Simple compressed air installations consist of a compressor, interconnecting piping and air consuming equipment. This combination of air using equipment will always be prone to the condensation of water vapour from the air in both the compressor and the downstream pipes. This type of compressed air installation may be adequate for small factory operations but cannot satisfy the quality needs of appropriate compressed air. If compressed air is dried by just cooling and not by adsorption, this will cause water vapour to condense out into liquid water, which at temperatures below 0°C, will lead to the freezing of compressed air lines. If the pipe cross-section is large, layers of ice will, in the first instance, form on the inner pipe walls. These will become progressively thicker and constrict the pipe cross-section. Smaller diameter tubing will freeze completely. As soon as thaw sets in, the layers of ice will become detached and may cause blockages, interrupting the compressed air supply.

In order to prevent the flooding of the distribution piping by condensed water or ice, condensate separators need tot be installed in the system at suitable points. In winter, additional trace heating of the separators may be necessary. It’s important that the piping should always be installed during compressed air installation with a downward gradient towards the drainage points. We will be happy to give you any advise regarding compressed air installation in your premises. Feel free to contact us at any time.