Air Compressor Filters

A compressed air filter is a specially designed filter made for air compressors. These pneumatic devices play a vital role in many industry sectors, with power converted into potential energy and stored as pressurised air. To work correctly, air compressors require filters.

Depending on the equipment and process requirements, these filters are placed before or after the compression unit, the dryer, or the point of use. The filter then improves the air quality by removing harmful contaminants.

There are many types of air compressor filters, including dry particulate filters, coalescing filters, and oil vapour removal filters. Dry particulate filters remove desiccant particles after an absorption air dryer, with a membrane material used to remove dust and prevent clogs.

Coalescing filters are designed to separate and capture oil, aerosols, and moisture droplets. Vapour removal filters help to remove gaseous lubricants, with activated charcoal often chosen as the filtering material.

When choosing a compressed air filter for your business, there are lots of things to consider. First and foremost, you need to select a filter that's appropriate for your equipment. At Cleveland Compressors, we review your intended application to help you find the perfect filter. It's important to choose a filter based on the micron rating, with 0.01-micron filters designed to deal with extremely small particles and 1-micron filters dealing with larger liquids and oil particles.

Air compressor filters need to be changed regularly. While the exact timing of these changes depends on the compressor design, filter technology and frequency of use, the industry-standard replacement timing is roughly once per year or every 8,000 hours of operation for coalescing and particulate filters. However, some variables may affect this schedule, including improperly sized filtration, high oil carryover, and increased particulate matter. Oil Vapour removal filters and breathing air filters need changing more often to be effective and compliant.

A well-designed, properly installed, and regularly replaced air filter offers numerous benefits. This simple equipment helps to improve productivity, protect expensive equipment, and ensure the flow of clean and contaminant-free air. When small particles are effectively removed from the compression airflow, equipment is more likely to work correctly, less likely to break down, and more cost-effective to operate.

Neglecting air filter maintenance can reduce compressor lifespan, frequent breakdowns, higher energy costs, and inconsistent air quality. Over time, these issues can disrupt operations and increase overall costs.

Dirty air filters restrict airflow, causing air compressors to work harder to maintain performance. This increased strain can lead to overheating, reduced efficiency, and premature wear on components as well as pressure reduction, leading to production problems.