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Oil-Water Separator – Guide to OWS Filters, Condensate and Service Kits
An oil-water separator, also known as an OWS (Oil Water Separator), is used to treat condensate from compressed air systems. In oil-lubricated compressors, the condensate may contain water, oil and other contaminants, making proper condensate treatment an important part of a compressed air system.
But how does an oil-water separator work, when should the OWS filter be replaced, and how do you find the right service kit?
That is what we cover in this guide.
What Is an Oil-Water Separator?
An oil-water separator is a system used to separate oil from water-containing condensate from compressors and other compressed air equipment.
When air is compressed, condensate is produced. If the compressor is oil-lubricated, the condensate may also contain oil. The oil-water separator treats the condensate so that the oil is separated from the water.
The purpose is to reduce the oil content in the treated condensate so that the separated oil can be handled correctly.
Oil-water separators are available in many different sizes and models, and they use different types of filter elements.
How Does an OWS Oil-Water Separator Work?
The design varies from model to model, but the basic principle is generally the same.
Condensate from the compressed air system is directed into the oil-water separator. Here, the condensate passes through one or more filter media that retain or adsorb the oil.
The water continues through the system, while the oil is concentrated in the filter media.
However, the filter media has a limited capacity. As it gradually becomes saturated with oil, the filter elements need to be replaced.
This is why the OWS filter is an important part of the oil-water separator’s operation.
Why Does a Compressor Produce Condensate?
Air naturally contains moisture. When air is compressed and subsequently cooled, some of the moisture condenses into water.
It is therefore completely normal for a compressed air system to produce condensate.
In an oil-lubricated compressor, the condensate may also contain oil from the compressor’s oil circuit.
The amount of condensate depends on several factors, including:
* Compressor size
* Operating time
* Air humidity
* Temperature
* Compressor load
* Compressor type
The more condensate a system produces, the greater the load on the oil-water separator’s filter elements may be.
Why Does Condensate Contain Oil?
Oil-lubricated compressors use oil as part of their operation.
A small amount of oil may become entrained in the compressed air and later end up in the condensate.
This means that condensate from an oil-lubricated compressor can contain both water and oil.
An oil-water separator is designed to handle this type of condensate and reduce the oil content through filtration and separation.
Why Is the OWS Filter Important?
The filter elements are the part of the oil-water separator responsible for a significant part of the separation process.
Over time, the filter media become loaded with oil and other contaminants. Once the filter media have reached their capacity, they must be replaced.
Replacing the filter at the correct time is therefore an important part of maintaining an oil-water separator.
An OWS filter should not be considered a permanent filter. It is a consumable component that needs to be replaced at appropriate intervals.
When Should an OWS Filter Be Replaced?
The exact replacement interval depends on the specific oil-water separator and the conditions under which it operates.
Factors that can affect filter life include:
* Compressor size
* Number of operating hours
* Amount of condensate produced
* Oil consumption
* Oil type
* Operating temperature
* System load
* Oil-water separator capacity
There is therefore no single universal replacement interval for all OWS filters.
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific separator.
Signs That the OWS Filter Should Be Checked
If the filter has been in operation longer than the recommended service interval, it should be checked and, if necessary, replaced.
It may also be relevant to check the filter in the event of:
* Irregular operation
* Signs of leakage
* Problems with condensate drainage
* Suspected insufficient separation
* An overdue service interval
If in doubt, follow the manufacturer’s service instructions.
What Is an OWS Service Kit?
An OWS service kit is a set of filter elements and any other necessary components used to service an oil-water separator.
Service kits are normally designed for specific OWS series or models.
This means that you cannot simply choose a filter based on its size or appearance. The filter must be compatible with the specific oil-water separator.
A correct service kit makes it easier to carry out scheduled maintenance and replace filter elements that have reached their service interval.
How Do I Find the Right OWS Filter?
The most important thing when looking for a new OWS filter is to identify the oil-water separator in which the filter will be installed.
Start by finding:
* Manufacturer’s name
* Model designation
* Type or serial number
* Existing filter
* Original spare part number, if available
You can then use this information to find the compatible service kit.
It is important not to choose a filter simply because it appears to fit physically. The filter size, filter media and design must be suitable for the specific separator.
Find the right filter for your oil-water separator
Once you know the manufacturer and model, you can find the right OWS service kit for your oil-water separator.
Here, you can compare the different options and check which service kit is suitable for your specific separator.
This makes it easier to find a compatible alternative to the existing filter.
If you are unsure which OWS filter or service kit is suitable for your oil-water separator, feel free to contact us. We can help you find the right match based on the manufacturer, model and, if available, the spare part number.
OWS Filters for Different Manufacturers
Oil-water separators are available from many different manufacturers, and different filter elements are used depending on the model and series.
You should therefore always check compatibility before ordering a new OWS filter.
It is particularly important to check the model number if you want to replace an existing filter with a compatible alternative.
A correct match between the separator and filter is essential to ensure that the service kit is suitable for the specific installation.
What Is the Difference Between an OWS, Oil Separator and Oil-Water Separator?
There are several different terms used for oil-water separators and their applications. You may come across terms such as:
* OWS
* OWS separator
* Oil-water separator
* Oil/water separator
* Oil separator
* Oil-water separator
* Condensate separator
OWS stands for Oil Water Separator.
Although the terminology may vary, it is important to look at the specific type and model of the separator when you need to find a filter or service kit.
Why Does Oil-Containing Condensate Need to Be Treated?
Condensate from an oil-lubricated compressor may contain oil and other contaminants.
It must therefore be handled correctly and in accordance with applicable regulations.
An oil-water separator is used to reduce the oil content in condensate through a separation process.
The specific requirements for handling and discharging condensate depend on local conditions and applicable regulations. Always follow the relevant regulatory requirements and the manufacturer’s instructions.
An oil-water separator does not in itself guarantee that condensate can be discharged without additional requirements. It is important that the system is used and maintained correctly.
Maintaining an Oil-Water Separator
An OWS should form part of the regular maintenance of the compressed air system.
1. Check the Model and Type
Make sure you know the manufacturer and model of the oil-water separator.
2. Check the Service Interval
Find the manufacturer’s recommended interval for replacing the filter elements.
3. Check the Filter
Check whether the filter elements have reached their expected service life.
4. Check the Separator
Look for any signs of leakage, damage or other operating problems.
5. Replace the OWS Service Kit
When the filter elements need to be replaced, use a service kit that is compatible with the specific OWS model.
What Happens If the OWS Filter Is Not Replaced?
Filter media can only absorb a limited amount of oil.
When the filter becomes saturated, the performance of the oil-water separator may be affected.
If the service interval is exceeded, the same filtration performance as a new filter cannot be expected.
Regular replacement of the OWS filter is therefore an important part of ongoing maintenance.
Should I Choose an Original or Compatible OWS Filter?
When an OWS filter needs to be replaced, there may be several options available.
The most important consideration is that the selected filter is compatible with the specific oil-water separator and has the necessary properties for the intended application.
A compatible OWS service kit can be an alternative to the manufacturer’s original service kit.
When choosing a compatible filter, always check the manufacturer, model, filter type and, if available, the spare part number to ensure that the service kit is suitable for the separator.
Find Your OWS Service Kit at EKO-Filters
Does the filter in your oil-water separator need to be replaced?
Start by finding the manufacturer and model of your OWS separator. You can then find the relevant service kit based on compatibility.
→ View our range of OWS service kits
Here you will find EKO-Filters’ range of compatible OWS service kits for different oil-water separators.
If you are unsure which filter is suitable for your separator, you can use the model designation and the information on the existing filter as a starting point.
FAQ About Oil-Water Separators and OWS Filters
What Is an Oil-Water Separator?
An oil-water separator is a system used to treat oil-containing condensate from oil-lubricated compressors and other equipment. The separator reduces the oil content in the condensate so that the oil can be handled separately.
What Is an OWS Filter?
An OWS filter is a filter element used in an oil-water separator to separate oil from water-containing condensate.
When Should an OWS Filter Be Replaced?
It depends on the separator model and operating conditions. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service interval and replace the filter when it has reached its expected capacity or service life.
How Do I Find the Right OWS Filter?
Find the manufacturer, model and, if available, the spare part number on your oil-water separator or existing filter. Then use this information to find a compatible OWS service kit.
Are OWS Filters Universal?
No. OWS filters are available in different sizes, designs and filter media. The filter must therefore be compatible with the specific oil-water separator.
What Is the Difference Between an OWS and an Oil Separator?
OWS stands for Oil Water Separator and is used to describe systems that separate oil from water-containing condensate. Terms such as oil separator and oil-water separator are also used in connection with this type of equipment.
Why Does a Compressor Produce Condensate?
Air contains moisture. When air is compressed and subsequently cooled, the moisture condenses and turns into water. On oil-lubricated compressors, the condensate may also contain oil.
Why Does the Filter in an Oil-Water Separator Need to Be Replaced?
Filter media have a limited capacity. They absorb oil and other contaminants over time and must therefore be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommended service interval.
Can I Use a Compatible OWS Service Kit?
Yes, a compatible service kit can be used when it is designed for the specific oil-water separator and meets the relevant requirements for the application.
Where Can I Find an OWS Service Kit?
At EKO-Filters, you can find service kits for a range of different oil-water separators. Use the manufacturer and model of your separator to find the compatible service kit.