Oil Filters

This oil filter 92036219 is a critical component in the operation of an air compressor, particularly in oil-lubricated compressors. Its primary function is to remove contaminants from the oil that lubricates the various moving parts of the compressor. Here is how it works:

1. Contaminant Capture: As oil circulates through the compressor, it picks up various types of contaminants such as metal particles, dust, and other debris. The oil filter is designed to trap these contaminants as the oil passes through it.

2. Filter Media: The filter contains a medium, often made of paper, cotton, and a synthetic material, which has a complex structure with many small pores. These pores allow oil to pass through but trap contaminants that are larger in size.

3. Flow of Oil: When the compressor is running, the oil pump draws oil from the sump and sends it through the oil filter. The oil filter is typically located in the oil circuit between the pump and the moving parts of the compressor.

4. Pressure Drop: As the oil flows through the filter, the contaminants are trapped, and this can cause a pressure drop across the filter. This pressure drop is an indication that the filter is doing its job, but it also means that the filter will eventually need to be replaced when the pressure drop becomes too great, as this indicates that the filter is becoming clogged with contaminants.

5. By-Pass Valve: This valve allows unfiltered oil to bypass the filter and continue to lubricate the compressor. This is a safety feature to prevent damage to the compressor due to lack of lubrication, but it also means that once the by-pass valve opens, the filter needs to be replaced immediately to prevent damage from contaminants.