With the arrival of spring, it's crucial to ensure your air inlet system is in top condition to face the seasonal rain and storms. Winter can be harsh, and your system needs to be ready for spring showers and the high demands of summer. Start your spring maintenance with these key inspection steps:
Evaluate the Pressure Drop in the Inlet System:
- Check if the pressure drop is approaching the filter change-out threshold.
- Assess if past storms have caused an increase in pressure drop.
Remember, aging filters often struggle with pressure drop spikes during storms.
Inspect Filters for Damage:
- Look for corrosion damage on metal parts.
- Look for holes, tears, or any breach in the filter media.
- Check for any deformation in the filter pleats.
Correct installation is crucial. Poorly installed filters can allow particulates to bypass, reducing engine performance.
If you discover any of the issues above, consider upgrading to rain-resistant filters like the CamGT (static) or TurboPulse GTC (pulse). These filters have been engineered for challenging environments: hydrophobic filter and media construction to repel water, full plastic builds for corrosion resistance, and improved seals to significantly reduce water bypass. Both the CamGT and TurboPulse are designed to maintain stable pressure drop and high efficiency, making them superior options for areas frequently experiencing extreme weather conditions.
Check the Filter House for Leaks/Bypass:
- Examine expansion joints and duct connections for any leaks or bypass issues.
Remember, even the best filters can't fully protect against fouling and corrosion if there are leaks, leading to performance drops and reduced compressor efficiency.
For air intake systems prone to water ingress, consider a minor retrofit with weather louvres or rain hoods to prevent water entry.
Inspect All Gaskets for Wear and Tear:
- Pay close attention to door seal gaskets. Over time, these can become displaced, and compression set may cause leakage.
- Additionally, while less common, it's important to monitor the mating flange gaskets, which are crucial for sealing two systems together. Over time, these gaskets can experience a decrease in compression effectiveness, potentially compromising the seal.
For any damage seen, gaskets should be replaced at the next available maintenance opportunity.
Unsure About Your Filters?
At Camfil, we are committed to ensuring your air inlet systems operate at peak efficiency and reliability. By requesting a site analysis, you’ll gain access to our team of experienced environmental and filtration experts who are ready to assist with in-depth assessments and recommendations to meet your specific needs.
This spring, take proactive steps to ensure your air inlet system is storm-ready and functioning at its best!
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