STERLING Support

Lean on us. We're here for you.

How We Help

Everything You Need to Succeed


We don't just ship products; we support the people who sell and service them. Our knowledge is yours to use, freely and without obligation.

Downloads

Price lists, product brochures, installation & maintenance guides, legislation, terms and returns policy.

Go to Downloads
Laboratory Services

Condensate sample analysis with a hydrocarbon content report within 5 working days. Affordable, reliable, fast.

Learn More
Training & Field Support

Free on-site training for distributor teams and field support for technical queries. We share our knowledge openly.

Find Out More

Knowledge Base

Technical Guidance & Useful Information


Key information for anyone involved in specifying, installing or maintaining condensate management equipment.

Quick Reference

Condensate Disposal — The Legal Position

Compressed air condensate contains oil and cannot be discharged to any drain, watercourse, or ground without treatment. The Environmental Protection Act and Water Resources Act both apply.

  • Illegal disposal carries unlimited fines and potential prosecution
  • The BCAS (British Compressed Air Society) publishes clear guidance on obligations
  • Every compressor installation requires a compliant separator
Download BCAS Statement
How Much Condensate Does a Compressor Produce?

Condensate production depends on ambient temperature, relative humidity, compressor output and operating hours. It varies significantly between seasons, which is why zero-loss drains outperform timed drains so markedly.

  • A 25 hp compressor can produce 1,000+ litres of condensate per year
  • Summer production can be 4–5× higher than winter
  • Condensate typically contains 50–500 ppm of oil
OWS Service Intervals — When to Change

The service interval for an oil/water separator is determined by operating hours, not calendar time, though annual service is a useful minimum. STERLING's separators use longer-lasting media, reducing the frequency of visits.

  • PL15: service every 4,000 hours
  • PL30–PL480: per manufacturer specification
  • PL550 & PL1100: IBC replacement every ~2 years (16,000 hours)
What Is Emulsified Condensate?

Emulsified condensate occurs when oil and water are mixed at a molecular level, typically caused by certain synthetic or semi-synthetic compressor oils, high temperatures, or additives. It appears milky or opaque.

  • Standard separators can struggle with emulsified condensate
  • STERLING's AF upgrade media handles emulsified condensate effectively
  • Lab testing can confirm whether condensate is emulsified
Lab Testing Service

Can't find what you need?

Call or email. Our team has decades of practical experience and we're always happy to help.