Compressed air systems operate by drawing in atmospheric air, compressing it to high pressures, and releasing it at elevated temperatures. During this process, the air becomes saturated with moisture. As it cools, this moisture condenses into liquid water. Combined with the normal oil carryover from the compressor, this results in a contaminated condensate that cannot be safely discharged into sewer systems or the environment. Without a reliable oil-water separator, this oily mixture will drain directly into the ground or municipal systems, causing serious environmental, financial, and legal consequences. Just one gallon of lubricant can contaminate up to four acres of groundwater, and a single 100 HP compressor can carry over 15 gallons of oil annually. To protect your facility from pollution, avoid regulatory fines, and meet environmental laws, an oil-water separator is not just useful—it’s essential.

Let’s learn more about the four types of oil/water separators that Gardner Denver manufactures:

1. GD Intelli PAK Series Oil-Water Separator

Compressed air systems generate condensate that often contains residual lubricant, posing a serious environmental hazard if not properly managed. Without an oil-water separator, this contaminated mixture can end up in local drainage systems or seep into groundwater, potentially violating environmental regulations. The GD Intelli PAK Series is engineered to be the most effective and user-friendly oil-water separator available, offering a clean, compliant, and hassle-free solution for handling compressor condensate.

Key Features:

Advanced Separation Media: Alumino silicate substrate attracts contaminants while repelling water molecules for superior separation.
Safe and Secure: The internal bonding process eliminates the risk of used media contaminating groundwater.
Universal Compatibility: Handles any lubricant type, including silicone-based oils.
Scalable Options: Available in five capacities—250 cfm, 400 cfm, 750 cfm, 1000 cfm, and 1500 cfm.
Integrated Design: Sleek cabinet matches GD compressors for a cohesive look.
Smart Cartridge Security: Proprietary encryption ensures only compatible replacement cartridges are used.

Benefits:

No Complex Components: Operates without the need for expensive pumps, sensors, or filters.
Pre-Filtration Not Required: The proprietary media bed is effective enough to handle condensate directly.
Durable Construction: Rugged internal piping ensures consistent performance over the unit’s life.
Clean Maintenance: Instead of opening the unit and dealing with messy media changes, simply replace the full unit when it’s spent.
Simplified Disposal: Designed for easy and compliant disposal through most local waste management services.

2. CTS Eliminator II Oil-Water Separator

Compressed air systems generate condensate as a byproduct, which often becomes contaminated with oil from lubricated compressors. Disposing of this oily condensate without proper treatment is not only harmful to the environment but also illegal in most regions. The CTS Eliminator II is specifically engineered to separate oil from compressor condensate, allowing only clean water to be safely expelled into the sewer system or the ground. The oil is captured for proper disposal, helping you stay compliant with environmental regulations and maintain responsible operations.

Key Features:

Wide Operating Range: Functions effectively in ambient temperatures from +32°F to 120°F, with inlet temperatures up to 120°F.
Pre-Absorption Filter: Unique filter breaks down emulsions, improving separation performance.
Extended Service Life: 40% longer lifespan compared to most competitors, reducing maintenance frequency.
Built for Real-World Conditions: Designed and rated to operate efficiently in high-heat, high-humidity conditions (90°F and 90% RH).
Optional Add-Ons:
- Level Minder Oil Container Alarm System for overflow protection
- Heater for cold environments
  Remote Flow Indicator for monitoring from a distance

Benefits:

Reliable Summer Performance: Rated for peak ambient conditions, ensuring year-round dependability.
Lower Maintenance Requirements: Longer service intervals reduce downtime and labor costs.
Easy Carbon Replacement: CTS60 models and above feature Vaccu-Break conduit and carbon bed handles (CTS30 & up) for simplified servicing.
Built-In Diagnostic Tool: Pop-up indicator retains evidence of restricted flow until manually reset, helping diagnose issues quickly.
Superior Filtration: Unique pre-absorption filter effectively breaks emulsified contaminants for cleaner discharge.

3. Eliminator Troubleshooter Oil-Water Separator

Compressed air systems generate condensate as a byproduct of the compression process, and when lubricants are involved, this condensate becomes contaminated with emulsified oil. Proper separation of this oil is essential to meet environmental discharge regulations and to protect infrastructure from corrosion and clogging. The Eliminator Troubleshooter is specifically engineered to tackle challenging condensate scenarios—including emulsified, slowly demulsible, and high-volume loads—by reducing oil content to 15 PPM or less. It delivers unmatched efficiency, ease of maintenance, and long filter life, making it an economical choice for operations with demanding air systems.

Key Features:

Wide Flow Range: Supports applications from 125 to 1125 CFM, allowing for scalable deployment.
Non-Clogging Filter Design: Keeps operations running smoothly without the risk of blockages.
High-Absorption Media: Holds up to four times more oil than standard activated carbon.
Fully Automatic Operation: Minimal manual intervention required for consistent performance.
Durable Construction: Made from non-corrosive materials to extend service life.
Only Two Moving Parts: Simplifies operation and reduces potential points of failure.

Benefits & Savings at a Glance:

Effective Oil Separation: Reduces oil content in condensate to 15 PPM or less, meeting environmental standards.
Low Maintenance Costs: Fewer service intervals and component replacements mean lower operating expenses.
Extended Filter Life: Media design allows for longer usage before replacement, reducing downtime.
Effortless Maintenance: Simple servicing procedures reduce labor time and training requirements.

4. GD PAK Series Oil-Water Separator

Compressed air systems are a critical part of industrial operations, powering tools and processes with consistent air pressure. However, compressing air also creates condensate—a liquid byproduct that becomes contaminated with compressor lubricant. If left untreated, this oily condensate can cause equipment issues, violate environmental regulations, and potentially pollute groundwater. The GD PAK Series oil-water separator is specifically engineered to remove oil from condensate efficiently and cleanly. It’s a simple, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible solution that ensures only water is discharged, while the separated oil is safely contained for disposal.

Key Features:

Advanced Separation Media: Alumino silicate substrate attracts oil while repelling water for effective separation.
Environmentally Secure Design: Internal bonding of media prevents the release of contaminants into groundwater.
Two Media Types Available: Choose between standard and silicone-compatible units based on your lubricant.
Flexible Capacity Options: Available in 7, 25, 40, and 60-gallon sizes to fit a range of system needs.

Benefits:

No Extra Equipment Needed: Operates without costly pumps, sensors, or pre-separation filters.
Highly Efficient Media: No pre-filtration required, thanks to the effectiveness of the proprietary media bed.
Long-Term Reliability: Rugged internal piping ensures dependable performance throughout the life of the unit.
Clean, Simple Maintenance: Full units are easily disposed of—no messy media handling or cleanup required.
Hassle-Free Disposal: Typically disposed of through standard local waste management services, saving time and effort.

Gardener Denver’s Oil-Water Separators

Gardner Denver’s oil-water separators—Intelli PAK, CTS Eliminator II, Eliminator Troubleshooter, and GD PAK Series—offer reliable, low-maintenance solutions for safely removing oil from compressor condensate. With advanced filtration and durable designs, they help protect the environment, reduce costs, and ensure compliance.

Contact us today for help finding the right oil-water separator for your system.

1. GD Intelli PAK Series Oil-Water Separator

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2. CTS Eliminator II Oil-Water Separator

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3. Eliminator Troubleshooter Oil-Water Separator

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Benefits & Savings at a Glance:

4. GD PAK Series Oil-Water Separator

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Gardener Denver’s Oil-Water Separators

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