Energy efficient compressed air filtration: An experimental study on the effect of filters selection and configuration on pressure drop

Abstract

Over the past decades, the industrial sector has been trying to improve the use of resources and the environmental impact they create. Significant work has been done in compressed air systems. However, there is still much room for improvement. The focus of this study is on a new approach to energy efficient compressed air filtration. This approach involves the installation of different filter configurations that enable a lower pressure drop, instead of the conventionally selected filter. The goal is to reduce the pressure drop, while maintaining the same level of air quality. Pressure drop and compressed air quality are taken as key performance indicators that assess the efficiency and sustainability of compressed air system. It has been experimentally proven that compressed air quality classes remain the same for filters with the same grade of filtration, regardless of the number, type, and way of their installation. However, there is a small difference in the case of particulate and coalescing filters. This environmentally friendlier approach provides a win-win situation. The pressure drop is reduced, costs are also reduced, the system operates continuously and more reliably, and the process is more sustainable.