Selecting the best air compressor filter for your system is one of the best things you can do to preserve efficiency and prevent unnecessary wear on your equipment. Choosing one or more air compressor filters can be a challenging task. If you’re not sure where to start, consider the following factors as part of your decision:
Compressor Type
Every type of air compressor has its own set of fittings, filtration and other requirements you must take into account. The only way to narrow down your options for air filters is to refer to the manual and instructions for your system. If you no longer have the manual, it’s a good idea to consult a reputable company that can help you track down the specifications for your particular type and model of compressor.
Micron Rating
You want to find a good balance between filtration rating and service intervals. Finding the exact air quality requirements for your application allows you to select a filter that removes enough contaminants but doesn’t filter excess particulates. The smaller the particles a filter can trap, the smaller the holes in the filter. Smaller holes result in you having to replace the filter more often, as it becomes clogged more easily and more quickly.
For most industrial applications, general-purpose particulate filters are rated for either 40 or five microns. The required micron rating is determined by the compressor’s downstream components. Pneumatic tools and the majority of industrial equipment use 40-micron filtration, while more sensitive instruments or components use the five-micron option. There are also applications where 20, 25 or 75-micron filters are appropriate.
Using a five-micron filter when only a 40-micron filter is adequate will result in high pressure drops in the filter and shorten its lifespan, requiring you to spend more time and effort on maintenance and increasing the compressor’s consumption of energy.
Flow Capacity
Different applications demand different levels of airflow. Filters are available in a wide array of sizes, and you can find some rated for flows up to 1,000 standard cubic feet per minute. Once you know the flow required for your application, you can make the proper-sized selection by figuring out the maximum pressure drop allowable.
