When you’re renting an air compressor, your focus is usually on power and pressure. But one of the most important components that often gets overlooked is the air filter dryer system.
It might seem like a small accessory, but it plays a large role in protecting your equipment, improving performance, and avoiding costly issues on-site. Let’s break down how an air filter dryer system works, what it does, and why it’s essential for your compressed air setup.
Compressed air may look clean, but it typically carries tiny particles of dirt, oil, and moisture. If left unfiltered, these contaminants can:
Clog your compressor or air tools
Cause internal corrosion in your lines and equipment
Freeze in colder conditions, halting work entirely
Affect application quality, especially in painting or sandblasting
A properly installed air filter/dryer system eliminates these risks by removing impurities from the air before it reaches your equipment.
Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes when air flows through a standard 2-stage filter/dryer system:
Stage 1: Extractor/DryerIncoming air contains particulates, oil vapor, and moisture.
As it enters the cartridge mesh filter, a coalescing effect causes fine moisture droplets to combine into larger ones.
The air then slows down in the extraction chamber, where water droplets and particulates settle out.
This particle-laden moisture flows to the bottom and drains away.
Air continues through a fiber cartridge filter that captures any remaining contaminants down to 5 microns.
The result: clean, dry air, free of dirt, oil, rust, and water droplets.
This two-stage system ensures your pneumatic equipment runs smoothly and stays protected—no matter the conditions.
To get the most from your air filter/dryer system, keep these guidelines in mind:
✅ Install filters close to the point of use
Placing the filter/dryer system near the tool or application ensures air is cleaned just before use.
✅ Use corrosion-resistant piping
Copper or stainless steel lines help preserve air quality and prevent internal rust.
✅ Check desiccants and drains regularly
If your system includes desiccant, monitor its color to know when replacement is needed. And always drain accumulated moisture to prevent blockages.
✅ Watch for pressure drops
A sudden drop may indicate a clogged filter that needs attention.
At LGH, we provide a complete range of compressed air accessories to support your project needs:
These components are fully compatible with our air compressor rentals and designed to help you get the job done right—the first time.
Don’t let a small oversight lead to big downtime. Whether you’re working in extreme weather, dealing with sensitive equipment, or just want to keep things running clean and smooth—a filter/dryer system is an easy win.
📞 Need help building the right compressed air setup? Talk to our team, and we’ll help you spec exactly what you need—no fluff, no guesswork.
Source:
“Airline filter, 1/2′, 80 scfm, La-Man Extractor/Dryer.” http://clemtex.com, Clemtex, clemtex.com/products/la-man-lm110-12-extractor-80-scfm.
LGH is North America’s largest single organization devoted exclusively to the provision of lifting and moving equipment for rent. LGH holds the most comprehensive inventory for hoisting, rigging, jacking, pulling, material handling, and safety equipment. With over 90,000 pieces, discover your next project solution at RentLGH.com.
