The Importance of Air Preparation Equipment

Air preparation equipment is an important component of any pneumatic system. It provides clean, dry air for the machines to operate at peak performance. Without it, a machine can become damaged or a pressure drop can occur. Investing in proper air prep can improve the service life of a pneumatic system and reduce maintenance costs.

Air prep equipment includes a variety of components that work together to ensure the best possible air quality. These products are designed to remove moisture, solid particulates and oil. It is important to select an air prep system that is sized and installed properly. It also helps to consider how the air prep units are disconnected.

A lubricator adds a fine mist of oil to the air stream. This increases the life of moving parts in a pneumatic system. It also helps to minimize static friction. Typically, a lubricator is installed upstream of a pneumatic device that requires lubrication.

In addition to lubrication, air preparation equipment is designed to maintain a steady supply of clean, dry compressed air. This ensures that the entire pneumatic system operates at optimal pressure and minimizes energy wastage. It also promotes a long lifespan for the pneumatic system.

An air filter or a regulator is also a necessary component of a pneumatic system. It can be used to separate contaminants from the air, thereby preventing damage to the downstream components.

Another type of device is an air cooler, which is designed to cool compressed air at a high temperature. Its benefits include freeing the compressor from the need to use cooling equipment. It can also remove water from the compressed air. It is a great option for marine applications. Its optional dust-protecting filter can help to protect the compressor from contaminants.

Another option is an air-cooled aftercooler, which uses a built-in drain separator to prevent freezing. It can be used to remove large quantities of moisture from the air. This makes it an ideal solution for applications where there is a significant amount of water present. It is also available in several different designs.

When selecting an air prep system, make sure that it is compatible with the piping and tubing in your system. In addition, a specialized valve is often needed to attach the unit. Depending on your application, the pressure may range from 20 psi to 130 psi. The minimum operating pressure for the system may be as low as 15 psi.

A complete air prep unit is a combination of a filter, a regulator, a manual shut off and a soft start/dump valve. This reduces the amount of design work involved and the weight of the individual components. It may also save space, which can lower overall costs.

Depending on the specific needs of your application, a single unit or a multi-component air prep system is a viable option. However, a combination of all three can be a cost-effective way to optimize your system's efficiency.

For additional options, choose from membrane air dryers, filter cartridge assemblies, lubricators, and other types of air preparation equipment. It is also possible to purchase modular units that allow for easy installation.
Air Preparation-AC8000-15