We all know that the filter plays a very critical role in air conditioning systems in our home, which can screen out pollutants, particulates and dust to ensure the quality of the indoor air. Especially in Egypt, which is characterized by hot summers with high humidity (as high as 80% in some areas) and frequent sandstorms during periods of seasonal change. A good filter can have a positive impact on the health of our entire family and protect AC units from harmful things in the air. The same principle applies to inline air filters which are part of compressed air systems and separate air particles from contaminant particles.
Compressed air filters play a vital role in upkeeping the quality and energy efficiency of your compressed air systems. Let's explore some essential aspects of when and why you should consider replacing these filters.
To achieve the stringent air quality levels required by both modern manufacturing industry and ISO8573-1: 2001, it is recommended to change your air filter elements every 6 months at the very minimum. In dirtier or more demanding environments such as cement industry applications, or areas with very high dust levels, filters may need to be changed more frequently.
In industries, it is advisable to replace the air compressor filter every year, or more frequently in heavily polluted environments like Egypt. Given the hot summers with high humidity and frequent sandstorms, it is recommended to replace the filter every 6 months or after approximately 4000 hours of operation.
The number of filter replacements depends on variables such as: air quality-supply and operating hours of the air compressor
Effects of an inefficient compressed air filter
Compressed air is full of particles, aerosols and oil vapors (in oil injected pistons and screws) that contaminate the compressed air and can cause potential harm to its end users and your end product. The particles, aerosols and oil vapors can also affect the smooth and efficient running of your air compressor system. Installing a high performing inline air filters can help you eliminate the unwanted particulates as well as aerosols and vapors and make your compressor installation energy efficient.
When to replace the compressed air filter
- Damaged filters: If you observe any signs of damage while cleaning the filters, it is advisable to consider replacing them.
- Old filters: If it's been a while since you last changed the filter, it may be time for a replacement.
- Poor performance: Even after cleaning, if your air filters are not performing well, it's a sign that they may need replacing.
- Pressure drop leading to energy loss in the compressed air system - It is commonly known that for every extra 1 bar generated in pressure, almost 7% increase in electricity consumption.
It’s hard to believe such a small part could make a big difference in compressed air quality, but it does. Often the compressor users focus on the cost of maintenance & replacement parts when in reality these costs are insignificant when compared to those associated with the end product spoilage or damaged equipment.
What would happen if you have an inefficient air filter?
- Damaged adsorption dryer beds requiring unplanned desiccant changes
- Corrosion within the compressed air storage and distribution system
- Blocked / frozen valves, air motors and pneumatic tools
- Damaged machinery causing increased production downtime
- Inefficient production processes leading to increased manufacturing costs
- Contamination exhausting from valves and cylinders leading to unhealthy working environments
- Spoiled, damaged and re-worked products resulted from the contaminants
- Dirty inline air filters obstruct the systems performance and force the system to exert more energy just to perform basic functions.
Hence, to maintain efficient operation of your compressed air system and achieve the stringent air quality levels required by your applications, the air filters need to be maintained and elements need to be replaced regularly.
