Why Air Quality Counts

There are three key ways of transmitting power to production machinery in most industries. Electricity, fluid (hydraulics) and air (pneumatics). Each have their own requirements to ensure that the machinery they operate works smoothly and continuously. Electric current needs to be smoothed for many critical computer systems. Hydraulic fluid needs to be filtered and cleaned to prevent wear on components, and air needs to be kept free of contamination to avoid damage to machinery and to ensure unwanted material does not come into contact with the final product.

Typically, there are three primary enemies of machinery components in a compressed air system: moisture, oil, and particulates. In the demand side of the system, moisture causes corrosion which can in time give rise to particles that can clog valves, score cylinders, or obstruct other key components. We have assumed that on the supply side one of Harrier Pneumatics’ range of compressed air dryers has been specified. Dust and other particulates (including oil as droplets) can find its way through a system that is not properly maintained and may contaminate the end product. This a particular problem in the food and pharmaceuticals industries where stringent hygiene standards are required in production.

We mentioned air dryers above as one way of managing supply side air quality. Harrier’s range of air treatment filters will efficiently remove oil, water, and other dirt particles, delivering only clean, dry air at the point of use. When considering upgrade or renewal of your compressed air specifying an oil-free compressor will exclude one possible source of contaminants. The main way of achieving peace of mind is of course regular servicing and maintenance of the system which will give advance warning of component degradation and monitor air quality levels so that problems are averted rather than rectified.

We discussed the main air quality standards in an earlier blog. Harrier Pneumatics remain committed to a comprehensive set of air quality testing services, including the specialist tests required for breathing air. Our engineers can work with you to install the necessary equipment to help you ensure compliance with your particular industry’s regulations and put in place a regime of regular ongoing testing. In the meantime, please get in touch with us to learn how we can help you ensure your compressed air quality.

Categorised in: Air Audits

This post was written by Harrier Pneumatics