Episode 6: Why Manufacturers Are Switching to Oil-Free Compressed Air

Episode 6: Why Manufacturers Are Switching to Oil-Free Compressed Air

In this episode of Beyond Compression, we cover why compressed air quality matters more than many facilities realize, and how oil-free compressor technology can help reduce contamination risk, improve reliability, and support long-term operational performance. From ISO 8573-1 Class 0 standards to the hidden costs of oil carryover, we explore how air quality directly impacts manufacturing efficiency, product integrity, and maintenance requirements across a wide range of industries. We also discuss the differences between oil-free centrifugal compressors and oil-lubricated technologies, why understanding ISO classifications is important when evaluating compressed air systems, and how facilities can simplify maintenance while protecting sensitive operations. In this episode, you’ll learn: * How ISO 8573-1 defines compressed air quality and what Class 0 really means *  Why oil contamination can create hidden risks for manufacturing operations *  The differences between oil-free centrifugal compressors and oil-lubricated technologies *  How oil-free systems can help reduce maintenance, improve reliability, and lower lifecycle costs *  Which industries benefit most from clean, oil-free compressed air applications Compressed air is often called the fourth utility, but in many facilities, it also plays a direct role in product quality, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Understanding air quality standards and compressor technology selection can help manufacturers reduce risk while supporting cleaner, more reliable operations. Learn more about ISO 8573-1 Class 0 oil-free compressed air by reading our blog: https://www.fs-elliott.com/blog/benefits-of-iso-8573-1-class-0-oil-free-compressed-air-systems Follow FS-Elliott on LinkedIn and Facebook for more insights from our engineering and service teams, and join us as we explore smarter, cleaner, more reliable compressed air systems.

Episode 5: Seasonal Maintenance Checklist for Centrifugal & Rotary Screw Air Compressors

In this episode of Beyond Compression, we share a combined perspective from the compressed air experts at FS-Elliott and FS-Curtis on how seasonal temperature changes impact compressor performance, efficiency, and reliability. From summer heat and humidity to winter cold and condensation risks, we explore how shifting ambient conditions influence both centrifugal and rotary screw compressors—and what operators can do to stay ahead of them. We also discuss why following a structured, OEM-recommended maintenance approach is critical to maintaining performance year-round, and how proactive preparation helps reduce risk, extend equipment life, and avoid unplanned downtime. In this episode, you’ll learn: *  How temperature and humidity changes affect compressor performance and system stability  *  The four critical factors that influence reliability: cooling, lubrication, filtration, and moisture management  *  Key maintenance practices to prepare for both summer and winter operating conditions  *  Why seasonal challenges are predictable—and how to prevent them before they impact your operation  Depending on your location, you may be preparing for peak summer heat or transitioning into colder winter conditions. In either case, your compressed air system is facing known challenges that require attention. 👉 Learn more about seasonal compressor maintenance by reading our blog: https://www.fs-elliott.com/blog/seasonal-maintenance-for-centrifugal-and-rotary-screw-compressors Follow FS-Elliott on LinkedIn and Facebook for more insights from our engineering and service teams, and join us as we explore smarter, cleaner, more reliable compressed air systems.

Episode 4: Custom Aerodynamics, Designing Centrifugal Compressors Around Real-World Operating Conditions

In this episode of Beyond Compression, we explore how site conditions like temperature, humidity, elevation, cooling water, and demand profile influence compressor design, efficiency, and long-term operating costs. We also discuss why compressors designed around actual operating conditions perform more efficiently, operate more reliably, and provide better long-term value than standardized designs. From aerodynamic stage design to control strategies and system coordination, this episode explains how compressor performance is engineered rather than selected.  In this episode, you’ll learn: *  How real-world operating conditions affect compressor performance and efficiency * How design and controls work together to improve reliability and energy use * Why application-specific compressor design leads to better long-term performance If your compressors weren’t designed around your actual operating conditions, your system may not be operating as efficiently as it could. 👉 Learn more about custom aerodynamic compressor design by reading our blog https://www.fs-elliott.com/blog/custom-aerodynamics-centrifugal-compressors or listening to Episode 4 of the Beyond Compression podcast. Follow FS-Elliott on LinkedIn and Facebook for more insights from our engineering and service teams, and join us as we explore smarter, cleaner, more reliable compressed air systems.

Episode 3: Beyond the Price Tag - The Long-Term Cost of Compressed Air

Compressed air powers nearly every industrial facility, but it’s often one of the most underestimated operating costs. In this episode of Beyond Compression, we explore why compressed air costs more than most organizations realize and how system-level inefficiencies quietly drive energy, maintenance, and reliability expenses over time. Through a real-world case study, we share how a compressed air audit uncovered hidden costs across excess pressure, leakage, and inefficient loading. With data in hand, the facility prioritized targeted improvements that reduced operating expense and strengthened system reliability. In this episode, you’ll learn: * Why most compressed air costs occur after installation * How small pressure and control decisions compound into a major energy expense * What system audits reveal that daily operation often hides * How monitoring and data improve efficiency and uptime * Why compressed air should be managed as a system, not just equipment If compressed air feels like a fixed cost, this episode shows how much control you actually have.  👉 Download our white paper to learn more: https://www.fs-curtis.fs-elliott.com/hidden-costs-air-compressor-operation Follow FS-Elliott on LinkedIn and Facebook for more insights from our engineering and service teams, and join us as we explore smarter, cleaner, more reliable compressed air systems.

Episode 2: OEM vs Non-OEM Parts Explained: Key Differences Manufacturers See

OEM and Non-OEM parts may look the same—but do they really perform the same? In this episode of Beyond Compression, host Pam Wasielewski sits down with Dave Sleeman, a seasoned service expert, to break down one of the most common—and costly—assumptions in industrial maintenance: that OEM and non-OEM parts are interchangeable. From reverse engineering and material selection to micron ratings, tolerances, and long-term performance, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what manufacturers see that others don’t. Dave shares real-world field experience, including a case where a seemingly harmless non-OEM air filter led to reduced efficiency, vibration alarms, impeller damage, and nearly $50,000 in unplanned costs. In this episode, you’ll learn: * Why “looks the same” doesn’t mean “performs the same.” * What’s lost when parts are reverse-engineered without original design data * How non-OEM components contribute to early-life failures * The hidden costs of downtime, efficiency loss, and secondary damage * What OEM parts protect beyond performance—warranty, safety, and compliance If you’ve ever considered saving a few dollars on replacement parts, this episode explains why the real cost often shows up later. 👉 Full case study: https://www.fs-elliott.com/blog/oem-vs-non-oem-parts-explained-what-manufacturers-see-that-others-dont [https://www.fs-elliott.com/blog/oem-vs-non-oem-parts-explained-what-manufacturers-see-that-others-dont] Follow FS-Elliott on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/fs-elliott] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/fselliottcompany] for more insights from our engineering and service teams, and join us as we explore smarter, cleaner, more reliable compressed air systems.