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How to halt the growth of microorganisms in compressed air

The capacity of microorganisms to grow in a compressed air system is tied to the compressed air’s moisture content (dew point). So said, if there is moisture in your compressed air, germs such as mould and bacteria will be able to increase and thrive. While it is true that as air is compressed, much of the moisture in the intake air condenses, enough water remains to allow bacteria to thrive.

The most common method for removing moisture from compressed air is chilled air drying. Cooling the compressed air allows more moisture to condense. However, refrigerated dryers cannot drop the dew point of air below the freezing point of water (32 F/0 C). To maintain a shallow dew point (a standard norm for food and beverage processing is -40 F/-40 C), a desiccant-type drier may be required. Filtration of intake and compressed air is also essential for maintaining a high-quality atmosphere.

Testing of compressed air

Compressed air testing, like fire extinguishers and personal protective equipment (PPE), should be a fundamental safety component in your business. To ensure that your air systems meet the new criteria, you’ll need a well-designed and implemented compressed air monitoring programme to monitor the performance of your facility’s air filtration, air drying, and air system maintenance. An expert audit of your compressed air or other gas system is a good starting point. A complete air audit includes the following components:

• Detection of leaks (ultrasonic and acoustic camera)
• Supply chain auditing (pressure testing, flow metering, cost)
• Supply chain auditing (pressure testing, flow metering, cost)
• Monitoring of air quality (controlled sampling of your air, lab testing and comprehensive report)

Professional air testing is easy, effective, non-intrusive, and inexpensive. It contributes to the following important benefits for your company:

• Protects your product quality
• Protects your brand
• Guarantees peace of mind

How can microorganisms exist in compressed air pipes?

Everything in ambient air is present in the compressed air that has not been treated. Because much of the moisture, oil, and aerosols that come out of solution when compressed come out of solution under pressure, the air must be appropriately cleaned, frequently by filtering and drying, to produce hygienic, high-quality compress air.

How essential is the quality of the air pipe system in eliminating microorganisms?

The quality of the piping is critical. Compress air should be appropriately treated before being delivered into the pipe system, utilising filtering and drying techniques appropriate for your needs. It might be difficult to rehabilitate a dirty pipe to a hygienic state.

What are the different classifications of filtration systems that exist for the compressed air supply?

There are air treatment components available to remove various contaminants such as solid particles, liquid water, water vapour, oil vapour, and odorants, as well as microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Most automation applications, including food and beverage preparation, focus on removing solid particles and water. Water separators, for example, employ a coalescing principle or a centrifugal design to remove condensate. A coalescing separator transports compressed air from the inside to the outside of a filter element. These filter cartridges must be replaced regularly. A centrifugal separator induces rotating motion in the air, forcing particles to accelerate in a radial outward direction. When they reach the outside, they drip into a dish. This method requires no upkeep.

What are some benefits that come from dry compressed air?

Yes. Moisture is kept out of pneumatic pipework, controls, and equipment using dry compress air, reducing corrosion and increasing overall system dependability. Several drying procedures are available, including refrigerant and desiccant drying, each with its own set of advantages. It is vital to note that drying compress air requires energy. Significant energy savings may be realised by selecting the appropriate drying procedure and dew point for the application.

How to check compressed air for microorganisms?

Air should be analysed at the point of usage to see if microbes are present. As a result, it is vital to pick a technology for collecting and identifying microbial contamination in compress air. In partnership with your product safety team, an air system specialist can help you evaluate your needs and design appropriate sampling and testing processes.