Booster Compressor Users - what are you using for a low side moisture filter?

[Maineiac]

I've got an Altaros booster on the way and I've got my shop compressor and high pressure filter figured out but I'm stuck on what to do for moisture filtering on the low pressure side. I'm a low volume compressor user (mostly tires and such) so I don't have a fancy shop - just a compressor and a hose in my garage.

However, I'm willing to learn! I'd love to get some ideas on how best to get water out of the line before it gets to the booster or any future tools I may acquire.

I don't have the ability to rig up an elaborate pipe setup so I'm probably going to need to use hoses and mount any filter I get on my workbench pegboard.

 

[Paio]

I am too in the same page. Need some guidance on the best moisture extract system on the low side. Preferably before the compressor if possible. 

 

[Maineiac]

"Paio"I am too in the same page. Need some guidance on the best moisture extract system on the low side. Preferably before the compressor if possible.

I don't think you can filter before the shop compressor. I believe it goes between the compressor and your Altaros/AV/Shoebox.

 

[intenseaty22]

I just got the AV booster a few days ago. Will do a full write up later on. It comes with a water separator. Pretty worthless. Bought some more filter/separators that I intend on installing soon. They are on the cheap end. Will update then. I figure if the AV separator is not collecting water, then I will be safe. 

 

[intenseaty22]

Look up Dodge 3500's write up on his setup. I don't really know how to link his post to here. It's called "Up and running shoebox f8 compressor "

 

[Maineiac]

"intenseaty22"I just got the AV booster a few days ago. Will do a full write up later on. It comes with a water separator. Pretty worthless. Bought some more filter/separators that I intend on installing soon. They are on the cheap end. Will update then. I figure if the AV separator is not collecting water, then I will be safe.

Thanks for the update! I'm still debating on what to do. Wondering if just a desiccant dryer is enough? Or if I should get a filter/separator also?

I'm also toying around with the idea of using some RapidAir hose (https://www.amazon.com/Rapidair-90500-Master-2-Inch-100-Feet/dp/B0015A11U2) to build myself something with a a couple vertical runs and moisture traps at the bottom... or if I should just run a flex hose from the compressor.

I'm gonna go look for that post you mentioned now.

 

[intenseaty22]

This is really all new to me, but I try and read a lot and learn as much as I can. So this is the game plan: got a 5.1 CFM Husky compressor will run the hose into a small fridge I got gor free, it works, so will punch holes in it and patch with expanding foam. Will then feed into one filter/separator (cheap Husky from Home Depot) then the other, and finally into the AV compressor. If all that still yields water at the AV separator, then I will add more filters, desiccant filter, etc. 

 

[Maineiac]

"intenseaty22"This is really all new to me, but I try and read a lot and learn as much as I can. So this is the game plan: got a 5.1 CFM Husky compressor will run the hose into a small fridge I got gor free, it works, so will punch holes in it and patch with expanding foam. Will then feed into one filter/separator (cheap Husky from Home Depot) then the other, and finally into the AV compressor. If all that still yields water at the AV separator, then I will add more filters, desiccant filter, etc.

That sounds like a solid plan. I purchased the same compressor (30 gal 5.1 CFM Husky from HD) and I'll be interested in your fill times with the AV booster compared to the Altaros.

My plan is to use a filter/separator and a desiccant filter before the booster and then a high pressure filter between the booster and the tank.

 

[Dirte]

I have a Shoebox that I bring it to work and run it through a large professional air drying system used to operate valves in a natural gas plant. We measure it with some expensive analyzers, the dew point is always in the negative numbers. Cold air holds less water than warm air and changes it during the season. After the compressor, it drops out liquid in a separator and then goes to a desiccant/sieve and out to the line. The only difference between home and here is it is a large system, nothing fancy. We can also regenerate and heat/dry our descant/sieve as it swaps between tanks. So the main thing is keeping up with the descant. Some change colors to give a visual. You can replace it, or some can be put in a oven and regenerated. Always use some sort of separator before the dryer, or it will immediately soak the the media. Oh one other thing....... Tap on occasion what ever you use your media in. It tends to channel through it. Blowing it down can also loosen it up. I guess fluff it up so to speak.
I like the idea that Joe B Alpha filter does on the high pressure side also.

 

[intenseaty22]

I will try and do a run and post feedback later on. I'm filling a 75cf Omega. The first/only time I did it, I ran the compressors in increments of 15-20 mins, then rested the system for a while. So I lost track of time. But, it took a good long time, maybe 2 hours? Will try to time better next time. 

 

[dodge3500]

Here's the link to look at my low pressure side moisture filters.
thanks
http://www.airgunnation.com/topic/up-and-running-shoebox-f8-compressor/

 

[Maineiac]

"dodge3500"Here's the link to look at my low pressure side moisture filters.
thanks
http://www.airgunnation.com/topic/up-and-running-shoebox-f8-compressor/

Thanks! This helped!

I've ordered a water separator, desiccant filter, and general purpose 5 micron filter to go between my compressor and the booster. Now I just need my hoses and fittings and the project will be complete!

 

[dodge3500]

Sweet.