Ensuring optimal air compressor performance

Many people think of compressed air as industry’s fourth utility – after water, electricity and natural gas – and vital in all kinds of industries.

Just like these other utilities, your Pilot Air compressed air system will rely on proper maintenance for optimum efficiency and consistent reliability.

“Clean, dry air protects your equipment, reduces downtime, and ensures product quality.”

Big water droplets on the light blue paint

Contamination

All air contains some water vapour, no matter the environment. This vapour can then condense to liquid water in your system.

In addition, compressed air may also carry contaminants like lubricating oil carried over from the compressor, atmospheric aerosols and vapours, solid particles and rust from the air main and receivers, and solid particles drawn in by the compressor.

The number of contaminants, whether large or small, will become concentrated when the air is compressed, as air’s ability to hold water vapour increases as it heats. This vapour will condense into liquid as the air cools.

If you don’t make an effort to keep the system clean and dry, there are a number of consequences that may arise, which can affect the performance of your system.

These include:

  • Corrosion and scaling of moving parts
  • Increased wear of components
  • Clogged system
  • System malfunction
  • Leaking seals
  • Subpar operation
  • Equipment failure

Key Takeaways

Air Quality Matters

Clean, dry air prevents corrosion, blockages, and system damage.

Built for Australia

High heat, humidity, and dust make air treatment essential locally.

Complete Solutions

Compressors, dryers, and filtration work together to maintain purity.

Operational Benefits

Reduced downtime, lower maintenance, and improved product finish.

Prevention

Ensuring your compressed air system is clean and dry maximises the efficiency of your system and reduces the running costs to your business.

Pilot Air logo

Benefits

By simply selecting an appropriate air dryer and filtration device, you can remove vapour and particles, and maintain the integrity of your compressed air products.

Removing contaminants and water from your compressed air supply can provide significant benefits, including:

  • Reduced down time – By preventing the deposits of sludge, which form through wet and contaminated air, you can eliminate potential malfunctions and system downtime.
  • Lower equipment maintenance – As moisture in your air compressor can wash away the lubricants used in pneumatic tools, keeping your system dry will increase the system’s lifespan and reduce maintenance costs.
  • Improved product finish – When using compressed air in spray painting and coating applications, moisture and contaminants can lead to poor paint and blasting finishes. By keeping your system clean and dry, you will ensure optimal product finish.

Investing in quality compressed air dryers and filtration products will ensure high quality clean air, save you money and improve the performance of your compressed air product.

Piping Parts

Extensive product range

Our extensive range of Australian made compressed air products offers a solution for all your needs, including compressed air piping.

From air compressors through to compressed air storage, treatment and distribution, we’ve got you covered. And if none of our standard compressed air products are suitable, we offer custom-built solutions to meet your individual requirements.

Our product range and large stock levels, combined with our comprehensive spare parts inventory, ensure we maintain your compressed air system’s reliability and efficiency while reducing whole-of-life operating costs.

Learn more about our compressed air products.

“Pilot Air delivers air treatment solutions built for Australia’s toughest conditions and trusted by Sydney businesses.”

Air Compressor Products

From air compressors through to compressed air storage, treatment and distribution, our extensive range of compressed air products ensures we have the right solution for your business needs, no matter the industry or application. We also offer custom-built packages and compressed air systems that are fit for purpose and tailored to your budget.

Pilot 45BR-HS Horizontal Compressed Air Storage Tank
Pilot 45BR-HS Horizontal Compressed Air Storage Tank

Finished in industrial grade enamel, the Pilot 45BR-HS Horizontal Compressed Air Storage Tank is manufactured to AS1210 and provided with the manufacturer’s data report.

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QS-01 Compressed Air Filter
QS-01 Compressed Air Filter

The Pilot QS-01 Compressed Air Filter is part of Pilot Air’s range of standard workshop type filters. Separates moisture out of the compressed air flow with cyclonic action.

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PA-68 Pneumatic Condensate Drain
PA-68 Pneumatic Condensate Drain

The Pilot PA-68 Pneumatic Condensate Drain will not only reduce operating and maintenance costs, but maximise ease of system operation and efficiency.

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The Pilot Air Team

Our compressed air experts are the best in the business. Committed to outstanding service delivery, our team and network of over 50 specialist technicians are with you every step of the way.

Compressed Air Products

We have Australia’s most extensive range of air compressor solutions, from high-performance models to portable and compact units. We also manufacture the latest air storage, air treatment and air distribution solutions. We offer a complete inventory of spare parts and on or off-site servicing and maintenance and can customise a complete compressed air solution for any business. 

Best suited for industrial applications to meet the ever-changing demands of the industry.

Rotary Screw
Compressors

All the reliability of a Pilot Air product, in a quiet package.

Silent Air
Compressors

Tailored for trade, professional or industrial applications.

Reciprocating Air
Compressors

Horizontal and vertical air receivers to complete a compressed air system installation.

Compressed Air
Storage

100% pure oil-free air, designed for applications where air quality is critical.

Oil-Free Air
Compressors

A range of products that offer safe, clean air, free from impurities.

Compressed Air
Treatment

Ideal for clients with small, specialist compressed air requirements.

Compact Air
Compressors

Efficient and easy to install, with high-quality components.

Compressed Air
Distribution

Perfect for noise sensitive environments where air demands are constant.

Portable Air
Compressors

Perfect for noise sensitive environments where air demands are constant.

Portable Air
Compressors

Complete solutions, including horizontal and vertical air receivers.

Compressed Air
Storage

Ideal for clients with small, specialist compressed air requirements.

Compact Air
Compressors

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “clean, dry air” really mean for air compressor systems?

Clean, dry air refers to compressed air that has had moisture, oil, vapors, and solid particles removed using filtration and drying. Pilot Air explains this in their Clean, Dry Air Compressors page.

Why is keeping compressed air clean and dry especially important in Australian environments?

Because Australia has high heat, humidity, and dust, moisture condenses more readily, which can lead to corrosion, system wear, clogs and degraded performance. Pilot Air emphasises this on their Clean, Dry Air Compressors page under the Contamination and Prevention sections.

What components are needed to ensure compressed air stays clean and dry?

To keep air clean and dry, systems typically use compressors, air dryers, filters, condensate drains, and proper piping. Pilot Air offers a full range of compressed air treatment products including dryers and filtration.

What are the benefits of investing in quality air dryers and filtration?

Using good dryers and filters can reduce downtime, lower maintenance costs, improve product finish (e.g. in spray painting or coating), prevent equipment failure, and extend system life. Pilot Air outlines these benefits on theirClean, Dry Air Compressors.

How does Pilot Air provide local support to keep air systems clean, dry, and reliable?

Pilot Air supplies Australian-made compressed air products, has large spare parts inventory, offers custom-built solutions, and provides support through its Sydney-based Service & Maintenance team. See their Service and Maintenance and Custom Built Packages pages for details.

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