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  • Oil Removal from Compressed Air: Essential for Clean, Safe, and Efficient Operations

    Compressed air is often referred to as the "fourth utility" in industrial operations. But unlike electricity or water, compressed air often comes with unwanted byproducts—one of the most damaging being oil contamination. Whether from lubricated compressors or airborne hydrocarbons, oil in compressed air can cause serious problems if not properly removed.

Oil vapor and aerosols in compressed air can lead to:

Contaminated end products

Especially in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and cleanroom industries

Clogged pneumatic components 

Lead to valve failures, seal degradation, and premature wear

Increased maintenance costs 

Oil buildup requires frequent cleaning and filter replacement


How to Remove Oil from Compressed Air ?

Coalescing Filters

These are your first line of defense against liquid oil and aerosols. Coalescing filters work by capturing small oil droplets and merging them into larger ones, which then drain out.

 -Removes particles and oil aerosols down to 0.01 microns.

 -Typically reduces oil content to <0.1 mg/m³.

Activated Carbon Filters

To eliminate oil vapors, use activated carbon filters. These filters adsorb hydrocarbons from the air stream and are essential for achieving oil-free air (ISO Class 1 or 0). 

-Removes vapor-phase hydrocarbons.

-Brings total oil content down to <0.003 mg/m³.

Oil-Water Separators 

In sensitive applications, starting with an oil-free air compressor eliminates the primary source of contamination. However, filtration is still recommended due to airborne and system-based hydrocarbons.




Oil removal isn’t just about cleaner air—it’s about protecting your processes, products, and people. Whether you're operating in a cleanroom or a machine shop, investing in a proper oil filtration system ensures reliability, regulatory compliance, and peace of mind. Need help selecting oil removal filters or building a clean air system?