When exploring air compressors, you’ll encounter ISO air purity classes, which define acceptable levels of contaminants. Industries like food and beverage, medicine, and pharmaceutical manufacturing follow strict purity standards. That’s why, to meet ISO Class 0 for oil, you should use an oil-free compressor.

• ISO Class 0: 100% oil-free, the cleanest possible classification. Essential for preventing contamination and ensuring product safety.
• ISO Class 1: Allows up to 0.01 mg/m³ of oil at 1 BAR(A), 14.5 psia, and 20°C. Often marketed as “technically oil-free,” but still contains measurable oil traces.

Because of these differences, expert guidance is recommended when selecting oil-injected and oil-free compressors for your application.

Oil-free air is essential in industries where contamination could cause safety issues, product failures, or costly recalls, such as:

• Healthcare: by preventing contamination in medical procedures and sensitive equipment.
• Food processing: by avoiding product spoilage and ensuring food safety compliance.
• Pharmaceuticals: by maintaining product purity and protecting drug manufacturing integrity.
• Electronics manufacturing: by protecting delicate components from damage or defects.
• Oil and gas: by ensuring safe operation and protecting equipment from contamination-related failures.

To maintain optimal pressure dew point (PDP) and air quality, pairing your compressor with the right dryer is essential.

Desiccant Dryers (recommended for high-purity applications)

• Achieve PDP levels of –40°C and lower
• Ideal for food, beverage, medical, and pharmaceutical industries
• Remove moisture using hygroscopic materials (e.g., silica gel)
• Protect against microorganisms, rust and moisture-related equipment damage

Refrigerant Dryers

• Cool the air using the same principles as air conditioners
• Suitable for about 95% of general applications
• Not ideal for high-purity, high-risk sectors