Tip #3 How Often Should You Replace Your Air Filter Cartridge?

To remain compliant with the Federal OSHA Regulation 29 CFR 1910.134 Compressor Operations for Breathing Air, the manufacturer recommends that filter cartridges should be inspected weekly or more frequently depending on usage and conditions of the air system in which the Radex Airline Filter is installed. Filter cartridges should be replaced every three months or 400 working hours based on a 40 hour week.

The filter cartridge must be replaced immediately if there is a large pressure drop across the filter or if odour or tastes are present in the air supplied to the respirator or if moisture is found at the outlet fittings.

The Radex™ filtration system meets CGA Grade – D specifications for air quality as adopted by OSHA regulations, when the components are used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions manual.  

Location of Your Air Supply
Your air supply compressor must be located in a safe, clean ambient air environment, constructed and situated to prevent entry of contaminated air into the air supply system and as detailed in OSHA Regulation (29 CFR 1910.134). This safe location must be tested periodically using the correct instruments to ensure clean ambient air on a consistent basis. If the compressor is moved, retesting of air is recommended.

Draining Moisture
Water can accummulate in the filter tank. This should be drained by opening the ball valve and should be drained every day. In very humid climates or if there is a large amount of water in the air supply, it is recommended to leave the ball valve partially open to bleed the moisture. When fitted with an auto drain, the moisture will automatically drain from the unit as particles which could casue blockages. 

Replacing Your Filter Cartridges
To replace your filter cartridge:

1. Shut off the air supply to the Radex Airline Filter and drain all the air from the body by opening the drain tap
2. Remove the bolts from the lid and separate the lid from the body
3. Remove the cartridge and dispose in an appropriate disposal area
4. Clean the inside of the filter body to remove any contaminants - do not clean with volatile chemicals
5. Insert a new filter cartridge and reassemble the lid and tighten the bolts to 10ft/lb torque
6. Record the data on the sticker supplied with the filter cartridge and place onto the Radex Airline Filter

Warnings

1. The Radex Airline Filter should be assembled, operated and maintained by trained and experienced users
2. Read all instructions and warnings before assembling and using the Radex Airline Filter. Failure to adhere to all instructions and warnings could result in serious injury or detah.
3. Do not connect the Radex Airline Filter to any air source unless you have confirmed that it supplies breathable grade air. Failure to connect the airline filter to the proper air source could result in injury or death.
4. Do not modify or alter the Radex Airline Filter. Use only genuine RPB Respiratory replacement parts. Use of non genuine parts could reduce filtration capabilities.
5. Do not remove the safety pressure relief valve. Air will be released when pressure in the filter exceeds 125 psig (860 kpa).
6. The Radex Airline Filter does not remove carbon monoxide (CO) or toxic fumes. Carbon monoxide alarms, monitoring devices or removal devices must be used in conjunction with the Radex Airline Filter.
7. Do not use the Radex Airline Filter if it has been damaged as the filter is a pressure vessel and damage to the vessel could cause fatigue that could result in serious injusry or dealth. Do not attempt to weld the filter unit.
8. If the Radex Airline Filter is being used in conjunction with abrasive blasting, do not use abrasives containing free silica. The use of silica sand can cause respiratory diseases that cause death. 
9. Always use NIOSH, CE or AS approved supplied air respirators. The type of supplied air respirator suitable for each application must be determined by your employer.
10. Always mount the Radex Airline Filter on a secure level surface.
11. Moisture must be drained on a regular basis to keep air supply free of moisture.
12. Do not loosen the bolts on the Radex Airline Filter lid while the unit is pressurised. All air must be drained from the filter and air supply to the inlet must be shut off compeltely before performing any work on the Radex Airline Filter.

View our range of Air Filtration and Monitoring Equipment.

To discuss your current requirements regarding your air quality and products required in creating your safe working environment, please get in touch. Thanks for checking out this week's tip and have a great day!