24 July 2023
Coalescing filters – cleaning up air for demanding applications
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
The air we breathe contains harmful particles for industrial applications. In addition, compressed air equipment can add oil vapors, particulates, and aerosols. These contaminants, while microscopic, can have a damaging, costly impact on sensitive equipment using compressed air. This is why it's important to incorporate air treatment methods, like a coalescing filter.
Particulates are tiny pieces of solid materials like dust, dirt, or small pieces of metal caused by pipe corrosion. They can damage the end product. Aerosols are small droplets of liquids in compressed air created from lubricants, such as oil. If not removed, they can harm products and people. Vapors consist of any liquids in the compressed air system. These include lubricants that become converted to gas.
Regardless of industry, air treatment is important. A coalescing filter is generally a sound choice. While some instances are less sensitive, like inflating a tire, you still don't want to impact the end product. Of course, with applications like food and beverage and medical, proper filtration and treatment is non-negotiable.
Watch this video to know more about the next generation of filtration solutions
Coalescing filters for high-quality compressed air
If high-quality, pure compressed air is required, you need a filtration system to eliminate particulates, aerosols, and vapors. Otherwise, the air can pollute the products it touches, and harm sensitive equipment.
The amount and type of filters needed depend on the application and quality of air required. One effective way to remove aerosols and particulates is by installing a coalescing filter. These filters produce cleaner and dryer compressed air by coalescing small droplets of liquid.
As these droplets increase in size, they fall from the filter and are caught in a moisture trap with baffle fibers. As a word of caution, not all filters remove all contaminants. For example, coalescing filters alone are not effective in eliminating vapors. The efficiency of coalescence depends on the filtration media.
That said, if you're looking to remove particulates and aerosols, they are often the right choice. This is true of the innovative UD+ coalescing filter from Atlas Copco, which comes with many benefits.
UD+ coalescing filter: two-in-one
This unique system combines filtration steps offered by Atlas Copco's DD+ and PD+ filters. Thanks to its design and media used, a UD+ filter achieves an air purity equal to that of two conventional filters.
Not only does it meet the air quality standards of many applications, it saves money. The unique Nautilus filter technology has a pressure drop that is 40% lower than that of a conventional filter. This, in turn, results in a higher energy efficiency of 40%.
Also, since two filtration concepts are combined into one filter, it reduces the required installation space. This makes UD+ oil coalescing filters ideal for applications in tight spaces. While improving efficiency, these coalescing filters can improve the quality of end products.
Ask an air system professional about the best solution for your needs.
If you need help deciding on the right air treatment system for your needs our team is happy to help. Feel free to get in touch today. We're available to answer any questions you have regarding coalescing filters, dryers, and other equipment.
It's important to protect both your equipment and end users from harmful contaminants found in compressed air water vapor. Let us point you in the right direction.
Filters play a crucial role in the proper treatment of compressed air. In this interactive e-book on compressed air filters you will learn everything on contaminants and which filters offer you optimal protection.
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