Annual filter element replacement is vital

One of the questions most frequently asked by compressed air users is, without doubt, “Why should I replace my filter elements annually?”

To answer this question, it is important to understand the function of a compressed air filter element. Throughout their operating lives, they are constantly bombarded by oily, acidic condensates and high velocity dirt particles, which must be removed and retained to protect the compressed air system. However, this arduous duty will inevitably weaken the filter media and, over time, reduce filtration performance which, most importantly, cannot be detected by simple differential pressure monitoring techniques.

Considering the importance of system performance and reliability, it follows that the answer to the question of whether filter elements should be replaced when the manufacturer's twelve month guarantee expires, is to analyse the cost of replacement elements versus the cost of not replacing them; this should take into account the risk of damaged equipment, increased downtime, emergency repair costs and contaminated or faulty product batches. Most critically, these issues all affect productivity and, in the case of inferior quality manufactured products, can have longer term effects on a company's reputation and profitability.

Accordingly, to guarantee compressed air quality and protect downstream equipment and processes, while avoiding reduced production performance and increased operational costs, it is essential to replace filter elements with genuine replacement parts every year.

For performance, a wide range of applications and fast availability from a single source, Parker's range of competitively priced, quality filter elements allow users to locate all their requirements from a single source regardless of original equipment manufacturer.