If you’re looking for the best air compressor water separator, look no further. In this post, we’ll introduce you to the top 9 water separators on the market today and help you choose the right one for your needs.
Nothing can be worse than getting contaminants in your air compressor. Water vapor, Pipe scales, Rust, oil, or solid particles are the primary contaminants that grow and damage your compressor and other tools.
Also, these can create hinders to getting your job done with a compressor. Water separators are the only solution to these problems.
What is a Water Separator?
A water separator is an important piece of equipment for any air compressor. It helps to remove moisture from compressed air before it enters the storage tank. This prevents rust and corrosion inside the tank, which can lead to expensive repairs down the road.
How does a water separator for air compressor work?
It works by using either a coalescing or centrifugal type filter to get rid of any water vapor or mist that may be present in the system before it reaches the tools or other equipment.
Coalescing type: How does it work?
This type of separator uses a filter element to remove oil mist, dust particles, and other contaminants from the compressed air stream. The coalescing filter element consists of a series of thin plates that gradually collect contaminants as they pass through them. When these contaminants build up on the surface of the plates, they form larger droplets which are then removed from the airflow by gravity.
Coalescing filters typically have very high efficiency ratings and can be used in applications where oil-free or clean dry Air Is required such as in food processing or painting operations.
Centrifugal: How does it work?
This kind of separator uses a spinning disc to separate moisture from compressed air. As the contaminated air stream enters the separator, it is spun at high speed inside the unit. The centrifugal force generated by this spinning motion causes the heavier water droplets to be forced outward and away from the center of the disc while the lighter contaminants are left behind in the airflow.
Centrifugal separators typically have lower efficiency ratings than coalescing filters but they can be used in applications where oil-free or clean dry Air Is not required.
Editor Pick: Best Water Separator for Air Compressor
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Top 9 Best Air Compressor Water Separator Reviews in the Market
When choosing an air compressor water separator, it is important to consider both its efficiency rating and its maximum operating pressure. You should also take into account whether you need a portable or stationary unit and what types of contaminants will be present in your compressed Air stream. By taking all of these factors into consideration, you can be sure to choose the best water separator for an air compressor for your specific needs.
1. NANPU- Best Water Trap for Air Compressor
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To remove solid and liquid particles from the air supply, you need a high-performance inline water filter for the air compressor. The NANPU 3/8″ NPT air filter is such a separator that can effectively trap liquid and solid particles. That’s why we call it the best water trap for air compressor tools.
Its 5 Micron Brass Filter Element will deliver a superior filtering experience. Besides, the Semi-Automatic Drain clears the contaminants smoothly when the air supply is off.
With its 145-PSI pressure capacity and 60 SCFM Airflow Rate, it can withstand decent pressure. In addition, the polycarbonate Bowl with Metal Guard provides longevity by smoothly withstanding higher pressure.
You will have a Self-Relieving Pressure Regulator to adjust the pressure automatically. Moreover, its lubricator delivers oil to the Pneumatic Tool and enhances the lifespan of your expensive tools.
2. NANPU DFR 04- Best Automatic Water Separator for Air Compressor
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NANPU DFR-04 sight glass 1/2″ NPT thread Air Drying System is a heavy-duty model to work with heavy-duty compressors. With a maximum Operating Pressure of 145 psi, it can comfortably handle high pressure. Polycarbonate Bowl with Metal Guard adds more strength to withstand higher power.
Besides, Aluminum construction provides sustainability in this automatic Water Separator for Air compressors. You will also have a built-in bracket that makes the fitting sturdier and tighter. Installation is easy as well. Apart from that, this Compressor Filter Dryer feature a Double 5 Micron Filter element.
The filter for the air compressor protects the compressor from solid and liquid contaminants. Excreting is extremely comfortable for its semi-Auto Drain. It will excrete automatically when pressure is off. So overall, to remove water contaminants from the compressor, this separator will work fine.
3. Neiko 30252A- Best Water and Oil Separator for Air Line
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If your concern is to get the best water separator air compressor, consider the Neiko 30252A Water and Oil Separator. You will find both 90 PSI and 150 PSI Maximum Air Pressure options to pick from according to your needs.
This Air Compressor Water Filter is designed to trap and remove water, oil, dust, and particles. Thus it prolongs the lifespan of your air machines. Besides, it is aluminum housing and brass fittings fit perfectly and deliver superior performance.
Cleaning the pollutants is easier with its transparent polycarbonate housing. You can see the amount of dirt inside the housing. Also, its Manual Drain system with an easy release valve provides an easy cleaning facility. Moreover, lightweight construction makes it comfortable to install.
4. Hromee- Best Air Compressor Oil Water Separator
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Hromee 1/4 Inch Air Compressor Filter Regulator is another excellent option to clean Moisture Vapor and fine particles. You will also have dry air to prevent air tool damage. With its 150-PSI maximum pressure, you can use this compressed air line water filter with most of the most powerful air devices.
Besides, the Cast Aluminum Metal quick-release bowl withstands tough pressure. On the flip side, its adjustable pressure control knob helps you control the pressure and makes it compatible with other air tools. The pressure gauge delivers accurate readings for precise operation.
Apart from that, its ball valve is made of durable forged brass. You can expect a longer lifespan since it can withstand high pressure and temperature. Furthermore, the manual drain system with a transparent filter cup makes it easier to clean the water and oil.
5. LE LEMATEC- Best Inline Water Separator for Air Compressor
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When you need a separator that can work with any air compressors, consider LE LEMATEC Air Compressor and Oil Water Separator.
This air filter can easily remove dirt oil and moisture to keep your tools safe. Besides, its aluminum construction with solid brass fittings withstands higher pressure.
You can use it for any air tool with 90 PSI to 150 PSI. Featuring a 1/4 inch male and Female Inlet, it ensures a perfect fit. Cleaning is easier and faster with the push-button drain valve. Simply push the button and eject dirt and water from your pneumatic tool.
You use your air tool from a different angle, right? This air filter also works at any angle making it compatible with your air appliances. You can use these oil-water separators for paint guns, plasma cutters, or air compressors smoothly.
6. Mudder- Best Compressed Air Water Separator
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If you need a water separator for your plasma cutting work, consider the Water Airbrush Filter from Mudder. You will get three water oil separators to effectively clean oil dirt and water vapor.
Besides, its push-button drain valve makes dirt cleaning easier regularly. You can even see how much dirt has grown on its transparent body.
With its working maximum air pressure of 90 PSI, it is suitable for almost any high-pressure air tool. Installation is super easy; you can install it yourself.
Since it comes in standard universal male and female inlet and outlet port, it fits perfectly in your plasma cutter. The construction is sturdy enough with its aluminum valve body and solid brass fittings.
7. TCP Global- Best Air Compressor for Water Separator for Painting
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For painting sprays, having a decent water separator that can separate oil too is an advantage. That’s what you will get from this TCP global oil and water separator. It features 2 premium mini in-line air filters that will smoothly remove dirt, oil, and water.
Besides, you will get a transparent reservoir. It will show the accumulated contaminants so that you can clear those in time to prevent tool damage. Along with that, the push button drain release valve allows cleaning all the dirt with one push.
Its 1/4″ air inlet and outlet fit perfectly in your pneumatic tools such as pain sprays, air hoses, and others. Apart from that, the construction is durable to let you enjoy a higher service life span.
To conclude, this one is an ideal option to pick for its effective filters, transparent reservoir, and other functions.
8. Le Lematec Air Compressor Water Separator
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Is your concern to get a filter with an air compressor water separator. Then look no further but this Le Lematec water separator.
It can effectively trap and clean Oil Vapor, dirt, and water to keep your compressor Tank and other air tools safe. The compact and sleek design makes it perfectly compatible with different tools, even in the most complex design.
In addition, its 1/4 inch male and female inlet ensure perfect fittings. Besides, it is made of zinc materials that tough pressure and provide longevity. You can easily use this separator for up to 90-PSI maximum working pressure.
The Push-button drain valve makes it quick to clear the accumulated dirt. You can keep moisture Levels and dirt levels down in your air tools smoothly with this amazing separator.
9. Hotusi- Best Moisture Separator for Air Compressor
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The search for the best air compressor moisture filter ends with the Hotusi 1/4″ BSP water separator. With a 30-120PSI pressure variation, it becomes suitable for air compressors as well as other air tools. You can control the pressure with its air filter regulator.
The maximum pressure capacity is 130-PSI which shows its durability against high pressure. Besides, the airflow rate of 26 CFM Flow shows its efficiency. With its 1/4″ BSP design, it will likely be fitted in most tools.
You can trap small particles up to 40 microns to keep the air clean and enhance the lifespan of air tools. Apart from that, the small size with a lightweight design makes it comfortable to install. Maintenance is easier as well for its low-profile functionalities.
Why You Need a Water Separator Air Compressor?
If you plan on using an air compressor in an environment where there is moisture present, then it is important to have a water separator installed. This is because moisture can cause issues with the performance of your air compressor and also lead to rust and corrosion over time.
What Are The Benefits Of Using A Water Separator?
There are several benefits to using a water separator on your air compressor including:
Improved performance: By removing moisture from the airstream, your air compressor will not have to work as hard which can improve its overall performance.
Longer life span: As mentioned previously, moisture can cause rust and corrosion over time which can shorten the lifespan of your machine. By using a water separator, you can protect your investment and extend its life significantly.
Cost savings: An inefficient or damaged air compressor can end up costing you more money in repairs or replacement costs down the road. By using a water separator, you can keep your machine running smoothly and avoid these costly repairs.
How do you filter water from an air compressor?
If you have an air compressor, you may be wondering how to filter the water that comes out of it. There are a few different ways to do this, and the best method will depend on the type of air compressor you have.
If you have a gas-powered air compressor, you can attach a small inline filter to the outlet hose. This will remove any moisture from the compressed air before it reaches your tools or equipment.
For electric air compressors, there is usually a built-in filter somewhere on the unit. You may need to consult your owner’s manual to find out where this is located.
Another option for filtering water from an electric air compressor is to use a separate condensation trap. These traps can be placed inline with the outlet hose or at the end of it. They work by cooling down the hot compressed air as it exits the unit, which causes any moisture in it to condense into liquid form inside the trap.
What is the difference between water separator and moisture separator?
A water separator is a device that removes water from a compressed air stream. Moisture separators are devices that remove both liquids and solid contaminants from a compressed air stream.
Water separators work by allowing water to condense and drip from the compressed air stream while it is being released into a tank. The water droplets are then caught in a container at the bottom of the unit. Moisture separators work by passing the compressed air stream through a series of baffles or plates that remove both liquids and solid contaminants.
Advantages:
The advantage of using a water separator is that it can be used with oil-free compressors, which do not require lubrication. Moisture separators are more effective at removing both liquid and solid contaminants than water separators, making them ideal for use in applications where compressed air quality is critical.
Buying Guides – Everyone should know these before buying a water separator
There are all sorts of different factors that need to be taken into consideration when trying to choose the best water separator for your needs.
The first thing that you should think about is what kind of filter element you want – coalescing or centrifugal. Once you’ve decided on that, then it’s time to look at things like maximum operating pressure and efficiency rating. Here are more things you need to consider:
Water Separator Types:
There are two main types of water separators that you can choose from:
- Coalescing- This type of separator uses a series of filters to remove the moisture from the air. These filters are designed to capture the water droplets and release them into a drain line.
- Centrifugal– This type of separator uses spinning discs to separate the moisture from the air. The heavier water droplets are spun outwards away from the air stream while the lighter air is drawn inwards.
Air Compressor Drain System:
Drain systems are an important part of any air compressor, but they are often overlooked. A quality drain system will help to remove water and oil from your air compressor, which can extend its life and improve its performance.
Here are some things to look for in a quality drain system:
- Automatic Drain Valve – An automatic drain valve is a must-have for any air compressor. This type of valve will open when the moisture level gets too high, allowing the water to be drained away quickly and easily.
- Check Valve – A check valve is also a good idea as it will prevent moisture from back flowing into the compressor when the automatic drain valve opens.
- Pressure Relief Valve – A pressure relief valve is another helpful component as it can release pressure build-up before it becomes dangerous.
Flow rate:
The flow rate is important because it will determine how much moisture can be removed from the air stream. If you have a high-powered air compressor, then you will need a higher flow rate to keep up with demand. The flow rate is typically measured in gallons per minute (GPM).
Air inlet:
The size of the air inlet will determine the flow rate of your compressor. A larger air inlet allows more air to enter the compressor, which can be helpful if you have a high-powered machine.
Also, it determines whether it will fit your air tool or not. There are various sizes of air inlets available on the market. So pick a water separator according to the size.
So be wise and know the size first and pick the right one for your needs.
Efficiency:
Look for a model that has high efficiency ratings so that you can be sure it will do its job well. A good way to measure this is by looking at how often the unit needs to be replaced or serviced as this will give you an indication of its overall quality.
Durability:
You are not going to use the separator for one time, right? So you must purchase one that offers higher durability. To ensure that, make sure to pick one that offers a metal Guard.
Also, Construction plays the most important role to withstand all the pressure. So be sure to check it before buying.
Maintenance:
As with any type of machinery, it is important to look for a water separator that is easy to maintain. This will save you time and money in the long run. Look for models that come with an automatic drain valve so that you can easily remove any collected moisture.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Have a look at these commonly asked questions below.
Do I need a water separator for my air compressor?
If your air compressor is going to be used in a dusty environment, then you will need a water separator. A water separator removes moisture from the air before it enters the compressor. This prevents rust and corrosion inside the compressor.
Where do you put the water separator on an air compressor?
The water separator on an air compressor is typically located near the top of the unit, just below the pressure gauge.
It is a small cylindrical device with a plastic or metal housing and two hoses coming out of the top.
Inside the separator is a series of baffles that help to remove water droplets from compressed air as it passes through. A drain valve at the bottom allows for easy removal of any collected water.
Where to install a water separator on the air compressor?
You need to custom install the water separator before the air tank in the compressor system. It will prevent any water, oil, or dirt from entering the compressor tank.
Check full guides and installation process: install a water separator.
How do you stop water buildup in an air compressor?
There are a few things you can do to help prevent water buildup in your air compressor. One is to drain the unit regularly, at least once a week or more if it’s used frequently.
Another is to use an airline filter/dryer – this will help remove moisture from the air before it gets into the compressor.
Finally, make sure that you’re using good quality compressed air tools and accessories. If they’re not designed properly they can allow moisture into the system more easily.
Final Verdict
Installing a water separator is a great way to remove moisture from the compressed air system and prevent any rusting or peeling that could occur over time. These devices come in both coalescing and centrifugal varieties, so be sure to choose the one that will best fit your needs.
Once you have decided on which model to go with, also take into account things like maximum operating pressure and efficiency rating while also considering whether you need a portable unit or if stationary will suffice.
Also, the best air compressor water separator will depend on the type and size of your compressor, as well as the moisture content of your compressed air. We hope this post has helped you narrow down the options and choose the right unit for your needs.