Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 396 Fluid Power 16.1 Conditioning and Storing Pneumatic System Air The quality of atmospheric air greatly varies from one location to another. Also, air quality can rapidly change at a given location based on weather condi- tions and surrounding work activities, Figure 16-1. However, for maximum operating effi ciency and ser- vice life, it is essential to operate a pneumatic system using compressed air that is consistently clean, free from moisture, and at a relatively uniform tempera- ture. Producing compressed air with these qualities on a continuous basis can be done cost effectively with a correctly designed and maintained compressor instal- lation and air-distribution system. See Figure 16-2. The fi rst contributing factor in providing quality, conditioned air to a pneumatic system is the quality of the atmospheric air at the system air intake. Quality can be enhanced by positioning the compressor intake DeVilbiss Air Power Company Figure 16-1. Atmospheric air varies by location, weather condition, and worksite activities. The pneumatic system must be provided with clean, dry air.