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Compressed air filter

Clean compressed air for clean processes

Compressed air has become indispensable in modern industry. However, to ensure that machines, tools, and processes run smoothly, it must be free of contaminants. That is why compressed air filters are so important. They remove dust, water, oil, and other particles from the air before it enters the system.

Compressed air filters from FESTO reliably ensure consistently high air quality. They increase the service life of your systems and reduce maintenance costs. They also contribute to process reliability, especially in sensitive industries such as the food, pharmaceutical, and electronics industries.

MS series

MS series

Modular filters for flexible applications

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Individual devices

Individual devices

Special filters for individual requirements.

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Filter cartridges

Filter cartridges

Replaceable filter elements for optimum air quality.

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Even more solutions for your compressed air treatment

In addition to the right compressed air filters, FESTO offers a wide range of other components to complete your system – from accessories to supplementary treatment units.

FESTO products for compressed air treatment

FESTO products for compressed air preparation

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Wide range of compatible accessories

Large selection of compatible accessories

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What is a compressed air filter

What is a compressed air filter

A compressed air filter is a central component in every compressed air system. It removes solids, liquids, and gaseous contaminants from compressed air. This protects pneumatic tools or machines from damage, as even the smallest particles or droplets can seriously disrupt operation.

Some filters combine several stages in one housing. Modern variants, such as the FESTO MS series, allow different filter inserts to be combined with pressure regulators, dryers, and sensors. This is completely modular and can be customized for each application. Automated condensate drains can also be integrated, reducing maintenance work to a minimum.

A well-chosen compressed air filter not only ensures clean air. It also guarantees smooth processes, energy efficiency, and long service life in your system.

Filter types for every requirement

Not every filter is suitable for every application. That's why we offer a range of solutions and systems from FESTO for a wide variety of requirements.

  • Coarse filters
    Coarse filters are the first step in air treatment. They trap larger particles such as dust, rust, or chips. Fine and ultra-fine filters then take over the precise cleaning down to the submicron range. They remove the smallest particles and microorganisms and ensure the highest air quality – for example in medical technology or food production.
  • Activated carbon filters
    Activated carbon filters are used when odor-free and oil-free air is required. Their porous material binds gaseous contaminants particularly effectively. Water separators are responsible for condensing water. They use centrifugal forces to separate the water from the air before it can cause damage. Precise filter solutions, such as the MS series from FESTO, can be individually combined with pressure control valves, dryers, or oilers. They achieve high flow rates with low space requirements. The modular concept enables a customized design for almost any application: from workshop solutions to use in explosion-proof areas to highly automated systems with integrated sensor technology and condition monitoring.

Overview of the most important filter types:

Coarse filters

Remove larger particles such as dust, rust, or chips – ideal as the first stage of air treatment.

Fine and ultra-fine filters

Filter the smallest particles and microorganisms – suitable for applications with the highest air purity requirements.

Activated carbon filters

Bind gaseous residues and odors – for applications with sensitive requirements in terms of odor and purity.

Water separators

Use centrifugal forces to separate condensation from the compressed air – particularly effective in humid ambient air.

Which compressed air filter is right for your application?

Choosing the right filter depends on the area of application and the required air quality. It is important that the filter is suitable for the operating pressure of your system and reduces the pressure as little as possible. The amount of air flowing through the system also plays a role.

Stricter requirements apply to sensitive applications. In medical technology and food production, the compressed air must be particularly clean and free of oil. Ultra-fine filters and activated carbon filters are used for this purpose. Ultra-fine filters are also important in paint shops and laboratories to ensure clean results and prevent contamination.

The design also plays a role. Stainless steel housings are recommended for hygienic areas, while in other environments you can also use more cost-effective plastic solutions. A look at ISO standard 8573-1 helps with classification: it defines different purity classes for particles, water, and oil. This allows you to choose exactly the right filter for your process.

Which compressed air filter is right for your application?

You should keep these points in mind when making your selection

Selection of pressure filters

Let us assist you. We will be happy to advise you on selecting the right pressure filter.

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  • Filter type
    Select according to application – e.g., coarse filters for workshops or activated carbon filters for oil-free compressed air in food production.
  • Air quality (ISO 8573-1)
    The standard defines purity classes for particles, water, and oil. This allows you to select exactly the filter performance your application requires.
  • Pressure loss & energy efficiency
    The less pressure the filter reduces, the less energy your system needs.
  • Material & design
    Stainless steel is good for clean areas such as laboratories or kitchens. Plastic is sufficient for normal industrial environments.
  • Maintenance requirements
    Look for filter elements that are easy to access and have long replacement intervals. This saves time and money.
  • Filter performance
    The key factor is what the filter is supposed to remove from the air: coarse particles, fine oil, or both?

Even the best filter needs regular maintenance.

How long a filter remains usable depends on various factors. These include the air volume, exposure to dirt and oil mist, and other environmental conditions. Heat and humidity also affect the material. If a filter is operated for too long, the pressure resistance in the system increases. This means that the system has to use more energy to provide the same amount of air. Not only does this cost electricity, it can also affect the entire process. It is therefore worth checking the condition of the filter inserts regularly.

Filter housings with a differential pressure indicator are particularly practical. This small indicator measures the pressure difference before and after the filter insert. An increasing differential pressure indicates that the filter is becoming clogged. This makes it possible to determine the optimal replacement time. As a rough guideline, coarse and coalescence filters should be replaced every six to twelve months. Activated carbon filters usually need to be replaced sooner. Depending on the load, this can be after as little as 800 operating hours. Water separators usually only need to be emptied regularly. Replacement is usually only necessary after two to three years. Automatic condensate drains are a sensible solution for even less maintenance. These systems detect when water collects in the filter housing and drain it automatically. They are electrically controlled and, if required, also feature integrated monitoring. This allows you to keep an eye on the status at all times. Not only does this save time, it also prevents moisture from accumulating and damaging the system. The result: safe and reliable operation at all times.

Even the best filter needs regular maintenance.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about compressed air filters

What does a compressed air filter do?

A compressed air filter cleans the air before it enters machines and tools. It specifically removes unwanted substances such as dust particles, oil droplets, water, or gaseous contaminants. Depending on the design, this is done mechanically using filter elements, by coalescence, or by means of activated carbon. The goal: consistently high air quality for trouble-free and safe processes.

Why does compressed air need to be filtered?

Compressed air is used as an energy source in many areas, from industry to medical technology. However, the compressed air produced often contains residues from the environment or from the compressor itself. These can contaminate pipes, damage pneumatic components, or even contaminate products. A filter tailored to the respective process protects the technology, keeps the air quality stable, and reduces maintenance costs.

How often should a filter be replaced?

This depends on several factors: the degree of contamination in the environment, the air flow rate, and the type of filter used. Coarse and coalescence filters usually last six to twelve months, while activated carbon filters last significantly shorter—often only 800 to 1000 operating hours. It is important to check the pressure drop across the filter regularly. A sharp drop is a clear sign that replacement is necessary.

Are FESTO filters compatible with all systems?

FESTO offers a wide range of filter solutions that can be flexibly integrated into existing compressed air systems. Whether in workshops, clean rooms, or automated series production, there are suitable components for almost every application. When making your selection, it is important to carefully check the technical requirements, such as pressure range, volume flow, and the desired air quality.

How can I tell if my filter is still working?

If the air pressure drops significantly or compressed air consumption increases, this may be a sign that the filter is clogged. Unusually high levels of condensate or visible deposits on the filter housing are also indications of this. If you want to be on the safe side, choose a filter with a differential pressure indicator. This measures the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet of the filter. If this difference becomes too great, it is time to replace the filter.

Contact and consultation

Not sure which compressed air filter is right for your application? Talk to us. We will be happy to advise you and work with you to find the right solution. Take advantage of our expertise to optimally protect your systems – with high-quality compressed air filters from FESTO.

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