moisture-oil separator for compressor which one to choose

Oil separators are recommended for systems:

• working at low temperatures;
• with immiscible refrigerants;
• with evaporators that do not return oil - flooded evaporators;
• with oil bypass lines;
• with variable performance;
• with a long vertical suction or discharge pipeline.

Although properly installed oil separators are usually very good at separating oil from refrigerant vapor, they are not 100% effective. Therefore, it is necessary to provide some additional means of removing the small amounts of oil that pass through the separator to other parts of the system.

The design of oil separators in the discharge pipeline is shown in Figure 24.1. The large diameter pipe is equipped with parallel screens and perforated partitions. Refrigerant vapor with lubricant flows from the smaller diameter discharge pipe into the oil separator, as a result of which the vapor velocity decreases. The oil droplets have more kinetic energy and therefore continue to move towards the partition at a higher speed. Since heavy drops cannot quickly change direction and pass through the separator, they settle on the surface of the partitions, and steam passes through the holes. The droplets collect and flow into the base of the oil separator and then back into the compressor through the float control and pipe. Other oil separator designs use centrifugal force, reducing the velocity of steam, and changing the direction of steam to separate the oil. Each device is also based on the difference in kinetic energy between oil and steam.

When using an oil separator in the system, it is important to limit liquid refrigerant from entering the crankcase when the compressor is off. Refrigerant may condense in the oil separator if it is colder there than in the compressor or connecting piping. The liquid level in the separator will rise and open the float control, allowing the mixture of oil and liquid refrigerant to enter the compressor crankcase. To minimize condensation of refrigerant vapor in the separator when the compressor is turned off, it must be installed near the compressor in a warm place. The separator must be well insulated to reduce heat transfer to the environment when the compressor is turned off. To further reduce the possibility of liquid refrigerant from the separator entering the crankcase, the oil return line should be connected to the compressor inlet rather than the crankcase. Thanks to the passages in the compressor, the liquid refrigerant will evaporate rather than mix with the oil in the crankcase.

The oil return line must be equipped with a solenoid valve, sight glass, manual control valve and manual stop valve as shown in Fig. 23.15 in the previous chapter. Determining the oil level through the sight glass, the manual control valve is turned so that the liquid mixture from the oil separator slowly flows into the inlet while the compressor is running. The solenoid valve is connected to the compressor motor starter so that the valve is open only when the compressor is running. This prevents liquid from flowing from the separator into the compressor when the compressor is off, but allows the flow and evaporation of refrigerant into the inlet to be controlled when the compressor is on.

Compressed air filter or moisture-oil separator for spray booth

The topic of moisture-oil separators is technically complex with a bunch of terms, each of which needs to be deciphered.
If we cram all this into our article, then most of you will simply skim the article and move on, what is called surfing the Internet. But nevertheless, this topic is important and we will try to briefly and informatively understand moisture-oil separators, because it is important for a painter to have basic knowledge about this device.

A moisture-oil separator is a unit for cleaning and filtering compressed air, consisting of:

Moisture is contained in the air that enters the compressor from the atmosphere. When air is compressed in a compressor, it heats up, and then, as it moves through pipelines, it cools and condensation can be released from it.

Oil enters the air supply system thanks to the oil that is used to lubricate the compressor parts.

Impurities contained in the air supplied to the spray gun, at certain concentrations, can affect the quality of the resulting paint coating, for example, reduce gloss, hardness and adhesion, increase the porosity of the film, etc., read our articles on painting defects.

Moisture separator or filter regulator

The filter removes mechanical impurities and contaminants with particle sizes of 50, 20 or 5 microns, which are retained by a special filter element.

Coarse filter

Coarse filters retain and filter large particles; depending on the model of the oil and water separator, they retain particles ranging in size from 40 microns to 10 microns. Most often used for impact wrenches, pneumatic ratchets, pneumatic chisels, and so on.

Fine filter

Fine filters retain and filter small particles from 5 microns to 0.01 microns.

Air dehumidifiers for compressors with fine filters are used for paint guns.

Now filters are made of synthetic fiber with bronze inclusions, which allows them to be cleaned and reused. Expensive models of moisture-oil separators definitely have such filters, but cheaper ones have a simpler design.

The air flow enters the device and, rotating around the central axis, is thrown towards the walls of the container. In this case, moisture condenses on the surface and flows to the bottom, from where it is removed through the outlet, and the air flow goes outside.

Oil separator

The smaller the filtration size, the faster the filter becomes dirty. In addition, with such filtration, the pressure of compressed air decreases when passing through the oil and water separator.

Cyclonic oil separators

Operating principle. When entering the oil separator, refrigerant vapors with oil droplets enter the spiral part of the device. The flow moves in a spiral and, due to centrifugal force, oil droplets are deposited on the inner surface of the walls of the oil separator. The oil flows down the walls into the lower part of the apparatus, separated from the main part by a special oil separator, which prevents re-absorption of oil. At the bottom of the oil separator is a float mechanism with a needle valve that returns oil back to the compressor.

Read also: How to adjust a laser level for accuracy

The oil separator and sump design prevents oil from escaping when the refrigeration compressor starts.

To separate oil from refrigerant, various types of oil separators , the efficiency of which depends on the conditions of their use. For example, the degree of oil separation in devices increases with decreasing temperature of the steam entering the oil separator. Oil separators with a filter attachment provide a greater degree of separation with a smaller proportion of oil in the refrigerant vapor entering the device. Bubble oil separators operate with a nominal separation degree if the height of the bubble layer in the apparatus is at least 0.12 m, and the separated oil is continuously removed from the apparatus.

Painting work in a garage or outdoors is simplified if you use a spray gun powered by a compressor. The method has one significant drawback: the air pumped by the compressor has quite high humidity, which will negatively affect the quality of painting. A special moisture separator for the compressor is responsible for removing moisture from the air flow. Is it worth buying it or can you make it yourself? Let's figure it out!

Examples of professional moisture-oil separators for painting booths

There are many different models of oil and moisture separators available for cleaning the supplied air, both for industrial use and, as they say, for garage use.

Let's start the review with the most expensive professional systems for a spray booth with two or three blocks that purify the air, one might say, of everything, with several fittings, and you will not have problems when painting and will be able to connect several spray guns to one moisture-oil separator at once.

The cost of such branded moisture-oil separators, for example from DeVilbiss, is significant and amounts to about 30-50,000 rubles.

The two-stage filter with pressure regulator DeVilbiss DVFR-2 has a high degree of air purification up to 0.01 microns.

The throughput capacity of 3500 l/min allows it to be used for work in small production. The presence of three outlet fittings with adjusting ball valves makes it possible to connect up to three devices simultaneously.

The filter is made of solvent-resistant materials. The modern high-tech moving diaphragm design responds quickly and flexibly to air supply and provides precise control.

The characteristics of the filter correspond to the DeVilbiss DVFR-2 filter, but it has added a third stage of purification using an activated carbon filter, which even allows you to connect respiratory protection equipment with forced breathing air to it.

It is unlikely, of course, that you will buy such a filter, because the specified degree of purification of the supplied air for painting is already excessive.

Types and types of moisture separators

Before installing a dehumidifier on the compressor, you need to decide on its type and make sure it is compatible with the model of equipment you are using. The necessary information can be found in the technical documentation. Most often, additional equipment can be installed both before and after the receiver. Be sure to make sure that the power of the dehumidifier will be sufficient to work with the compressor of this model. Upon completion of installation work, it is necessary to check the serviceability of each element of the system and the reliability of all connections. How to properly install a moisture separator on a compressor is also described in the equipment instructions.

There are several types of dehumidifiers:

• Cyclonic;
• Silica gel based;
• Refrigeration type.

Cyclone-type water separators operate on the following principle. The air flow from the compressor, getting inside, swirls along the walls of the device. This helps separate moisture from the air. The condensate flows into a special compartment with a system that blocks the possibility of liquid getting back. Such systems provide the possibility of periodically draining accumulated condensate.

Another type of dehumidifier, based on silica gel, works on a different principle. It is based on the ability of this substance to absorb moisture. Before installing a dehumidifier on the compressor, make sure that this type of accessory can be used with this model of installation. To prepare the dehumidifier for operation, silica gel is poured into it. The greatest effect can be achieved when the design of the device assumes that air will pass through it, overcoming the entire layer of silica gel along the way.

Another type of dehumidifier that you can find on the market is based on the operating principle of a refrigerator. The compressed air is passed through a cooling unit, which dries it, freeing it from condensation. This is the most effective air purification system, but also more expensive in comparison with others described above.

Examples of budget options for moisture-oil separators

This is an example of the simplest and cheapest filter, which is attached directly to the handle of the spray gun, which is hardly suitable for professional production line production, but for domestic use it is the best, and the price is only about 300-500 rubles, which is called feel the difference.

Yes, this is also an air preparation unit for a spray gun, but only a budget one at a cost of 1200-1500 rubles in total. It combines the functions of both an air filter and a reducer with a pressure gauge and a separator, perfect for a small workshop.

Source

What is the device and what is it used for?

Water separators differ in their design and operating principle. The cost of the factory model is considerable, it depends on the power of the device and its performance. There are also several homemade schemes that will help you make a reliable and effective dehumidifier at home.

To remove moisture from the compressor, you can use low temperature, centrifugal force or special filters. The main task is to remove excess moisture before the air mixture enters the compressor. To create such a device, it is necessary to strictly follow the instructions of experienced mechanics and assemble the parts in accordance with the instructions.

TOP 9 compressor filters for car painting

One of the most important parameters of any type of compressor is operating pressure. In the Chinese filter ECO AU-02-14, the air compression level does not need to be maintained manually by observing the pressure gauge readings. This function in the device is performed by an automation unit - a pressure regulator. It can be pumped in a compressor with an ECO AU-02-14 air filter: the maximum value is 15 atm, the optimal operating value is up to 10 atm.

Cars are painted using compressors. The devices suck air from the environment, compress it and release it into the pneumatic line. Uniform, blemish-free body coloring depends on the cleanliness of the air outlet. As protection against dust, moisture, oil, and soot particles, the design provides a compressor filter for car painting. The variety of cleaning elements for screw and piston devices causes confusion among buyers. Based on technical characteristics and user reviews, the TOP 9 best components for automotive painting equipment have been compiled.

Advantage and importance of application

Moisture present in the air almost always has a detrimental effect on both the equipment and the processes that are carried out with its help. First of all, the compressor itself suffers, inside which the steam can partially turn into condensate, that is, liquid water. Water is known to promote the corrosion process.

The same can be said about all kinds of open pneumatic systems - for example, in trucks, into which the compressor periodically pumps air taken from the outside.

Water separator from Geyser filter

If a compressor is used to paint a car, then if there is moisture in the air, the coating will be of lower quality (so-called craters are formed), and the vehicle body may corrode.

By using a dehumidifier, it is possible to significantly dry the air entering the compressor, which means that all of the above phenomena can be avoided.

If you want to save on heating, install a battery tank. Accumulator tank in a heating system - advantages and disadvantages.

Read about the features of assembling and installing a chimney for a fireplace here.

Step-by-step instructions for making a bio-fireplace are presented in this topic.

Water separator Pegas AFRL802 8 atm

Water separator Pegas AFRL802 8 atm

Removable cartridges of the Pegas AFRL802 dehumidifier collect dust, metal particles, and water droplets, ensuring air purity acceptable according to the ISO 8573-1 standard.

The device is equipped with a built-in pressure gauge, which shows the air pressure supplied to the lines.

Product price – from 1700 rubles.

Filter Wester 816-002 10 atm, 1/4F, 1/4F

To spray paint well with a gun, you need a lot of clean air - at least 200-400 liters per minute. Modern compressors are able to create the required pressure to satisfy such needs. But microparticles of atmospheric dirt and moisture will not allow high-quality painting of metal parts of machines.

Filter Wester 816-002 10 atm, 1/4F, 1/4F

An excellent embodiment of engineering comes to the rescue - a filter for a compressor for painting cars Wester 816-002. The device effectively cleans compressed air from mineral oils, water droplets, and suspended particles. At the same time, it not only shows the working pressure, but also allows adjustment to be made according to the needs of the master.

In addition to the air filter and gearbox with a built-in pressure gauge, the package includes a separator and equipment for supplying liquid lubricant - a lubricator.

Filter price – from 2500 rub.

How to install a dehumidifier on a compressor

StarKraft company offers a wide range of compressors and additional equipment, provides installation, configuration and maintenance services for operating units. Right now you can buy a compressor, use the qualified help of our consultants, or call a specialist to carry out commissioning or maintenance. Experienced employees of our company will also tell you how to properly install a dehumidifier on a compressor and what it is needed for.

A moisture separator is an additional piece of equipment whose task is to improve the quality of the air flow at the outlet of the compressor unit. This is achieved by a simple method - removing atmospheric moisture from it.

Filter Wester 816-003 10 atm, 1/4F, 1/4F

The most important component of car painting equipment is the Wester 816-003 filter. If the compressed air that enters the spray gun contains dirt from the surrounding atmosphere, the painting job will be ruined.

Filter Wester 816-003 10 atm, 1/4F, 1/4F

A barrier to the path of oil products, dust, fluff, and moisture is the Wester 816-003 filter. The device consists of a metal body and a porous bronze bushing - a filter element. The design is easy to disassemble, the reusable moisture separator is washed and installed in place.

The device kit includes:

Product price – from 1660 rubles.

Compressor oil separator - gas purification system from oil

Home page » Compressor oil separator - system for purifying gas from oil

Compressor units of various designs, designed to work with different media, are widely used in practice. Compressors provide the necessary technological conditions for the productive use of the gas environment. For example, compressed air is actively used by car services, factories, and small businesses. Even in everyday life there is a need for compressed air. But compressor units have one serious drawback - oil carryover from the system. Therefore, the compressor oil separator is an integral element of the design of such machines. Let's take a look at this device.

Oil and water separator filter PATRIOT F 100 mini

The PATRIOT F 100 mini filter works in combination with a compressor and a pneumatic tool and a spray gun.

Oil and water separator filter PATRIOT F 100 mini

The weight of a miniature device with an oil and moisture separation function is just over 100 g. At the same time, the filter pressure on the compressor for painting a car is 8 bar. The compact device regulates pressure and is capable of passing and effectively purifying 700 liters of air per minute. Degree of purification – 40 microns.

High performance indicators, standard threaded connection (1/4 inch), low price (from 370 rubles) made PATRIOT F 100 mini an indispensable assistant in painting work.

Advantages of cyclone type filters

Water separators greatly simplify the operation of an air gun and compressor. They ensure stable operation of the equipment. The following advantages of cyclone type filters can be highlighted:

• simple design;
• reasonable cost;
• maximum efficiency;
• retention of large condensate particles;
• simple maintenance;
• regeneration and complete restoration of original properties;
• providing preliminary rough cleaning.

Dehumidifiers for compressors and air guns are an effective tool, without which it is impossible to imagine the operation of this equipment. They qualitatively prepare compressed air for further use. Filters separate primary moisture, oil particles, as well as contaminants of various fractions and other solid particles. Any pneumatic network must be equipped with a moisture separator that will clean the air for further use.

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Filter-moisture separator for compressors “Russian Master” AFR80 PM-14917

The filter device is located on the compressor-paint spray gun line. The Russian Master AFR80 PM-14917 device captures particles of dust, soot, and mineral oils with a size of 20 microns or more. This function lies on a removable filter element made of highly porous bronze.

The compressor filter for painting a car has a valve in its design, where a pressure regulator operating in automatic mode and a pressure gauge are located. The latter shows stable pressure in the line in two units of measurement - atmospheres and PSI.

The device was developed and manufactured using the most advanced technologies. Advantages of the “Russian Master” AFR80 PM-14917 dehumidifier, noted by users:

No deficiencies found.

Filter-oil-moisture separator WIEDERKRAFT WDK-7840

To organize the efficient operation of pneumatic tools in the painting business, the WIEDERKRAFT WDK-7840 device is used. A chamber with dimensions of 213x87x81 mm and weighing 610 g purifies the surrounding air from dust, moisture, oil compounds, and other impurities.

Filter-oil-moisture separator WIEDERKRAFT WDK-7840

The WIEDERKRAFT WDK-7840 filter is used in piston and rotary (screw) compressors. In these systems, when compressing air, it is necessary to supply oil and mix it with air, so the installation is equipped with a lubricator. If at this moment the air is not cleared of moisture (the main enemy of paint):

Main technical characteristics:

The cost of the goods is from 2500 rubles.

Air filter ECO AU-02-14 with pressure regulator and oil sprayer (1/4″, 1750 l/min)

Air filter ECO AU-02-14 with pressure regulator and oil sprayer (1/4″, 1750 l/min)

The paint sprayer is supplied with not only clean air, but also oil-enriched air through the built-in lubricator sprayer. The latter in the ECO AU-02-14 device has an autonomous design. This is an oil reservoir with a metal body, which is placed on the inlet part of the pneumatic equipment and secured with a 1/4″ threaded connection. Structurally, the sprayer is located after the filter, where drying occurs - separating moisture from the air. The type of oil recommended by the manufacturer is ISO VG 32.

One of the most important parameters of any type of compressor is operating pressure. In the Chinese filter ECO AU-02-14, the air compression level does not need to be maintained manually by observing the pressure gauge readings. This function in the device is performed by an automation unit - a pressure regulator. It can be pumped in a compressor with an ECO AU-02-14 air filter: the maximum value is 15 atm, the optimal operating value is up to 10 atm.

Basic technical data:

Product price – from 1750 rubles.

Oil separator functions

The main function of an oil separator is to remove oil from the high pressure refrigerant vapor stream in the discharge line and return it to the compressor. The oil separator prevents increased oil carryover from the compressor crankcase and increases system efficiency by reducing the rate of oil circulation in the refrigeration circuit.

Oil can be returned to the compressor directly (single-compressor units) or through an oil sump-oil level regulator system (multi-compressor units).

Oil separators of different manufacturers and series can differ significantly from each other in internal design and have different oil separation efficiency. In addition, oil separators are produced both sealed and collapsible.

Licota PAP-C207B Fine filter-moisture-oil separator 3/8″ 3-level, 0.01 micron

The design of the moisture-oil separator filter consists of 3 series-connected metal modules with a volume of 80 cm 3 and a 3/8-inch internal thread. The highest level of air purification before entering the pneumatic lines occurs in products - 99.9%.

Licota PAP-C207B Fine filter-moisture-oil separator 3/8″ 3-level, 0.01 micron

Compressed air passes through the adsorbent substances of all three modules, hence the high degree of purification, inaccessible to standard filters:

The device weighs 2.6 kg and includes an automatic pressure regulator. Moisture falling from the air is released automatically: a breather is provided for this.

The compressor filter for car painting is protected from damage by contaminants. The threat will be signaled by the pink-colored granules of the 3rd flask. In this case, the central indicator scale will turn red.

The product costs from 2500 rubles.

Filter-oil-moisture separator WIEDERKRAFT WDK-7730

The WIEDERKRAFT WDK-7730 model works in tandem with pneumatic tools, dehumidifying and purifying the air before supplying it to the painting booths. Cosmetic body repairs using compressors with WDK-7730 can be done in a garage with your own hands or using professional equipment in auto repair shops and service stations.

Filter-oil-moisture separator WIEDERKRAFT WDK-7730

The filter cartridge is easy to replace by disassembling the structure. The WIEDERKRAFT WDK-7730 device captures pollution particles measuring 5 microns, but smaller fractions are optionally available - 0.3 microns, 0.01 microns.

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Purpose of a moisture separator in compressors

To organize the correct operation of a pneumatic tool, a very important indicator is the purity of the compressed air that is supplied to it. First of all, it must be cleaned of dust. To clean mechanical contaminants, an air filter is used, installed at the inlet of the unit. It is also necessary to remove moisture from the air masses, which, when compressed, condenses in the receiver and in the system itself. To remove moisture, an air dryer is installed at the compressor outlet . In addition to moisture, compressed air may contain oil particles, which inevitably fall into it.

On a note! Mixing oil with air during its compression is typical for air piston and rotary (screw) compressors, since the operation of these units requires the presence of lubrication.

If the air is not cleared of moisture, the following happens:

Standard oil separators

Operating principle. When entering the oil separator, refrigerant vapors with oil droplets enter the oil separator housing, where the flow rate drops significantly. Due to the reduction in flow rate, a significant part of the oil droplets and vapors settles in the lower part of the apparatus. The gas then passes through the outlet strainer where the final separation of the oil from the refrigerant occurs. At the bottom of the oil separator is a float mechanism with a needle valve that returns oil back to the compressor.

Design and principle of operation of the part

The design of a standard vortex type water separator for pneumatic systems is shown in the figure below.

This node consists of the following elements.

The operating principle of the moisture separator is quite simple. After compressed air enters the housing (1), it moves towards the impeller (8). Once on the impeller, which has guide blades, the air swirls. Under the influence of centrifugal force, all particles in the air move to the walls of the glass (2), where they condense and roll down. To separate the quiet zone in which contaminants are located (6), a damper (5) is provided. Next, the air flow enters the deflector (3) with an installed filter (4), which traps small solid particles of contaminants. Accumulated contaminants are removed through a stopper (7) installed at the bottom of the glass.

Device Description

By dehumidifier we mean a high quality filtration agent. It ensures optimal operating characteristics of the equipment, and also cleans the composition of the air environment that is released by the pneumatic system. Modern compressor models are often supplemented with a panel or oil filter, which thoroughly prepares the working mixture.

This is an important filtration stage for a pneumatic system that maintains oversized tools. Standard models of compressor dehumidifiers are more often used in automotive workshops, as well as on production lines where workers perform a large volume of paint and varnish operations.

As a result of thorough cleaning and reprocessing, the pneumatic system releases air that is free of moisture particles. Due to their properties, moisture separators are used for the proper operation and operation of sandblasting construction equipment.

Types of air purification systems

To clean compressed air, both for industrial and domestic purposes, several types of moisture separators are used: vortex, moisture-oil separators, adsorption and modular cleaning systems.

Vortex filters

A vortex-type moisture-oil separator has a cylindrical shape (the device was discussed above) and purifies the air by swirling it in a chamber (glass). The vortex oil separator is the most common device for cleaning compressed air from moisture and lubricant particles.

Adsorption moisture-oil separators

To remove oil and moisture from compressed air, substances with active absorbing properties are used, for example, silica gel, aluminum gel, calcium chloride, etc. The following figure shows an adsorption-type oil and moisture separator.

Modular cleaning systems

The best results in removing condensate, oil particles and dust from the air are provided by a modular cleaning system . It consists of several elements: a cyclone (vortex) separator, a fine filter and a carbon filter. The following figure shows a modular type oil water separator.

Important! Modular systems ensure, at the last level of purification, almost one hundred percent purity of technical air, which is supplied to blow guns, pneumatic tools, spray guns and respirators (without a carbon filter).

Principle of operation

The dehumidifier begins to process the compressed air before supplying it to the pneumatic equipment. It is important to remember that spray guns cannot be used without this device, so that it does not fail prematurely, as well as to ensure high quality paint application to the surface. During the filtration process, the jet goes through a cleaning stage , so fine liquid particles, as well as small solid elements, are removed from the air.

Depending on the type and design of the device, the operating principle of the dehumidifier may vary slightly. Today, among a large and varied selection, the following options are presented:

The most commonly used are vortex and cyclone dehumidifier devices for compressor equipment. The device helps to effectively retain water particles thanks to the artificially created turbulence of the air flow.

The liquid settles on the surface of the walls, so clean compressed air enters the pneumatic system. To ensure maximum efficiency of the dehumidifier, the internal space is supplemented with blades. When they are set in motion, they carefully collect water and oil particles. They are discharged into a special condensate drain. Liquid fractions are retained and blocked using membranes.

Key equipment characteristics

The scope of application of moisture-oil separators is quite wide, so when choosing a model it is worth immediately identifying its specific goals and objectives: servicing MAZ / KAMAZ class vehicles, pneumatic tools or other devices that require high-quality filtration.

If we take into account the equipment for working with paints and varnishes on pneumatics, then the need for expanded throughput disappears. Here it is much more practical to look towards equipment with fine filters. While for production needs good permeability is required, and the micron indicator for cleaning fades into the background. The latter depends on the size of the fraction. It is more logical to use industrial options for high-quality water treatment. In this case, small particles with a size of about 5 microns are cut off. Classic solutions are mostly equipped with filter systems, the fraction of which fluctuates around 15 microns.

Industrial dehumidifier

Special attention should be paid to the maintained pressure indicator. Separators for compressor equipment in the mid-budget segment offer a level of 7 bar. This parameter has a lesser effect on the final result, but the filter must correspond to the output of the unit, otherwise the efficiency will noticeably decrease, as well as labor costs will increase.

When choosing a separator, it is imperative to compare the load and power indicators at the moment the compressed air moves inside the equipment. It is also necessary to take into account the features of a particular tool, namely, the diameter of the connections. It can be 1/8, 3/4 or the rarer 3/8. There are also exotic options for some specific needs.

Important points

Regardless of whether you buy a dehumidifier from a store or create one yourself, you need to consider the following important points:

• The number of filtration stages plays a huge role in the efficiency of the system. There are two of them in a standard device - during the first, preliminary cleaning is carried out, and the second allows you to finally cut off moisture and small particles from the flow. With only one stage, you increase the presence of foreign objects in the air and expose the dehumidifier to more frequent clogs;
• Pay attention to the device's bandwidth. Too low a level of this indicator will lead to an early breakdown of the system due to too high a load;
• Cleaning depth serves as a way to determine the level of filtration that can be achieved with your dehumidifier. It is measured in microns and means that any smaller particle can easily pass through the filter and end up in the compressor.

Best models

The market offers a wide range of solutions of different formats and brands, and it is very easy to get confused. The list below includes the most popular representatives of the segment, which received a large number of flattering responses from consumers.

Wester 816-002

This is an air filter with a working pressure of 10 atmospheres and a full-fledged air preparation unit. The diameter of the input connections at both ends is 1/4F. A pressure gauge is provided to visualize the readings. The system also includes a lubricator and a gearbox.

The device holds the built-up pressure well, and the pressure gauge does not lie, like with more affordable solutions. The build quality is also at a high level: no gaps, backlashes or other design defects were noticed. The cost of the separator is around 2500 rubles.

Zitrek SAW 3000-02 D FR 1/4 M

The model can be used as a moisture-oil separator or filter. This solution worked well in tandem with pneumatic tools. The air filter does a good job of fine cleaning and, if necessary, can be easily replaced with a new one.

The universal connection diameter is 1/4M. There is a fairly accurate pressure gauge, as well as automatic condensate drainage. The device holds pressure well, but in the absence of it it begins to rattle a little. The cost of the device is about 1000 rubles.

Pegas EC5000-06

This is a serious model with good returns and an appropriate price. The device effectively cleans the incoming air from solid particles and droplets of moisture. The device automatically maintains pressure at the level specified by the user, while simultaneously removing accumulated condensate.

The system includes an oil sprayer, a moisture separator and a pressure gauge. The latter boasts high accuracy. The diameter of the connections is 3/4. The device can withstand pressures of 15 bar and temperatures up to +60⁰С. The cleaning quality is within 25 microns. The cost of the model is a little more than 6,000 rubles.

Licota PAP-C207B

This is a three-level separator with fine cleaning. The device filters compressed air, effectively removing oil and moisture.

The degree of purification for each level is different - 5, 0.3 and 0.01 microns. This approach leaves no chance for pollution, allowing for air purity of almost 100%.

The system includes a pressure regulator with an accurate sensor and an automatic cleaning valve for accumulated condensate. The need to replace the filter elements will be indicated by granules that turn pink. The cost of the device is appropriate - more than 9,000 rubles.

AIST 91030354

The unit includes a separator, lubricator and pressure regulator. The model has proven itself well when paired with a pneumatic tool, filtering the air coming from the compressor. The operating pressure is within 10 bar with a throughput of 4500 l/min.

Additionally, there is an adjustment of the oil supply speed, as well as automatic removal of accumulated condensate. There are no complaints about the quality of the assembly: all elements fit tightly to each other and do not play. The model fully justifies its cost, which is almost 7,000 rubles.

Installation Tips

Based on their many years of experience, StarKraft specialists have prepared several general recommendations on how to properly install a dehumidifier. The compressor and additional equipment can be of any model, but there are a number of general requirements and rules that should be followed.

• Connection and installation of equipment must be carried out so that the air entering the system is as low as possible. For example, in winter, when supplying air from the street, you can achieve a multiple (4-5 times) reduction in its humidity.
• It is necessary to periodically check that the air in the receiver is at maximum pressure.
• When choosing a room for installing a compressor station, you should give preference to the coolest place. Also, the compressor room must have a powerful and reliable ventilation system.
• If we are talking about operating a small mobile compressor, before turning it on (especially in winter), it is advisable to take the installation outside in order to cool its housing as much as possible.
• Where and how to install the dehumidifier on the compressor also matters. It is best to do this in a place where the air flow passes at a minimum temperature and at maximum pressure.
• If, despite everything, you cannot reduce the temperature of the receiver, you can resort to a little trick. Connect a small receiver in series to the main station, installing it outdoors. This will help further reduce the temperature of the air that enters the main system.
• Measures for timely maintenance, checking the condition of filters, and replacing failed elements are extremely important.

How to make a dehumidifier with your own hands

Since the design of the dehumidifier does not include high-tech elements, it is quite possible to make an air dryer for compressors with your own hands from scrap materials.

Cyclone (vortex) water separator

A cyclone-type moisture separator can be made from a liquefied gas cylinder, an unnecessary fire extinguisher, or a piece of metal pipe of a suitable diameter. The length of the pipe can be arbitrary.

The device is made in the following order.

Advice! For proper operation of the device, it must be installed vertically.

Practical recommendations for creating different types of dehumidifiers

At first glance, it seems that making a dehumidifier with your own hands is not difficult. But if the work is done poorly, some of the moisture will enter the compressor and have a negative impact on the quality of the paint. The most important practical tips include the following:

1. The unit housing must be sealed and withstand high pressure.
2. To connect the pipes, you need to use high-quality welding or soldering.
3. The diameter of the inlet and outlet openings must be sufficient for the unobstructed passage of air.
4. A homemade dehumidifier must meet all the requirements of the compressor unit in terms of pressure, power and efficiency.

Video: making a dehumidifier with your own hands