ATLAS COPCO Industrial Air Compressor Air Filters - 1. Core Function and Working Principle
Inlet Air Filtration
The air filter is installed at the front end of the air intake of the air compressor. Through the interception and adsorption effects of multiple layers of filtering materials (such as filter paper, non-woven fabric, sponge, etc.), it filters out impurities in the air such as dust, sand particles, and fibers, ensuring that the air entering the compressor meets the cleanliness standards (typically requiring a filtration accuracy of ≥ 99.5%, capable of filtering particles ≥ 1 μm). Protective equipment
If impurities in the air enter the main unit, it will accelerate the wear of precision components such as rotors and bearings, and also contaminate the lubricating oil, leading to deterioration of the oil quality and clogging of the oil filter, thereby shortening the equipment's lifespan. High-quality air filters can effectively reduce such risks.
Ensuring efficiency
A clean air filter can reduce intake resistance, ensure sufficient intake volume, and prevent a decrease in compression efficiency and an increase in energy consumption due to insufficient intake.
II. Common Types and Application Scenarios
Dry air filter: The mainstream type, using paper or synthetic fiber filter materials, filtering through physical interception, is suitable for most dry and medium-dust concentration environments (such as factory workshops, warehouses, etc.).
Oil bath air filter: Some older or special application models use this type, adsorbing dust through an oil film, suitable for high-dust environments (such as mines, cement plants), but the maintenance is relatively complex.
The air filters of different series of air compressors (such as GA, G, ZR, etc.) have different sizes and interfaces, and need to be matched with specific models (such as GA75, G11, etc.).
III. Fault Manifestations and Impacts Blockage
After long-term use, the filter material accumulates excessive impurities, resulting in an increase in intake resistance (usually monitored by the air filter pressure difference gauge. If it exceeds the set value such as 50 mbar, replacement is required). This manifests as a decrease in the exhaust volume of the air compressor, insufficient pressure, and increased motor load.
Damaged or improperly sealed
If the filter material tears, the frame ages, or the installation is improper, the seal becomes inadequate, allowing unfiltered air to directly enter the main unit, causing wear on the core components. In severe cases, it may even cause the main unit to freeze.
Decreased filtration efficiency
When the filter material gets damp, aged, or of poor quality, the filtration accuracy decreases, and fine impurities enter the system, accelerating the deterioration of the lubricating oil and clogging the oil filter core.
Maintenance and Replacement Key Points
Daily Inspection
Regularly (e.g., weekly) inspect the appearance of the air filter. If the surface is heavily dusty, use compressed air to blow from the inside out for cleaning (for dry air filters). However, do not use water or oil for cleaning.
Observe the air filter pressure difference gauge. When the pressure difference value reaches the replacement threshold specified in the equipment manual, it must be replaced.
Replacement Cycle
In normal environments, it is recommended to replace it every 2,000 - 4,000 hours;
In high-dust environments, the cycle should be shortened (e.g., every 1,000 hours), or replace it in advance according to the indication of the pressure difference gauge;
If the filter material is damaged, it must be replaced immediately to prevent impurities from entering the main unit.
Installation Precautions
Select the original factory-compatible air filter (such as Atlas original part number 2901045600, 2901056400, etc., and provide the air compressor model for confirmation);
Before installation, clean the dust inside the air filter housing to ensure the integrity of the sealing gasket, and check the seal after installation;
After replacement, reset the pressure difference gauge (if there is a reset button).
