Air Line Filter Buying Guide

Air compressor filters extend the life of a compressor and improve the quality of the air being produced. 

Aside from filtering out additional moisture from the air, air line filters remove particulates such as dust and dirt. While most users only require general-purpose filters, high-efficiency filters may be needed for medical applications or to protect delicate instruments from contaminants. For different applications, there are several different options from which to choose. 

General Purpose Filters 

General-purpose air filters are ideal for basic water, oil, and dirt removal. They keep the air moderately clean and extend the life of an air compressor. Average general-purpose filter elements can catch particulates 5 microns in size; however, some general-purpose filters are capable of catching particulates as small as 1 micron. 

Activated Carbon Filters 

Activated carbon typically comes from charcoal and highly porous biochar. These air line filters are commonly used in OSHA-regulated breathable air systems. 

They offer the largest surface area and lowest pressure drop, resulting in more adsorption and less interruption. A major benefit of activated carbon filters is their ability to remove oil vapors and odors. 

High-Efficiency Filters 

These in-line filters are ideal for those looking to conserve energy and filter particulates as small as 0.01 microns. High-efficiency air line filters are well-suited for painting applications to eliminate the concern of "fish-eye" flaws in paint finishes. 

High-efficiency air line filters are designed to filter more water, oil, and contaminants than other filters while still reducing pressure drop. 

Water Separator Filters 

These air line filters are generally used when the main contaminant in the air is water. However, many of them are also able to filter out dirt and oil. 

In addition to trapping water at the bottom of the filter bowl, water separator filters reverse the air-flow direction 180 degrees inside the filter and pass it through a stainless steel mesh element.