Moisture in compressed air systems is a common but serious issue. Even filtered air can contain water vapour that damages tools, contaminates products, and compromises system performance. If your business relies on compressed air, you may be wondering: do I need an air dryer with my compressor? In this article, we explain the role of air dryers, when they are required, and how Rent Air’s compressed air hire solutions ensure performance, compliance, and peace of mind—without the upfront investment.
What Does an Air Dryer Do?
An air dryer removes water vapour from compressed air before it reaches your tools, equipment, or end-use processes. This is critical for:
- Preventing condensation and corrosion in air lines and machinery
- Reducing the risk of bacterial growth or contamination
- Supporting consistent performance in pneumatic tools and control systems
Common air dryer types include:
- Refrigerated dryers – suitable for general industrial use
- Desiccant dryers – ideal for low dew point applications like pharmaceuticals or electronics
- Membrane dryers – used in compact, low-maintenance setups
When Is an Air Dryer Necessary?
You should strongly consider an air dryer if your operation involves:
- Humid environments or locations prone to temperature fluctuations
- Direct product contact, such as food production, paint spraying, or pharmaceutical packaging
- Precision tools or pneumatic control systems requiring dry, clean air
- Compliance with AS ISO 8573.1 or other air quality standards (e.g. HACCP for food safety)
- Reducing downtime and extending equipment lifespan
If your compressed air system is used in any regulated or sensitive application, a dryer isn’t optional—it’s essential.
The Benefits of Proper Air Treatment
Investing in correct air drying (or hiring a system that includes it) offers long-term operational value:
- Enhanced performance – air tools and machines operate more efficiently
- Improved reliability – eliminates water-related faults and system corrosion
- Reduced maintenance and repair costs – fewer component failures
- Regulatory compliance – meets air purity standards such as AS ISO 8573.1
- Cleaner output – supports quality control and reduces environmental risks
Relevant Australian Standards
- AS ISO 8573.1 – Defines acceptable levels of moisture, oil, and particulates in compressed air
- WorkSafe WA and other state regulators – Emphasise safe operation of pressure systems, often requiring proper air treatment
- HACCP – Food and beverage operations may require documented compliance with air quality standards
Failing to treat compressed air properly may result in product defects, safety hazards, and non-compliance with industry regulations.
Why Hire Instead of Buy?
Rent Air offers fully integrated compressor and air dryer hire systems, tailored to your needs:
- Compressor + correctly sized air dryer + filtration—delivered as a complete solution
- No need to calculate dew points, flow rates, or dryer types yourself
- All equipment is tested, maintained, and compliant with Australian standards
- Flexible hire terms to scale up or down as needed
- No capital outlay—ideal for temporary sites or seasonal workloads
- 24/7 support and fast swap-out options to minimise downtime
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If your business relies on compressed air, chances are you need an air dryer—especially if performance, product quality, or compliance are important. From industrial workshops to food and pharmaceutical sites, proper air treatment ensures safe, reliable operations.
With Rent Air, you can hire a complete, fully serviced compressed air system—including the right air dryer—backed by expert advice and ongoing support.
