People often ask, “Can anyone change a compressed air inline filter element, or should I hire a professional?” Unfortunately, the answer isn’t straightforward. While most individuals can handle the physical act of replacing a filter element, improper execution can lead to significant issues. It can render the filters ineffective.
More crucially, this replacement offers a chance to inspect the housings, elements, and auto drain for any signs of contamination, damage, or other complications within the compressed air system. An untrained person might miss these critical indicators. This is especially true if they lack a deep understanding of compressed air and filtration systems. In critical applications, such as breathing air or food preparation, overlooking these signs can be both dangerous and costly. For instance, a faulty auto drain could allow condensate, removed from the compressed air stream by the filter, to accumulate and flood the unit. This condensate could then re-enter the air stream, contaminating all downstream processes. These processes are what the filter is meant to protect. An inexperienced person might simply empty the filter bowl and replace the element. They could fail to recognise any underlying issues.
Regular air quality testing provides reassurance and serves as a crucial reference point. However, it only captures a moment in time. Air quality could change drastically the next day if there are issues within the compressed air system. To minimize costly contamination, ensure worker safety, and prevent compensation claims, frequent assessments are essential. These should be combined with preventative maintenance by a qualified professional.
The compressed air industry generally recommend the following products to be changed at the suggested intervals.
- Activated Carbon Odour Removal – Change out every 6 months or 1000 hours of operation (whichever comes first) or if oil odour/taste is noticed.
- Coalescing Oil/Water & Particulate Removal – Change out every 12 months or 2000 hours of operation (whichever comes first) or if significant pressure drop is noticed.
- Auto Drains – Change out annually as part of preventative maintenance measures.
So for these reasons we recommended that inline compressed air filters should ideally be changed at the required intervals. Trained, experienced individuals should perform this task. They can identify any problems within the whole compressed air system, ensuring the best possible air for the end-user.
You can find high-quality alternative replacement elements for most major brands on our website https://nationalfilters.com.au/product-category/alternative-replacements/
And replacement auto drains at https://nationalfilters.com.au/product-category/condensate-drains/alternative-filter-drains/