As spring arrives in South Africa, bringing with it much-needed rains after the dry winter
months, industries across the country must prepare for the unique challenges that wet
and humid conditions can pose to compressed air systems. While the rainfall
rejuvenates the environment, it can also introduce moisture-related issues that, if not
properly managed, can lead to significant operational disruptions. In this article, we
explore how the spring rains affect compressed air systems and offer strategies to
mitigate these challenges.
The Relationship Between Humidity and Compressed Air Systems
Compressed air systems are vital in a wide range of industries, powering machinery,
tools, and various processes. These systems work by drawing in ambient air,
compressing it to the required pressure, and then distributing it to the necessary
applications. However, when the air is drawn in during periods of high humidity, such
as during and after spring rains, it carries with it more moisture, which can lead to
several problems.