Air preparation units FRL
Items are being added
KIT is adding items to this category. If you need a specific part, please send a quote request.
Frequently asked questions
What makes up an FRL and in what order is it installed?
An FRL is a Filter, Regulator and Lubricator, installed in that order along the air flow. The arrow on the body shows flow direction, and reversed units will not work. Many modern components are pre-lubricated for life, so a filter-regulator alone is often enough.
Should I choose a 5 micron or a 0.01 micron filter?
A 5 micron element is enough for ordinary cylinders and valves. Fine 0.3 and 0.01 micron coalescing filters remove oil mist for precision equipment, painting or product-contact air, and always sit downstream of a coarse filter. ISO 8573-1 grades air quality by particles, water and oil.
How do automatic and manual drains differ?
A manual drain needs an operator to open it regularly, and missed draining lets water into the system. A float auto drain opens when the bowl fills but can stick if the water carries heavy sludge. In humid climates auto drains greatly reduce the risk of water reaching valves.
Are there chemical concerns with plastic filter bowls?
Polycarbonate bowls are cracked by solvents, some synthetic compressor oils and cleaning agents. Where chemicals or direct sunlight are present, use a metal bowl with a sight glass. Fit the bowl guard as the maker recommends.
How do I size an FRL by flow?
Size it on the machine's air consumption at an acceptable pressure drop, typically around 0.1 to 0.3 bar, not only on port thread size. An undersized FRL lets pressure sag whenever several cylinders move together. Manufacturers publish flow versus pressure drop charts for each size.
When should the FRL filter element be replaced?
Replace it when the pressure drop across the filter exceeds roughly 0.7 bar, or when the differential indicator shows, if fitted. Coalescing elements usually need replacing yearly even if they do not look blocked. Always vent pressure before removing the bowl.
How many drops should a lubricator be set to, and which oil?
A typical setting is about 1 to 2 drops per 1000 litres of air, adjusted by the oil mist seen at the exhaust. Use pure ISO VG32 mineral oil for pneumatics, never engine oil with additives. Once lubrication starts it must continue, because the oil washes away the factory grease in valves and cylinders.
Why does the regulator not hold a steady pressure?
Output pressure fluctuates when the regulator is too small for the flow or the inlet is not far enough above the set point, typically at least about 1 bar higher. A dirty diaphragm or valve seat also causes drift. Sometimes an inaccurate gauge is the real culprit, so verify against a reference gauge.
