Fleetguard, a brand of Atmus Filtration Technologies, recently released a new high-efficiency air breather, a desiccant filter ideal for bulk fluid storage tank applications.
As air flows in and out of a storage unit or system, fluid tanks and machinery reservoirs are often susceptible to moisture and debris ingress that contaminates the supply source and the unit itself. Desiccant breathers are designed to replace standard tank-installed vents and filters during system operation and shutdown, the company said.
Composed of silica gel beads, polyurethane foam, and high-efficiency media, desiccant air breathers work to capture moisture and other harmful contaminants in fluid tanks from particle intrusion. This helps to reduce unplanned equipment downtime, lower equipment operating costs, and extend the service life of a system’s fluid by keeping it cleaner.
“The silica gel in our air breathers absorbs moisture and prevents the damaging results of any moisture entering and exiting the fluid storage system,” John Scheuren, Atmus technical advisor, said in a news release.
Fleetguard standard and extended life breathers also include dual-phase microglass filtration media, offering dirt-holding capabilities and low-pressure drop for small to large storage tanks. Additionally, all air breathers are available with optional check valves, providing greater protection while simultaneously extending breather life. Extended-life breathers are offered with optional inflow-only check valves, typically needed for larger reservoirs that are part of an active system and require higher airflow. This valve type requires the use of a flow adaptor to provide outward flow.
“Depending on the working environment, a check valve may be important in extending the life of a desiccant air breather,” Scheuren said. “Check valves facilitate airflow only when the system truly needs it. In high-moisture environments, a check valve will prevent continuous airflow, providing protection against airborne contamination and higher levels of humidity.”
A sizing tool is available on the Fleetguard website to help with determining the appropriate desiccant air breather filter easier. Customers will be able to input details regarding reservoir size, maximum airflow rate, and humidity levels to determine which filter is suitable for which system or unit.
Air breathers should be changed out when the silica gel has changed color, at least once per year, or if noticeable back pressure increases are evident. They are not suitable for high vibration, extreme low- or high-temperature environments, and systems with high alkalinity or acidity, the company said.