COMPRESSED AIR M
oisture, oil and particulate contamination can cause visible defects, reduce the lifespan of critical components and lower process efficiency in glass production. However, clean
air and gases can help to reduce maintenance requirements, improve yield and support a consistent, high-quality product. Glass production often demands air purity in line with ISO 8573-1, the global standard for compressed air purity that provides a clear framework for managing air quality. Compressed air systems should, therefore, be designed to help meet these requirements by reducing particulates, moisture, oil aerosols and vapours.
PURIFICATION COMPONENTS include dryers that reduce moisture content by lowering the Pressure Dew Point (PDP). They are essential in a wide variety of industries where moisture, rust or contamination in the air supply can compromise equipment or product quality. low PDP helps prevent condensation, protects downstream components and supports stable process conditions.
moisture, oil aerosols and solid contaminants from the compressed air stream. For glass to prevent oil mists from entering the forming process, where they could ignite in the extreme air quality targets such as Class 1 per ISO 8573- 1, with performance characteristics validated under ISO 12500 test methods. They are critical to support forming, control and automation systems, and the operational lifespan of downstream components.
odour-free air for sensitive applications throughout the glass production facility. These systems support environments where even trace amounts of lubricant or atmospheric contaminants could lead to quality failures. In glass manufacturing, oil-free Class 1 air is often the production of optical or pharmaceutical- grade glass. Any oil carryover from the compressor can cause microscopic surface defects or fogging, impacting product clarity.
MAINTAIN SYSTEM PERFORMANCE AND MINIMISE DOWNTIME In glass manufacturing, the integrity of a compressed air system is fundamental to operational continuity. Because air is often in direct contact with the product, any degradation in air quality or system pressure can result in immediate batch rejection or equipment failure. Direct contact examples include forming, leak testing, internal cooling, air knives and coating processes. The following two elements are, therefore,
WHY COMPRESSED AIR IS FUNDAMENTAL TO THE GLASS PRODUCTION PROCESS
By Louis Cottaz, Product Manager, Donaldson
Compressed air and technical gases are essential for the glass industry. From forming and cooling to handling and inspection, clean and dry air helps maintain process efficiency and consistent glass product quality
essential for maintaining compressed air system performance and minimising downtime.
1. Scheduled inspections – the primary method for identifying system deviations before they develop into failures or performance losses. In a manufacturing context, these inspections focus on leak detection, differential pressure monitoring and regular air quality audits.
2. Preventative maintenance – a proactive programme designed to replace wear- rather than waiting for a breakdown. Key condensate management and checking gasket and seal integrity.
OPERATIONAL CONTINUITY Compressed air and technical gases are fundamental to the modern glass manufacturing line, these gases are essential for maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic quality of However, the reliability of these processes depends on air purity and system pressure. Contaminants such as oil, moisture and particulates could present challenges such as visible product defects, combustion instability or
12 APRIL 2026 | FACTORY&HANDLINGSOLUTIONS
and the premature failure of sensitive pneumatic components. Adhering to strict ISO 8573-1 purity standards through the use of specialised helps to support consistent yields and protect downstream equipment. Ultimately, the operational continuity of a
glass production facility relies on a proactive approach to system health. The integration of scheduled inspections and preventative maintenance helps manufacturers to transition towards condition-based maintenance to help minimise unplanned downtime and prevent batch rejection while supporting energy
Donaldson
www.donaldson.com
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