a compressed air stream to create a nitrogen gas steam. A nitrogen generator can operate around the clock, with several sizes available to meet the demands of a specific application. Food-grade nitrogen must adhere to various quality and purity standards within the food and beverage industry. Using food-grade nitrogen helps to avoid contamination while lengthening the shelf life of products and preserving the flavor of food and beverage items.

   Choosing a nitrogen generator for food packaging involves careful consideration of the following factors:

   • Compliance with food safety standards
   • Cost
   • Flow rate
   • Maintenance demands
   • Purity requirements
   • Space

   Nitrogen Generators for Food Packaging from Compressed Air Systems, Inc.

   Compressed Air Systems, Inc. provides air compressor services in Tampa, Florida, and beyond. As a leading expert in compressed air, we have over 50 years of industry experience performing maintenance and repairs for a wide variety of air compressor makes and models. Some of the services we offer include the following:

   • Air audits
   • General inspections
   • Leak inspections
   • Preventative maintenance
   • Refurbishment
   • Repair

   For information on how to install your nitrogen or other compressed air system, download our Compressed Air System Installation Guide, which provides step-by-step instructions and factors to consider for safe installation. Browse our catalog or contact us to learn how Compressed Air Systems, Inc. can help you.

3. Check Your Air Compressor Safety Relief Valves

   September 20, 2023 4:42 am Comments Off on Check Your Air Compressor Safety Relief Valves

   Air compressors supply pressurized air for diverse applications. To prevent unsafe pressure levels within air compressors, their design includes air compressor safety relief valves, also known as air compressor pop-off valves and pressure safety valves. These valves will open to release built-up pressure once the compressor reaches its set pressure and close again when the compressor returns to normal levels. They play an important part in the safety and performance of this equipment. You should check them periodically to make sure they’re clean, undamaged, and functioning optimally to protect your system from costly equipment failure and your property and workforce from hazardous conditions.

   Why Air Compressor Safety Relief Valve Testing Is Important

   Properly caring for any high-powered equipment requires routine checks to support both operator safety and system reliability. Maintaining your air compressor safety relief valves safeguards against excessive pressure buildup in your compressor, which could otherwise be disastrous for your equipment or facility. In addition to ensuring that you’re using safe equipment and components, maintaining and inspecting safety relief valves and pressure levels assists with keeping your equipment compliant with any industry regulations or safety standard requirements.

   Benefits of Regular Air Compressor Safety Relief Valve Maintenance

   Performing regular valve checks is an essential step toward preventing equipment failure and promoting workplace safety. By detecting defective or damaged components before they fail, you can take proactive measures to repair or replace them before they cause any major disruptions to your business. Air compressor breakdowns can lead to expensive operational problems for a manufacturing facility, including costly unscheduled downtime, replacement parts, and labor fees.

   Enhanced safety is not the only benefit of properly maintaining and testing air compressor safety relief valves; this also improves the performance and dependability of the valves themselves and your air compressor. You optimize both functionality and the life cycle of your equipment by properly caring for its components. This has the side benefit of boosting productivity in your operation, as well.

   How to Check Your Safety Relief Valves

   To effectively check a safety relief valve, begin by pulling its ring when the system is at operating pressure. This will depressurize the air compressor system and help you ensure that no air is stuck in the valve. Next, turn the compressor off and build the system pressure back up to make sure that it’s not releasing early. If, during these checks, you find that a valve isn’t performing as it should or you see evidence of corrosion, it’s time to clean, repair, or replace it.

   Maintenance Tips for Air Compressor Safety Relief Valves

   Following a regular maintenance schedule is essential for the safety of your air compressor and optimizing its performance. The following are some maintenance tips to have your air compressor safety relief valves functioning at their best:

   • Perform regular cleanings and clear away any debris.
   • Schedule regular inspections, looking for general wear, blockages, or corrosion damage.
   • Handle valve repairs or part replacements promptly should your inspection uncover any issues.
   • Mark any equipment with faulty safety relief valves as inoperable until repairs are complete.
   • Schedule periodic calibration checks, making any necessary alterations to ensure proper pressure relief.
   • Document all cleanings, inspections, maintenance, and repairs not only to keep track of them but also to identify any recurring problems or maintenance patterns with your valves.
   • Refer to the operation manual for pressure limits, maintenance techniques, and optimal testing timeframes.

   Audit Your Air Compressor Safety Relief Valves

   Auditing your safety relief valves regularly is crucial for the safe and lasting operation of your air compressors. Following the recommended maintenance tips will help assure reliability in your valves and compressors, safeguarding against costly part damage and downtime.

   Since 1963, the team at Compressed Air Systems, Inc. has specialized in quality air compressor solutions. We offer in-house design consultations, installation, round-the-clock service, and equipment rentals to provide you with comprehensive services.

   We can also help your team audit the performance and reliability of your air compressors and components. Compressed Air Systems will send one of our expert system technicians to your facility for a full evaluation. The specialist can help pinpoint problems like system or piping leaks, inadequate fittings, and equipment overuse, with a focus on optimizing your equipment while saving you money on electricity consumption wherever possible.

   We aim to be your single-source provider for your system needs. Contact us today if you have questions about safety relief valve maintenance, or view our catalog to learn more about our product line.

4. Air Compressor Installation Guide

   August 8, 2023 6:24 am Comments Off on Air Compressor Installation Guide

   Air compressors are the central workhorses of compressed air systems, and it’s essential to select and install them correctly. In this air compressor installation guide, we’ll walk you through the process of purchasing and installing a high-quality air compressor. You’ll also get basic instructions for safe operation and maintenance, then learn how to expand your air compressor’s functionality and achieve maximum productivity.

   Air Compressor Installation Guide: Selecting the Right Air Compressor

   Determining Your Specific Needs

   To find the most suitable air compressor for your application, start by carefully determining your system and workflow requirements. Then, compare them with each air compressor’s specifications. Pay the closest attention to airflow, pressure, tank capacity, and power requirements, and ensure they align with your needs.

   Pre-Installation Preparations

   • Assess the installation location: Air compressors must have enough space for proper ventilation. Look at the air compressor’s manual for the exact dimensions required to maintain adequate airflow.
   • Check electrical requirements and gather tools: Note the device’s electrical requirements and gather the tools needed for installation.

   Air Compressor Installation Guide: Installation Process

   For safe and efficient operation, use the following steps as a guide to installing your air compressor:

   • Unpack the air compressor. Inspect it to ensure it isn’t damaged and it came with all necessary components.
   • Assemble the components in the proper sequence according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
   • Securely mount the compressor, heeding the pre installation considerations above (ventilation and electrical requirements).
   • Connect the air lines and fittings, ensuring they interface properly.
   • Install any regulators, filters, and lubricators. These are usually included. If not, you may need to order them from a compressed air specialist.
   • Check for any possible leaks and run a pressure test according to the manual’s instructions.

   Air Compressor Installation Guide: Electrical Connections

   Understanding Power Requirements

   Air compressors come in a range of power requirements. It’s critical to know and match these requirements with the electrical ratings of your workshop or facility. Never use air compressors with electrical systems that don’t meet the compressor’s electrical requirements.

   Wiring the Compressor to the Electrical Supply

   Wire the air compressor into a suitable electrical supply, following all safety precautions and ensuring the compressor is grounded properly.

   Air Compressor Installation Guide: Operating and Maintaining the Air Compressor

   Safety Guidelines and Precautions

   After testing your air compressor to confirm its basic function, pause and read the safety guidelines. For safe operation and maximum product longevity, the following are particularly important:

   • Power-on and -off cycles
   • Performing routine maintenance
   • Cleaning and replacing filters
   • Troubleshooting procedures

   Air Compressor Installation Guide: Compressor Accessories and Expansion

   Exploring Additional Accessories

   Expand your air compressor’s functionality with accessories built to the highest industry standards. Air compressor accessories and air tools can expand versatility, increase capacity, and maximize all-around workload efficiency. Examples include hoses, nozzles, pipes, fittings, air tools, etc.

   Air Compressor Installation Guide: Safety Considerations

   Guidelines for Safe Usage and Handling

   Keep your work area and employees safe by following all safety guidelines. Also, explain these precautions to all who might use the equipment, and always store and dispose of compressed air components properly. Finally, ensure you keep up with regular maintenance.

   Air Compressor Services from Compressed Air Systems

   If you follow this air compressor installation guide step by step, you’ll be fully prepared to install the most effective air compressor for your company’s needs. When properly installed and equipped with the right accessories, you’ll achieve maximum productivity and ease of use. Since 1963, Compressed Air Systems has continually optimized air compressor technologies and adapted them to our clients’ exact needs.

   From our 30,000 and 4,000-square-foot facilities in Tampa, Florida, we provide fast and reliable air compressor services for industries as broad as aerospace, medical, electronics, and food and beverage. If you have any questions about installing an air compressor or would like to request a quote, contact us, and tell our experienced staff about your compressed air system needs.

5. How to Reduce Pressure Drop in Your Industrial Compressed Air System

   March 14, 2023 11:37 am Comments Off on How to Reduce Pressure Drop in Your Industrial Compressed Air System

   Compressed air systems can develop instances of pressure drop throughout their lifespans, disrupting productivity and leading to inconsistent performance. However, with the right maintenance schedule, parts, and monitoring processes, businesses can minimize the risk of system pressure drop and reduce unscheduled downtime and performance inconsistencies. Learn more about the common causes of pressure drop, how your team or repair technicians can reduce pressure drop, and the benefits of a proactive approach.

   What Causes Pressure Drop?

   Maintaining a stable pressure level in a compressed air system requires an unobstructed closed loop or connective hose through which pressurized air can travel at a steady rate. Any changes to this environment, such as loose parts, obstructions within the system, and rough internal surfaces, can disrupt the flow of air. Disruptions to steady air compressor pressure come from two major categories:

   • Problems with air quality components which include air/lubricant separators, moisture separators, aftercooler components, filters, and dryers.
   • Problems with the distribution components, such as the tubing, couplings, hoses, pipes, or regulators.

   A pressure drop may register when the compressor delivers insufficient air because of blockage, leaks, or other interruptions. This lowers the pressure within the system, and the compressed air regulation systems respond accordingly. The pressure changes can also result in a lot of wasted energy; in fact, this energy waste increases exponentially as the pressure conditions exceed the recommended pressure levels. If technicians notice restricted air flow within the system or changes in pressure levels that the system must accommodate, it’s time for an inspection or maintenance.

   How to Reduce Pressure Drop

   While it’s impossible to eliminate pressure drop within an industrial compressed air system entirely, it is possible to significantly reduce the risk and severity of any pressure drops. Frequent inspections, ongoing monitoring, and preventative maintenance can help your facility catch problems early on and prevent them from growing too large. Follow these steps to reduce pressure drop:

   1. Inline Filtration

   An inline air compressor filter is a device that is installed in the air line between the compressor and the point of use. It is designed to remove contaminants, such as dirt, rust, and moisture, from the compressed air before it is used. This helps to protect the equipment and tools that use the compressed air, and can also help to improve the quality of the finished product. Inline air compressor filters typically use a filter element made of paper, metal mesh, or synthetic media to remove the contaminants. They are also made in different size and flow rate, depending on the compressor and the application.

   An inline air compressor filter can reduce pressure drop by using a filter element with a high dirt-holding capacity, a large filter surface area, and a low resistance to airflow. A high dirt-holding capacity means that the filter element can trap a large amount of contaminants before it becomes clogged, reducing the need for frequent filter replacement. A large filter surface area allows for more contaminants to be trapped, while also allowing for a higher airflow rate. A low resistance to airflow means that the filter element does not impede the flow of air too much, reducing the pressure drop across the filter. Changing the filter elements on a frequent basis will help keep the pressure drop low.

   2. Inspect the Tubing

   Tubing is a common source of problems that cause pressure drop. Loose fittings at the ends of the hoses, harsh bends in the hose, and even developing wear or holes can lead to pressure drop. The internal surface of the hose, especially if it’s rough or abraded, can interfere with pressure. Regularly check the tubing to ensure it’s airtight throughout its length and at any fittings. Look for cracks, detectable airflow, and rust formation (which can indicate developing damage and vulnerability).

   3. Check for Any Worn Hoses

   Examine hoses for leaks, especially developing leaks that may escape casual notice. Also, ensure hoses are arranged with as little external stress as possible.

   4. Consider the System Connections

   Connectors, valves, and other components should be tightly fit into place and in good condition without rust or cracks. Also, facilities with overly complex systems that have multiple connectors will benefit from a simplified system with fewer failure points.

   5. Check the Regulators

   The pressure regulators may be faulty and cause pressure drops without any damage to the actual system. Prevent air compressor regulator pressure drop by resetting the regulators and ensuring they’re taking accurate readings.

   6. Check the Lubricators

   It may be time to replace lubricators within the compressed air system to maintain the right flow rate.

   The Benefits of Reducing Pressure Drop

   Pressure drop poses a real risk of inhibiting high-quality performance and wasting a lot of energy. Consider these benefits of addressing and reducing pressure drop:

   Improve System Performance

   Boost your pneumatic system’s performance by stopping leaks and pressure drop. Your employees can use the compressed air system more efficiently, with fewer delays and errors. Completely addressing pressure drop issues can also reduce unscheduled downtime and costly parts replacement.

   Reduce Maintenance and Unscheduled Downtime

   Unplanned maintenance and repairs are expensive. Not only does your facility have to pay emergency rates, but you lose production hours. This can put you behind schedule or force you to pay SLA fees. But proactive monitoring and maintenance ensure you catch problems in a timely manner. The problems are smaller, less expensive to repair, and faster to resolve. Investing in newer or more resilient equipment can reduce downtime even more.

   Lower the Operating Costs

   Pressure drops, as well as the potential gaps and leaks causing the pressure drop, leads to higher operating costs and wasted energy. Addressing the problem reduces operating costs on a day-to-day basis. For every 2 PSIG pressure drop equals one percent less energy. Lowering your plant pressure 10 PSIG gives you a five percent energy savings.

   Reduce Facility Emissions

   Decreasing energy usage also has the broader effects of reducing your facility’s carbon footprint and energy waste. You will reduce your facility’s overall generation of greenhouse gases.

   Start Reducing Pressure Drop With Support From Compressed Air Systems

   Pressure drop is expensive, wasteful, and potentially damaging to your production levels. But resolving pressure drop with maintenance and monitoring is simple, cost-effective, and better for your company’s ESG goals. Turn to Compressed Air Systems for support in repairing, maintaining, and improving your compressed air systems. Contact us today for more information.

6. 5 Ways a Blower and Vacuum Pump Can Help With Your Production

   March 6, 2023 4:29 am Comments Off on 5 Ways a Blower and Vacuum Pump Can Help With Your Production

   Industrial blowers and vacuums help regulate airflow in warehouses, factories, and other production facilities. One common application of blowers and vacuums is cleaning—using air to remove debris, dirt, water, and other contaminants. They also remove stale and contaminated air from industrial settings. But compressed air blowers and vacuums can serve other purposes, too.

   Here are five ways a blower and vacuum can help with your production.

   Applications of Blowers and Vacuums

   Nitrogen Blanketing/Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)

   Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) technology helps extend the shelf life of fresh food. It involves removing the atmospheric air inside a package and replacing it with a protective gas mix. This gas—usually consisting of nitrogen—maximizes the freshness of the product.

   Though both MAP and vacuum packaging require compressed air and vacuum pumps, MAP differs because it doesn’t always have to remove oxygen from the packaging. Instead, MAP involves adjusting oxygen and carbon dioxide levels within the package to the required values. The vacuum pump makes the final seal to ensure the gases remain intact in the container.

   Filling and Closing Machines

   Vacuum systems have a pivotal role in the beverage industry. They help evacuate air and other contaminants to ensure consumers receive quality goods. Vacuuming also prolongs the shelf life of various products. Filling and closing machines use vacuum systems to seal:

   • Alcoholic drinks
   • Bottled water
   • Juices
   • Sports drinks
   • Nutritional supplements

   Bottle Filling

   The oxygen content in bottled beer must be kept low. That is why breweries employ different bottle-filling methods. They may flush the bottles with CO2 and fill them with beer using a long tube filler. However, this method uses a significant amount of CO2. Another method involves evacuating the bottles and flushing them with CO2, which minimizes CO2 consumption.

   Packaging

   Vacuum systems have a critical role in packaging. Generally, the pressure around a product has a mechanical impact on the product’s external shape. Therefore, the modified atmosphere packaging process is an ideal method across many applications, including food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics processing. By packaging products in a modified atmosphere and removing oxygen, MAP encloses the product in a blister package, places it in a vacuum chamber, and evacuates it. After injecting it with the modified atmosphere, the package is sealed with a protective film.

   Dairy Processing and Milking

   Yogurt-filling machines require a vacuum pump to position the lids on multiple pre-filled yogurt containers at once. The machines have suction cups that pick up the lids, separate them, and place them in the right positions.

   Milking systems have vacuums that attach to the cow udder and transport the milk. Compared to conventional oil-lubricated pumps, side channel blowers and liquid ring pumps do not use oil and thus have fewer maintenance needs. Side channel blowers in particular do not need water connections and are available with frequency converters.

   Get the Right Blower and Vacuum for Your Application

   Compressed air blowers and vacuum pumps are valuable devices that enhance or, in many cases, enable production. High-volume blowers and vacuum pumps are available in different varieties, so Compressed Air Systems is here to help you choose the right system(s) for your commercial or industrial application. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.

7. Air Compressor Oil Water Separators: A Guide

   December 6, 2022 10:28 am Comments Off on Air Compressor Oil Water Separators: A Guide

   Since 1963, Compressed Air Systems, Inc. has specialized in providing comprehensive, customized air compressor solutions for industries ranging from medical and pharmaceutical to electronics and aerospace. For your convenience, we have capabilities for in-house design consulting, equipment rentals, installations, and 24/7 maintenance services, with the goal of providing everything you need, be it a new turnkey system or repairs.

   Additionally, our extensive equipment offerings include blowers, vacuum systems, nitrogen and process chillers, air compressors, and air compressor oil-water separators. In this case study, learn more about oil-water separators, how they work, and why they’re a vital part of an air compressor system.

   What Is an Oil-Water Separator?

   An oil-water separator assists in pulling water out of compressed air. As compressed air releases from the compressor’s storage tank, it often contains moisture that then condenses to create droplets of water. The oil-water separator will effectively eliminate the water droplets, which prevents them from building up. This reduces the risk of compressor damage, equipment contamination, and corrosion when utilizing the compressed air. Essentially, oil-water separators effectively extend the life span of your equipment.

   Why Is There Water in the Compressor System?

   An air compressor inherently captures water when it draws in air saturated with environmental moisture. When the air compresses, that moisture condenses, producing water droplets. Using compressed air that still contains water can degrade your tools and cause operational issues, like diluting paint in paint-spraying projects, for example.

   What Is the Best Oil-Water Separator for Air Compressors?

   Our air compressor oil-water separators are capable of maintaining as much as 98% efficiency down to half of the rated flow capacity. With varying weights, sizes, and capacities to best fit your individual application, we offer an extensive line of moisture separators and oil-water separators.

   How Does an Oil-Water Separator for Air Compressors Work?

   Oil-water separators utilize a coalescing principle or centrifugal design to remove condensate from an air compressor. The airflow in coalescing separators moves from inside the filter element to the outside, removing water droplets through the filter cartridge. Centrifugal oil-water separators rely on rotary motion, pushing the air, water, and other particles like dust to accelerate radially outward and through a filter element like polyethylene. This allows the water and other particulates to externally drain and collect in a bowl.

   Where Do You Put the Oil-Water Separator on an Air Compressor?

   The proper installation location for the oil-water separator is downstream from the compressor on its discharge line, as near as possible to the compressor itself. The separator relies on gravity to drain the water into the compressor tank, so installing it high on the discharge line is ideal and will help prevent condensate from entering the airstream.

   How Does a Desiccant Air Dryer Work?”

   In addition to moisture separators, desiccant air dryers remove moisture from incoming air to improve compressor air quality. Desiccant air dryers, which are similar in design to water trap filters, rely on dual pressurized tanks and small desiccant beads to absorb water droplets from the air. They switch back and forth between drying and regeneration cycles. Pressurized air moves through the desiccant bead vessel to remove droplets until the air reaches the optimal dew point, at which time it releases. A heating process after that depressurization then eliminates moisture from the beads, and vessel repressurization occurs to prepare for the next drying cycle.

   How Do You Dispose of the Condensate/Water From an Air Compressor?

   Oil is a lubricant for a compressor’s internal components. Since 1972, the EPA has enforced regulations on air compressor condensate to reduce drinking water pollution. According to the EPA, wastewater from an air compressor should not exceed 40 parts per million of oil. Typical air compressor condensate contains oil at roughly 300 parts per million, so an oil-water separator is necessary to:

   • Meet EPA regulations for your facility
   • Avoid penalties
   • Prevent end-product contamination
   • Decrease environmental impact

   Air Compressor Oil-Water Separators From Compressed Air Systems

   Oil-water separators are important components for air compressors to not only safeguard your system but also to avoid contamination and EPA violations. Compressed Air Systems of Tampa, Florida, is backed by nearly 60 years of experience in delivering high-performance air compressor solutions, and our team is ready to help. For more information, you can contact us directly or read our guide on moisture content in compressed air.

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