Compressed air contamination is a potentially expensive problem, but fortunately one that is easily solved. 

There are three typical types of contaminants:

1. Solid particles, such as dust, are present in atmospheric air and may also originate with corroded or oxidized piping.  Eighty percent of atmospheric particular contamination is smaller than 2 microns and therefore passes easily through compressor intake filters.  Particulate contamination will cause pneumatic equipment malfunctions, instrument and control failures, and will contaminate end products.

2. Water droplets condense from the humidity in ambient air.  Water will oxidize pipes and pneumatic equipment, dilute and wash away lubricants, and ruin paint finishes and end products.

3. Oil and oil vapors are introduced by compressor lubricants and by hydrocarbon vapors present in ambient air.  Oil-free compressed air is particularly important in medical, food and pharmaceutical processes.