Only regular periodic replacement of elements in compressed air filters guarantees the effect of clean, contamination-free air. In painting applications, plasma or laser cutting and other industrial processes, properly treated air is crucial. That is why we recommend regular inspection and replacement of filter elements to protect the pneumatic installation and compressed air receivers against all kinds of contaminants such as water condensate, oil or dust.
Compressed air filter elements are used to remove unwanted contaminants such as solid particles, water, oil, and odors, protecting pneumatic equipment and ensuring proper air quality. They are made of filtration materials placed in a housing, and their type (e.g., coalescing, carbon) depends on specific air purity requirements.
What are filter elements used for?
- Removal of solid contaminants: They prevent dust, dirt, and other solid particles from entering the pneumatic system.
- Condensate separation: Elements, especially coalescing ones, capture and remove water and oil mist, protecting sensitive components from corrosion and damage.
- Elimination of odors and oil vapors: Carbon filters, using activated carbon, absorb oil vapors and unwanted odors, which is crucial in applications requiring exceptional air purity.
- Protection of precision devices: Elements with very fine gradation (e.g., 0.01 microns) protect delicate and precise pneumatic components from fine contaminants.
How are elements constructed?
- Housing: This is the outer element in which the filtration material is placed.
- Filtration material: This is the actual filtering element, which can have various forms and compositions:
- Coalescing elements: Made of materials that absorb and collect oil and water particles, forming larger droplets that then drain away.
- Carbon elements: Contain activated carbon in granule form, which, due to its large surface area, adsorbs oil vapors and other substances.
- Universal elements: Can consist of various materials (e.g., paper, synthetic materials) designed for general air purification from typical contaminants.
When to replace?
Compressed air filter elements should be replaced according to the manufacturer's recommendations, but typically every 6 to 12 months or every 2-2.5 thousand hours of operation under standard conditions. The frequency of replacement depends on working conditions (e.g., high dust levels), the type of filter (e.g., carbon filters wear out faster), and the presence of modern indicators that monitor the degree of contamination of the element.
Factors affecting replacement frequency:
- Manufacturer's recommendations – this is the most important source of information, as each filter may have different specifications.
- Working conditions – in environments with high dust levels (e.g., cement, textile industry), elements will wear out faster.
- Filter type – carbon filters, which remove chemical contaminants, require more frequent replacement (e.g., every 3-6 months) due to decreasing adsorption capacity.
- Quality requirements of the application – high air purity standards may also require more frequent replacement of elements.
- Filter condition indicators – modern systems are equipped with pressure difference indicators or electronic sensors that inform about the need to replace the element.
Important notes:
Failing to replace filter elements on time shortens their lifespan and can lead to decreased compressor efficiency and increased energy costs, as greater air resistance increases consumption. Regular replacement of filters also protects the equipment to which compressed air is supplied.
