Inline filters play a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and reliability of your compressed air system. They prevent contaminants such as oils, particles, vapours, and microorganisms from reaching sensitive equipment, helping to safeguard pneumatic tools, valves, and other components from potential damage.
Regular inline filter replacement helps maintain system performance and reduces the risk of costly repairs.
Why inline filters require regular replacement
Over time, inline filters accumulate contaminants, leading to reduced airflow and increased pressure drop across the system. This not only puts a strain on your compressor but also affects the quality of compressed air supplied to various applications.
Failure to replace inline filters as recommended can result in:
- Increased energy consumption: Clogged filters force compressors to work harder, consuming more energy.
- Equipment damage: Contaminants bypassing the filter can cause wear and tear on pneumatic components and equipment.
- Operational downtime: Unscheduled maintenance or equipment failure due to clogged filters can disrupt your production or operations.
Recommended inline filter replacement schedule
To keep your compressed air system running efficiently and reliably, it’s recommended to replace inline filters every 8,000 operating hours or at least once a year — whichever comes first.
In environments with high dust or contaminant levels, more frequent replacements may be needed. Following this schedule helps maintain compressor performance and ensures your compressed air meets required quality standards.
It is important to note that while hours and time provide good indicators for inspection and replacement, testing is the only way to be certain your inline filters are working correctly in critical applications.
Differential pressure testing, often done via a simple gauge fitted to the filter housing, allows you to determine if a filter change is necessary due to obstruction.
Breathing air testing provides complete peace of mind, confirming that the air is clean and fit for purpose.
Benefits of routine inline filter replacement
Regular replacement of your compressor’s inline filters offers several advantages:
- Enhanced system efficiency: Ensures optimal airflow and pressure levels.
- Cost savings: Helps prevent expensive repairs by protecting your equipment.
- Compliance: Meets industry standards for air quality and safety.
Nessco Pressure Systems’ filter exchange program
Most inline compressed air filter elements are uniquely designed, meaning they can only be replaced with the original manufacturer’s element. While these original parts can be costly, improved designs now offer reliable, affordable alternatives.
With this in mind, Nessco Pressure Systems has developed a filter exchange program where the complete filter housing is exchanged.
The process involves replacing outdated filters with Infinity Pipe Systems’ efficient and cost-effective compressed air filtration products. This exchange is completed at the cost of the old filter elements, delivering long-term savings, fast delivery, and improved filtration performance.
Infinity Pipe Systems inline filters offer exceptional quality and value, ensuring reliable operation and supporting both system efficiency and reduced maintenance costs.
As an official stockist, we maintain a full range of Infinity Pipe Systems filters in our Welshpool warehouse – eliminating ordering and shipping delays so your replacements are always on hand when needed.
Protect your equipment with routine filter maintenance
Regularly changing inline filters is essential for keeping your compressed air system running smoothly and efficiently. By following the recommended replacement schedule and using our filter exchange program, your business can avoid downtime and extend the life of your compressed air and pneumatic equipment.
Contact Nessco Pressure Systems
For more information about our filter exchange program or to schedule your compressor service, call our service team on 1300 290 638, email info@nesscopressure.com.au or use the booking button below.
Inline filter replacement guide
Not sure when to replace your inline filters? This simple guide outlines key intervals, warning signs, and best practices to keep your system running smoothly.
General inline filter replacement guidelines
- Time: Replace inline filters every 12 months.
- Hours: Replace every 8,000 hours of use (or every twelve months, whichever comes first).
Signs your inline filter replacement is needed sooner
- Increased energy consumption: A clogged filter makes the compressor work harder, raising energy costs.
- Pressure drop: A significant increase in pressure differential across the filter indicates clogging and need for replacement.
- Poor air quality: Visible moisture, oil, or particulates in the compressed air stream suggest filter failure.
- Visual inspection: If the filter element appears dirty, oily, or damaged, replace it sooner than scheduled.
Important considerations
- Check the manual: Always consult your compressor’s service manual for the manufacturer’s specific inline filter replacement recommendations.
- Avoid manual cleaning: Do not attempt to clean the filter element yourself, as this can damage the fine filter media and reduce performance.
- Monitor performance: Track system performance, such as pressure drop and energy use, to determine when replacement is necessary, even if ahead of schedule.
