Compressed Air Quality Standards for Food Industry

Preventing compressed air’s contamination is necessary within food and beverage industries. Contaminations can get in touch with the final product, risking damaging to the clients’ health and the company’s image.

The International Standard Organisation (ISO) has introduced the Class 0 standard, which is the most stringent air quality for limiting oil contamination in liquids, aerosols and vapours. This article provides insights on compressed air quality standards for the food industry, the common contaminants, the ISO 8573-1:2010 standard, and the methods to achieve food-grade compressed air.

Compressed air is applied in several phases within the food processing industry, such as sorting, cutting, canning, blowing off surfaces, and shaping consumables. When air is compressed, the concentration of contaminants and particles within the air becomes higher.

During air compression,  the risk of food contamination significantly increases. Ensuring compressed air is free from contaminants and pollution is crucial for maintaining the safety and quality of food products.

Air purity is heavily important when it comes on producing food. Being aware of what are the main compressed air contaminates is the first step to remove them.

Air’s contaminants that increase a risk to the quality of food include:

• Dirt and Dust: Particles that can enter the compressed air system from the surrounding environment.
• Rust Particles: Corrosion from the internal surfaces of the air compressor and piping.
• Pollen: Natural contaminants that can be drawn into the air compressor.
• Water Vapour: Moisture that can condense and cause microbial growth.
• Oil Vapour: Residue from lubricated compressors that can contaminate food products.
• Hydrocarbons: Organic compounds that can be harmful if ingested. 

The ISO 8573-1:2010 standard simplifies the process of choosing air filters by ranking classes of contaminants such as moisture, particulate, oil, and other pollutants in a compressed air stream. This standard is divided into three main groups of contaminants:

• Solid Particulates: Up to eight different purity classes.
• Water (both liquid and vapour): Up to ten different purity classes.
• Oil (both aerosols and vapour): Up to five different purity classes.

The lower the purity class number, the purer the air must be. For example, Class 0 is the highest level of air purity that you can achieve.

Achieving food-grade compressed air involves the following product in your compressed air system:

1. Oil-Free Air Compressors, to avoid harmful oil vapour and residue reaching food products.
2. Desiccant Air Dryers, which remove moisture from the compressed air, preventing microbial growth.
3. Particulate and Coalescent Filters, that remove solid particles and oil aerosols from the compressed air.

To maintain the required air purity, various filtration and drying methods are employed:

• Water Separators: Remove bulk water from the compressed air.
• Coalescent Filters: Remove oil and fine particulates.
• Particulate Filters: Remove solid particles from the compressed air.
• Sterile Filters: Remove microorganisms to ensure the air is free from biological contaminants.

Would you like to learn more on filtration? Read the article fully dedicated to compressed air filters.

All food processing facilities should adhere to safety guidelines for compressed air usage in food processing operations. Food industries must follow the national food standards on compressed air quality to grant clients’ safety.

Additionally, the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) provides a certification list that includes standards for compressed air quality, ensuring that food processing plants meet international safety requirements.

Maintaining high-quality compressed air in the food industry is essential for preventing contamination and ensuring the safety and quality of food products. By adhering to ISO 8573-1 standards, using oil-free air compressors, and employing effective filtration and drying methods, food processing facilities can achieve food-grade compressed air. Following the national guidelines and obtaining GFSI certification further ensures compliance with international safety standards.

For more information on achieving food-grade compressed air in your facility, contact a trusted provider of compressed air systems and accessories. Ensuring the highest standards of air quality will not only protect consumers but also enhance the reputation and reliability of your food products.