Getting Rid of Moisture in Your Compressed Air System

Moisture is the most underestimated threat in compressed air systems. Most users focus on eliminating air leaks, pressure loss, and particle& oil contaminants.

Presence of moisture in your compressed air system has the following negative impacts

• Leads to rusting, corrosion and clogging of pipes
• Can cause wear and tear of the inner parts of your compressor system
• Can cause product contamination, increasing product rejects hence production costs. The presence of moisture in your air also supports the growth of bacteria which can jeopardize the product quality, especially food products.
• Can cause problems in the operation of pneumatic systems, solenoid valves and air motors and can adversely affect the production process?

You can eliminate moisture in your compressed air using the following three equipment:

i)?Dryer

Dryers remove moisture to a specified dew point temperature, which is the temperature above which the air cannot hold moisture

Refrigerant dryer, desiccant dryer or membrane dyer can be installed depending on the end use of your compressed air.

ii)?Filter

A coalescing filter installed within the compressor room removes dust and oil particles as well as any water aerosols and particles.

Point of use filters are used to remove water that has condensed downstream.

iii) Condensate Drains

Compressor room

Drain moisture from the compressor dryer, and receiver

Presence of condensate in receiver takes up the space for compressed air

Electronic zero air loss auto drains are recommended

Main header

Line condensate drains help to remove any condensate that is formed along the line during distribution.

They are Usually positioned at the lowest point along the piping

Reference

Compressed Air & Gas Institute, Why Do Compressed Air Systems Need Drying? ?https://www.airbestpractices.com/technology/air-treatment/n2/why-do-compressed-air-systems-need-drying