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Compressor Dictionary - F

Filter Cartridge Design

Breathing air is processed using three stage purification techniques:

• mechanical separation of condensate,
• drying by means of refrigeration dryers or desiccating chemicals,
• adsorption of gaseous contaminants by means of » activated carbon.

Our range of diving compressors is fitted with the patented » TRIPLEX filter system, which is integrated after the last compressor stage. These filters combine these methods of filtration.

A mechanical separator removes the condensate. A jet of compressed air is catapulted against its inside housing. Liquid contaminants stick to the container housing, drip towards the bottom of the container and are drained using the condensate valve. The temperature of the separator housing influences the amount of residual moisture; low temperatures cause low residual humidity. Consequently, the filter lifetime of the » drying cartridge increases dramatically.

Activated carbon traps oil vapours and other gaseous contaminants. The absorption capacity is greatly reduced by residual water vapours. Therefore, compressed air has to be dried before purification.

Residual moisture is adsorbed by the cartridge's molecular sieve filling. Several felt layers retain solid contaminants and prevent the drying agent from developing air pockets. To ensure optimal purification, finely grained activated carbon and molecular sieve are used. Dense packing is achieved by special production methods that compact the granules.

Even though these cartridges are designed for single use, refilling is technically possible. Yet, BAUER KOMPRESSOREN discourages divers from doing this for several reasons. Firstly, cost reductions are minimal. Secondly, safe filling requires expertise and expensive apparatus.

Those still unconvinced should observe certain procedures when refilling. Material and cartridges must be stored in a low humidity environment. Only genuine spare parts from BAUER, such as the felt discs, drying and purification agents, should be employed. To ensure uniform filter lifetime, filling weights and the quality of the granulates must be kept constant. Furthermore, the layers must be reliably separated from one another. Before reprocessing, the cartridge housing must be emptied, cleaned and checked. With time and frequent use, the cartridge's plastic housing may become brittle and tear. In that instance, untreated air will seep into the cylinder. This is extremely hazardous!

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