Air compressors play a
vital role in numerous applications within the food and beverage industry,
ranging from packing and bottling to cleaning, nitrogen generation, food
filling, and even food processing. Selecting the appropriate air compressor for
these operations necessitates careful consideration to ensure safety, product
quality, optimal performance, and compliance with industry standards and
specific operational requirements.
Oil-free screw air
compressors and oil-lubricated screw air compressors are two commonly employed
air compressor technologies in the food and beverage industry, largely
determined by the required air purity standards for different applications.
Among these, the oil-free screw air compressor is the most prevalent in the
food and beverage industry, particularly where compressed air directly contacts
food products.
Since not all air
compressors are designed equally for various applications, thorough research is
essential before making a selection. The choice of an air compressor depends on
the organization's specific application needs, required air volume, and
available space. The following points outline how to select the right air
compressor for the food and beverage industry:
Calculating
Required Air Volume:
The initial step involves
calculating the required air volume, typically measured in CFM (cubic feet per
minute). To determine this, the PSI (pounds per square inch) and hose or pipe
diameter are essential factors. The PSI can usually be found on the compressor
or any device utilizing the compressed air, while hose or pipe sizes are
typically specified in equipment documentation or product specifications.
•
Consideration of Contaminant Risks:
Maintaining air quality is
paramount in food and beverage manufacturing to prevent contamination and
ensure product safety. Certain products, such as meat and poultry, necessitate
an elevated level of hygiene and must be processed in a food-certified facility.
Therefore, selecting air compressors equipped with effective filtering systems
to eliminate impurities, including moisture, oil, and particles, is crucial.
Utilizing air compressors with stainless steel components is optimal, as it is
corrosion-resistant and easy to clean, thereby reducing the risk of product
contamination.
•
Low Noise Level:
Low noise levels are
critical when selecting air compressors for the food and beverage industry,
particularly in environments where noise reduction is essential for employee
comfort and regulatory compliance. Additionally, low noise levels are necessary
to prevent contamination. Quieter compressors minimize the possibility of
airborne particles and dust being stirred up during cleaning operations.
•
Compressed Air Quality Standards:
Compressed air utilized in
the food and beverage industry must meet specific quality standards.
Compressors must be equipped with suitable filtration and moisture removal
systems. ISO 8573-1 Quality Class 0 represents the highest quality compressed
air for use in food and beverage applications wherein compressed air is coming
in direct contact with the product, offering superior protection against
particle (including bacteria) and water contamination to ensure food hygiene
safety, with no risk of oil contamination. Monitoring compressed air quality
aids in reducing production downtime and increasing system reliability.
•
Reliability and Maintenance:
In the food and beverage
industry, downtime can incur significant costs; therefore, reliable operation
is paramount. Select air compressors from reputable manufacturers known for
their reliability, energy efficiency, and durability. Consider the ease of
maintenance and availability of service and spare parts to ensure continuous
operation with minimal downtime. Oil-free technology facilitates easier
maintenance and reduces operating costs by providing clear access to air
components.
One can make a decision of
selecting oil lubricated or oil free compressor based on whether compressed air
is coming in contact with the product or not. To know more and get better
understanding on the selection, please connect with Atlas Copco today!
