Compressed Air Facts

THE #1 RULE OF COMPRESSED AIR

For every 20 degrees that compressed air is cooled, the air loses 50% of its ability to hold moisture (humidity) in vapor form, which is then dropped out as a liquid.

Air Drying and Air Filtration…. There is a Difference!

Air Drying – The removal of water vapor (humidity) from compressed air is accomplished in one of three ways:

• Desiccant (molecular sieve, activated alumina, silica gel)
• Membrane
• Refrigeration

When to use compressed air dryers
Air dryers should be used when you want to remove or reduce the humidity levels in your compressed air system to meet manufacturer requirements for paint systems.

Air Filtration – The removal of particulates, water, oil droplets, and oil aerosols.
This is most effective when done in stages:

• Water separator – removes bulk water, oil, and large particulates (Down to 10 micron)
• Coalescing filter – removes oil, small aerosols and fine particulates (Down to .01 micron)
• Activated carbon filter – removes oil vapors; eliminates odors and taste (Down to .003 ppm)

Where to place compressed air filtration

• The further away from the compressor, the more effective your filtration will work
• Inside or near the spray booth, directly connected to your spray hose
• In front of all air dryers as pre-filters
• Water separators should be placed at all air tool drops with regulators