A Guide to Air Preparation in Pneumatic Systems

What is the meaning of air preparation in pneumatic systems? Air preparation refers to treating compressed air to remove oil, water, and particles from the air stream that could damage downstream components. There must be a steady supply of clean, dry air to protect pneumatic components. This ensures that the components are working correctly and efficiently. Preparing the air before it is used will provide a longer service life for the pneumatic machine and give it the best possible protection.

Read more of our helpful guide to find out everything you need to know about air preparation in pneumatic systems.

Air Preparation products and components

There are a variety of products and components for air preparation systems. Typically, air preparation in pneumatic systems includes filters, regulators, and lubricators. These can be specified as a configured 3-piece unit, known as an FRL Unit, designed to deliver accurate pressure regulation, high moisture removal efficiency, and proportional oil delivery over various air flows. These types of combinations not only save pneumatic panel space but can also be cost-effective.

Mindman air preparation components come in all sizes and combinations of filters, lubricators, and regulators. Depending on the requirements of the pneumatic machinery, the components will differ.

Pressure regulation and filtration components can be fitted at the point of use for operator air tools and where automation circuits connect to the air distribution network. Reducing the pressure using a pressure or filter regulator allows the downstream circuit to operate at the optimum pressure without increasing the risk of leakage loss.

Proper design, implementation, and maintenance can lead to an efficient and trouble-free air preparation system.

Filters

Compressed air filters should receive the air supply first and work to reduce the contaminants and moisture in the compressed air of the machine. Filters are available in various sizes depending on the application’s needs, with standard filters that remove particulates of around 40µm. Finer filters can remove particulates as small as 5µm or less. Process instrumentation and high-speed pneumatic tools require finer particulate filtration.

Filters require preventive maintenance to maintain high efficiency and effective filtration. The main area of maintenance for a filter is the filter bowl, where all the collected pollutants are stored.

Regulators

After the air has passed through the filtration system, a pressure regulator will take the clean, dry air and control the pressure downstream. A pneumatic valve can be turned to determine the pressure when operating a regulator. Turning the valve clockwise will create greater pressure to pass through.

Filter-regulator combinations have all the capabilities of separate filters and regulators but save significant space and cost.

Lubricators

A lubricator can be added to the system to provide downstream pneumatic components with a constant supply of oil lubrication. It does this by introducing a small amount of oil to the compressed air stream. The oil is then dissolved and transported by the air stream, in the form of fog, to the point of use. It guarantees the best lubrication of components, keeping the machine at its most efficient for longer.

Lubricators are available in various sizes to match other air preparation products and components. However, some modern pneumatic machines do not require lubrication because they are pre-lubricated.

Find Your Air Preparation Solution with Matara

In summary, what is the meaning of air preparation in pneumatic systems? It’s the essential process of treating compressed air to ensure optimal performance, efficiency, and longevity of your pneumatic components. With Matara’s air preparation solutions, you can prevent damage, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance overall system reliability. Boasting an impressive selection of air preparation solutions in a wide range of sizes, types, and combinations of components, as well as a great range of functionalities, you can be confident that you’ll find what you’re looking for with us.

For any more information or assistance with air preparation products, don’t hesitate to contact us and check out our technical articles and case studies for all the information you need on a range of pneumatic solutions.