MNL-0408
June 11, 2009
Page 59
5.3
Component Description
5.3.1
Oil and Water Separator
The air leaving the final stage is cooled in the aftercooler to approximately 18 - 27°F (10 -15°C) above
ambient temperature and then enters the oil and water separator. The oil and water separator works by
means of a sintered metal filter which separates liquid oil and water particles from the compressed air.
^
WARNING
The rapid depressurizing and repressurizing of the oil and water separator during condensate draining sub-
jects it to metallurgical stresses. To prevent catastrophic failure with the possibility of damage, injury or
death the oil and water separator (P/N 079416) must be replaced after a predetermined number of cycles.
One load cycle equals one pressurization plus one depressurization.
Units operating between 3,000 and 5,000 psi = 130,000 load cycles (32,500 hours of operation)
Units operating between 5,000 and 6,000 psi = 55,000 load cycles (13,750 hours of operation
The BAUER recommended frequency of condensate draining is every fifteen minutes and is a balance
between maximizing the life of the separator chamber and maintaining the quality of the delivered air.
Figure 5-4
Oil and Water Separator