Water Traps

Water Traps for Air Compressors

Water traps for air compressors are essential components in compressed air systems, designed to remove moisture, condensate and airborne contaminants before the air reaches tools, machinery or production equipment. Controlling moisture is critical in industrial and commercial environments, where water in compressed air can cause corrosion, reduced efficiency and equipment failure.

Commonly used in manufacturing, automotive, construction and workshop applications, water traps help ensure clean, dry air is delivered to the point of use.

How Water Traps Work

When air is compressed, moisture naturally condenses and mixes with dust, oil particles and debris drawn into the system. A water trap removes this contamination using a combination of filtration and mechanical separation.

• Pre-filtration removes dirt, dust and solid particles
• Centrifugal separation forces water droplets outward, separating them from the airflow
• Collection chamber or drain captures and discharges the condensate

The separated water is collected in a bowl or reservoir and discharged via a manual or automatic drain, while clean compressed air continues downstream.

Types of Water Traps

There are several types of water traps available depending on system requirements and air quality standards:

• Centrifugal water separators – ideal for removing bulk liquid water from compressed air lines
• Coalescing filters – remove fine water droplets and oil aerosols for higher air purity
• Filter-regulator units (FRLs) – combine moisture removal with pressure control at point of use

Coalescing water traps are particularly popular in industrial settings, offering high filtration efficiency with low maintenance requirements.

Why Moisture Removal Is Important

• Prevents corrosion in pipework and air receivers
• Protects pneumatic tools and machinery
• Reduces maintenance costs and downtime
• Improves product quality in sensitive applications
• Maintains consistent system performance

Without adequate moisture control, water can accumulate in air lines, damage valves and cylinders, and compromise overall system reliability.

Water Traps at Compressed Air Systems UK

With over 30 years of experience, Compressed Air Systems UK supplies reliable water traps, air line separators and compressed air filtration solutions to suit a wide range of systems and industries.