Whether you run a large-scale operation or a small craft brewery, compressed air—and in many cases, nitrogen—is involved in multiple stages of your process:

• Valve actuation and control systems
• Pump and conveyor systems
• Aeration of the wort
• Fermentation tank pressurisation
• Cleaning processes (CIP systems)
• Bottling, canning, and kegging lines
• Tank blanketing and oxygen purging (typically with nitrogen)

In many of these applications, the gas doesn’t just power equipment—it comes into contact with surfaces, tanks, and even the beer itself. That’s why treating both compressed air and nitrogen is essential to protect product quality and maintain hygiene standards.

Air taken directly from a compressor contains moisture, oil vapour, and particles—all of which can cause serious issues in a brewery environment:

Moisture
Creates ideal conditions for microbial growth, especially in piping and tanks. It can also cause corrosion in stainless steel lines.

Oil aerosols and vapour
Even with oil-free compressors, ambient oil vapour can make its way in. In breweries, oil contamination can lead to off-flavours, foaming issues, or product rejection.

Solid particles
Dust, dirt, rust, and scale from piping can clog filters, valves, and nozzles—affecting flow rates and system reliability.

Left untreated, these contaminants can compromise product quality, reduce shelf life, and even lead to costly downtime or recalls.

Installing the right air treatment system is the only way to ensure that the compressed air you use is clean, dry, and safe. It’s not just about protecting equipment—it’s about preserving the flavour, stability, and safety of your beer.

Compressed air dryers
Moisture is one of the biggest risks in brewery compressed air systems. Using a compressed air dryer, such as a refrigerant or desiccant model, helps remove water vapour from the air supply. Refrigerant dryers are typically suitable for general-purpose brewery applications, helping prevent microbial growth and maintaining consistent process conditions. In more sensitive or colder environments, desiccant dryers may be preferred for achieving lower dew points.

Compressed air filters
To remove solid particles, dust, and oil aerosols from the compressed air stream, breweries rely on compressed air filters—particularly high-efficiency particulate and coalescing filters. Placing filters near critical points like filling lines or cleaning systems offers an additional layer of protection where it matters most.

Condensate drains
Even with drying systems in place, moisture can still accumulate in tanks, pipes, or filters. Condensate drains automatically remove this water from the system, helping prevent corrosion, contamination, and inconsistent air flow. They’re especially useful in humid conditions or high-demand brewery setups.

Used to stabilise and buffer the compressed air supply, air receivers store clean, dry air ready for use—improving pressure control during peak demand. Aftercoolers, on the other hand, help lower the temperature of compressed air after compression, reducing moisture content before it enters dryers or filters. Together, these components support system efficiency and ensure a consistent, reliable air supply across the brewery.