Yes, you need a water separator for an air compressor if you want to avoid costly compressor repairs in the future. One of the common challenges in compressed air systems is the presence of water, which can lead to various issues such as corrosion, damage to equipment, and compromised performance. To address this problem, many air compressor users opt for a water separator. Protecting your quality of work and saving money on maintenance.

How Does A Water Separator For Air Compressor Work?

Water can enter compressed air systems through atmospheric moisture, condensation within the compressor, or lubricant carryover. When air is compressed, its temperature rises, causing the moisture present in the air to condense. Additionally, lubricants used in compressors can carry water vapor. Both of which you do not want.

A water separator for air compressor removes aerosols, liquid water, and other contaminants from compressed air before it reaches your air tools or equipment. It utilizes different mechanisms, such as centrifugal force, filtration, or cooling, to separate water droplets and moisture from the compressed air stream.

What Is The Best Water Separator For My Compressor?

To know what kind of water separator you need, you need to understand the compressor you have. Air compressors come in three main varieties with unique characteristics and applications.

Centrifugal Compressor

The first type is the centrifugal compressor, which excels in higher-capacity tasks. It operates by transferring energy from the rotation of the impeller to the air. One significant advantage is that they are oil-free in the compression area, reducing the need for filtering out oil vapors.

Rotary Screw Compressor

Next, we have the rotary screw compressor, which utilizes positive displacement. This compressor employs two cased rotors to compress the air. While efficient, they require oil cooling, which may necessitate more extensive oil vapor filtering.

Reciprocating Compressor

Lastly, the reciprocating models also utilize positive displacement techniques. They achieve increased air pressure by reducing its volume through an internal piston. These models come in various configurations, including air-cooled or water-cooled and lubricated or non-lubricated versions, catering to different needs and preferences.

Which Water Separator Should I Get for My Air Compressor?

The Arrow Filter Water Trap can work with air compressors of all flow rates, from standard (48-100 CFM) to midflow (160-250 CFM) to high-flow (260-425 CFM).

Please consult your owner’s manual to confirm your air compressor’s CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) rating.

How To Install A Water Separator On A Compressor

Installing a water separator on your air compressor is generally a straightforward process. To help you through the installation, follow this step-by-step guide:

1. Safety first! Begin by turning off your air compressor to ensure safety.
2. Choose a suitable location for your water separator. Position it about 30 feet downstream from your compressor’s air entry point.
3. Locate the hose pipe that connects to the compressor’s pressure tank and carefully remove it.
4. Take the water separator and connect each end to the left and right sides.
5. The next step is to attach the water separator to the pressure gauge’s coupler and the TO-head of the hose pipes.

Once you’ve completed these steps, your water separator for air compressor should be correctly installed and ready to function effectively. Thus protecting your air compressor and air tools.

However, suppose you feel uncertain about performing the installation yourself or prefer professional assistance. In that case, it’s a wise choice to seek the help of an Air Power Equipment Co. pro. We can handle the compressor water separator installation for you, ensuring everything is set up correctly and operating safely.

How To Clean Air Compressor Water Separator

Just like any other tool, your air compressor water separator requires maintenance. Cleaning your air compressor’s water separator is the easiest thing you’ll do all day. All you need to do is empty the water collected by your water separator when the water trap is two-thirds full.

How To Empty Water Separator From Air Compressor

Emptying your compressor water separator is a simple process. Follow these steps to do it safely and effectively:

1. Locate the plug or quarter-turn valve at the bottom of the water separator.
2. If you find a plug, use a wrench to unscrew it. For a quarter-turn valve, turn it counterclockwise to open.
3. Before opening the plug or valve, ensure that some air pressure remains in the tank. This pressure will help push the water out more effectively.
4. Be cautious when opening the plug or valve, as the water will forcefully exit. Make sure to direct the outlet away from yourself and others to avoid any accidents.
5. Once the water drains completely, close the plug or valve securely.

Following these steps, you can safely empty your compressor water separator and prevent water accumulation issues in your air compressor.

Air Power Equipment Co. – Your Air Compressor Experts

Ultimately, a water separator for an air compressor is essential for maintaining your air compressor’s performance and longevity. Removing water and contaminants from the compressed air helps prevent corrosion and equipment damage. When selecting a water separator, consider the compatibility with your compressor and the specific requirements of your application.

For reliable compressor water separators and expert advice, APEC offers a range of high-quality products suitable for various compressor styles and sizes. Whether you order online with convenient shipping or visit our physical store, APEC provides top-notch solutions to meet your air compressor needs. Don’t compromise the performance of your compressor—invest in a quality water separator from Air Power Equipment Co. today.

Air Power Equipment Company in Oklahoma City (OKC), is the leading source for new air compressor sales and used air compressor sales throughout the country. We specialize in rotary screw air compressor sales and reciprocal air compressor sales. Air Power Equipment Company is also the best source for air compressor service and air compressor parts in Oklahoma.  If you are looking for new air compressors, used air compressors, air compressor parts, or air compressor service call Air Power Equipment Company OKC. We are experts with all brands of air compressor equipment and we are a stocking distributor of air compressor brands like FS Curtis Air Compressors, Champion Air Compressors, Campbell Hausfeld Air Compressors, Kellogg Air Compressors, American Air Compressors, Quincy Compressor and many more. Call us at (405) 445-1216 – we have what you need, and at the best price you will find.