What is BS EN ISO 11117:2011?

Introduction

BS EN ISO 11117:2011 is a technical standard that specifies the requirements for compressed air purity and test methods. This standard provides guidelines for evaluating the quality of compressed air used in various industries, ensuring its safety and suitability for specific applications.

Importance of Compressed Air Purity

Compressed air is widely used in industries such as manufacturing, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. It is essential to ensure the purity of compressed air, as it directly affects the quality and safety of products, equipment, and processes. Contaminants in compressed air, such as moisture, oil, particles, and microorganisms, can cause damage, corrosion, contamination, and reduced efficiency. Hence, the adoption of BS EN ISO 11117:2011 helps maintain the desired level of compressed air purity.

Requirements and Test Methods

BS EN ISO 11117:2011 sets out specific requirements for different types of contaminants and their permissible levels in compressed air. It also provides detailed test methods to assess and verify the purity of compressed air. Some common contaminants addressed by this standard include water vapor, oil aerosols, solid particles, and microorganisms.

To evaluate the compressed air quality, various tests are conducted, including dew point measurement, oil content analysis, particle count analysis, and microbial assessment. These tests enable the identification and quantification of contaminants present in compressed air, ensuring compliance with the required standards.

Application and Compliance

Compliance with BS EN ISO 11117:2011 is essential for industries that rely heavily on compressed air. By adhering to this standard, businesses can enhance product quality, improve operational efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and protect equipment from potential damage caused by impurities in the compressed air.

Industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage processing, electronics, automotive, and many more benefit from adhering to this standard. Implementing the recommended practices and periodic testing ensures that compressed air meets the necessary purity criteria, enabling safe and reliable operations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, BS EN ISO 11117:2011 is a crucial standard for maintaining the purity of compressed air in various industries. It establishes requirements and test methods for evaluating the quality of compressed air, helping businesses ensure their processes, products, and equipment are not compromised by contaminants. Adhering to this standard brings many benefits, such as improved product quality, increased operational efficiency, and reduced downtime. By investing in compressed air purity, industries can safeguard both their reputation and the well-being of customers and employees."