Moisture separators are devices used in air compressors to remove moisture from compressed air. Since, moisture in compressed air can cause several problems, such as corrosion of tools and equipment, freezing of pipes, and reduced efficiency of the compressor itself. They are employed by several industries, including automotive, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and textiles. Moisture separators are typically used in systems where compressed air is stored in an air receiver.
Dehydration is the preservation technique that attempts to remove moisture. The prefix de refers to removing or eliminating, the root word hydra refers to water, and the suffix ion refers to a process, thus making dehydration the process of removing or eliminating moisture or water.
Separators work on the principle that the three components have different densities, which allows them to stratify when moving slowly with gas on top, water on the bottom and oil in the middle. Any solids such as sand will also settle in the bottom of the separator.
There are three types of Moisture separators:
1. Water Separator
2. Moisture Separator
3. Moisture Separator with Filter
First, they are highly effective at removing water vapor from compressed air. Second, they are relatively easy to install and maintain. Third, they are relatively inexpensive to operate. Finally, Moisture separators can be used in various climates and applications.
It is used to protect equipment that can be damaged by contact with moisture, such as pneumatic tools and cylinders, and to improve the equipment’s efficiency by removing unwanted water vapor.