When it comes to air quality testing, we see the same question: “How do I get started and where do I go?”

Many professionals are eager to initiate the process but uncertain of the first steps. Trace Analytics recently hosted an educational webinar that dives into some of the most fundamental questions manufacturers have about compressed air quality testing. We invite you to review the event and experience a clear walkthrough on building a reliable testing strategy. Some of the key points are summarized below.

What is Compressed Air Quality Testing?

If you’re a first-time tester, you may be quite unfamiliar with what air testing truly entails. To put it simply, it’s a way to validate and verify that your compressed air is meeting your quality and safety requirements. This means confirming your air is free from particulates, water and oil vapors, and microorganisms – per ISO 8573. Unfortunately, these contaminants come from a variety of sources which makes knowing where to test just as important as what you’re testing for.

What am I Testing for, and Where?

Compressed air is essentially a “squashed” mix of the air we breathe everyday put under extreme pressure and transferred to a storage container. However, pressurized air doesn’t mean it’s magically purified. If the intake air is already dirty, the entire mix could be contaminated with oil, water, or particulate. Filthy air receivers or the old, corroded piping in your facility can also act as a breeding ground for risky microorganisms.

Most labs recommend sampling at strategic spots, mainly any site where air is used as each is considered a critical control point. Think compressor rooms and storage receivers as well as multiple areas across the facility to ensure your entire system is being monitored.

How Often Should I Test?

Quarterly air quality testing is the recommended baseline, aligning with industry standards and accounting for things like seasonal shifts. If you find you are at risk, testing every three months will capture the dynamics of your compressed air system and allow you to see how it acts year-round. Of course specific events such as regular maintenance or a suspected contamination issue should trigger extra testing.

Testing With an Accredited Lab

Trace Analytics is a third-party, ISO 17025-accredited lab, ensuring reliable testing results every time. Using ISO 8573 standards, our kits test for particulates, water, oil vapor, oil aerosol, gas purity, and microbes. Upon completion of the testing procedure, you’ll receive a clear report outlining sample results, specification limits, and whether your air passes or fails your compliance requirements.

What Comes Next?

If your tests have not met your required specifications, we are here to offer guidance on your next steps. We always suggest collaborating with your service provider to discuss solutions moving forward, but Trace Analytics has a network of providers willing to accommodate you if help is needed. Contaminated air first calls for identification of the source, remediation, and then consistent monitoring. Be sure to complete maintenance issues in a suitable timeframe and maintain routine testing in the months to come.