Air Sentry GRC12SC Replacement Cartridge

Pricing & Quoting

Can I get a discount for bulk orders?

Yes, we specialize in B2B bulk pricing and quoting. For volume discounts, please request a formal quote through our sales team by emailing pesales@pe-energy.com.

Is the price listed the best price available?

Our quotes are based on competitive market pricing. If you require a special offer or long-term procurement pricing, contact us for a tailored quote. Pricing is based on volume discounts.

Are certifications provided for free or at an additional cost?

Some certifications are included, while others may have additional costs depending on the manufacturer. Please reach out to us with item numbers, quantities, and the certifications you need.

Can I get a price match or honor old pricing?

Pricing is subject to market fluctuations and supplier costs. We strive to offer the best pricing; however, pricing is typically valid for 30 days upon quote issuance. Please reach back out to us to validate your quote.

Shipping & Delivery

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping costs depend on your location, package weight, and selected shipping method. Freight charges can be confirmed at checkout or through a formal quote request.

Can I use my own shipping account (FedEx, UPS, DHL, etc.)?

Yes, customers can provide their own freight or courier accounts. Please specify your preferred shipping method when placing an order.

Do you offer expedited shipping?

We can check if expedited shipping is available for your order. However, lead times depend on manufacturers' supply, and expediting may not always be possible. For in-stock items, we strive to ship the same day or the next business day.

Why do international customers need to hire a freight forwarder for large orders?

For orders above $2,500, international customers may need a freight forwarder to handle the necessary customs documentation. We work with a network of freight forwarding agents and can assist with a custom quote based on your requirements.

Lead Times & Availability

How long does it take to process and ship my order?

Lead times vary depending on supplier availability. Some products are in stock, while others may require a lead time based on manufacturer schedules. For in-stock items, we strive to ship the same day or the next business day.

Can I expedite the lead time?

While we do our best to expedite orders, lead times are determined by our manufacturers. Contact us to check if faster processing is possible.

Why do lead times sometimes change after an order is placed?

Lead times depend on raw material availability and manufacturer production schedules. In case of delays, our team will notify you of any changes.

Product Information & Compatibility

How do I know if this part is compatible with my equipment?

Our customers typically provide us with part numbers, and we quote based on those part numbers. Please ensure you are providing the correct OEM part number to receive an accurate quote.

Are these genuine or aftermarket parts?

We offer both OEM and high-quality aftermarket replacement parts. Each product page specifies whether it is an OEM or compatible replacement part. Most of our customers seek original manufacturer parts.

Can I request technical sheets or product specifications?

Yes, technical sheets are available for most products. If not listed on the product page, contact us, and we’ll provide the necessary documentation.

Ordering & Payment

Can I place an order over the phone?

No, for security reasons, we do not process payments over the phone. Orders must be placed online or via email through a formal quote and purchase order process.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept wire transfers, major credit cards, and purchase orders (for approved business accounts). International customers may be required to pay via wire transfer. Credit card payments are accepted up to $5,000.

Do you offer credit terms or net payment options?

Credit terms may be available for long-term B2B clients. Many international clients request credit, but our standard payment method is wire transfer. We require a few transactions before offering credit terms.

Can I cancel or modify my order after placing it?

Orders can be modified or canceled only if they have not been processed for shipping. Contact us as soon as possible to request changes.

Returns & Warranty

Can I return my order if I no longer need it?

Returns are accepted on a case-by-case basis. Some products may have restocking fees, and special-order items may be non-returnable. Contact us for details.

What if I receive a damaged or defective item?

If an item is damaged upon arrival, please contact us immediately with photos. We will assist with a replacement or refund based on supplier policies.

Do products come with a warranty?

Warranty policies vary by manufacturer. Please check the product page or contact us to confirm the warranty terms for your purchase.

Compliance & Certifications

Do your products come with industry certifications?

Many of our products hold niche industry certifications, as required by the manufacturers we work with. Contact us if certification documents are required.

Can you provide Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) or compliance documents?

Yes, compliance documentation is available for most products. Some may require additional processing time or costs.

Do you provide documentation for customs clearance?

For international orders, we provide commercial invoices and essential export documentation. Additional compliance paperwork can be arranged upon request.

Customer Support & Assistance

How can I contact customer support?

Our support team is available via phone, email, and live chat during business hours.

Do you have a chatbot for quick questions?

Yes, we use chat support. However, we recommend leaving an email so we can respond even if the customer has closed the chat.

Can I request a product not listed on your website?

Absolutely! We specialize in sourcing hard-to-find industrial and MRO products. While we aim to list all manufacturer-produced products on our website, some may not yet be available online. Contact us for special requests.

Air Sentry General Questions

What is an Air Sentry Desiccant Breather?

Air Sentry Desiccant Breathers are filtration devices that remove moisture and particulate contaminants from the air entering storage tanks, reservoirs, and other equipment.

Why are desiccant breathers important?

They prevent contamination in lubricants and fluids by absorbing moisture and filtering out dirt and particles, extending equipment life.

Where are Air Sentry Desiccant Breathers used?

They are commonly used in hydraulic systems, gearboxes, transformers, storage tanks, and lubrication systems.

What makes Air Sentry breathers different from other breathers?

Air Sentry breathers use high-efficiency filtration, color-indicating silica gel, and check valves to maximize performance.

How do Air Sentry breathers work?

They absorb moisture from incoming air using silica gel and filter out particles and contaminants.

Air Sentry Product Types & Models

What is the difference between Air Sentry Standard and Air Sentry II breathers?

Air Sentry Standard breathers offer basic moisture and particle filtration. Air Sentry II breathers have replaceable cartridges for extended life and cost savings.

What is the Air Sentry Z-134 model used for?

The Z-134 breather is a high-capacity unit for large hydraulic reservoirs, gearboxes, and bulk storage tanks.

What are Air Sentry X-Series breathers?

The X-Series breathers are designed for extreme environments, such as high-dust areas and high-humidity applications.

What is the Air Sentry D-102 breather used for?

The D-102 model is a medium-duty breather for gearboxes, small reservoirs, and mobile equipment.

What are Air Sentry tank breathers?

These are larger desiccant breathers designed for bulk fluid storage tanks, preventing water and particle contamination.

Air Sentry Installation & Compatibility

How do I install an Air Sentry breather?

Remove the old breather cap. Attach the correct adapter for your system. Secure the breather in place. Replace when the desiccant turns dark green or per manufacturer’s guidelines.

Can Air Sentry breathers be used in outdoor environments?

Yes, many models are weather-resistant and designed for harsh environments.

Are Air Sentry breathers compatible with all lubricants?

Yes, they work with most hydraulic oils, lubricants, fuels, and coolants.

Can Air Sentry breathers be used on transformers?

Yes, specific models are designed for electrical transformers to prevent moisture ingress.

What adapter do I need for my breather?

Adapter selection depends on thread size, reservoir type, and application.

Air Sentry Performance & Features

How long do Air Sentry breathers last?

It depends on humidity, dust levels, and airflow, but they typically last 3-12 months.

What does the color change in silica gel indicate?

Orange to green: The silica gel is saturated with moisture and needs replacement.
Pink to white: Some special models use color-indicating gel for different conditions.

How efficient are Air Sentry breathers at filtering particles?

They remove 99.9% of particles down to 2 microns.

Do Air Sentry breathers prevent oxidation?

Yes, by removing moisture, they reduce oxidation in stored lubricants.

Do these breathers have check valves?

Yes, many models include check valves to control airflow and prevent oil mist loss.

Air Sentry Maintenance & Replacement

How often should I replace my Air Sentry breather?

Replace when silica gel is fully saturated (color change) or when recommended by the manufacturer.

Can I refill my Air Sentry breather with new silica gel?

No, most models are disposable, but some Air Sentry II breathers have replaceable cartridges.

How do I dispose of used breathers?

Dispose of them according to local environmental regulations. The silica gel is non-toxic.

What causes breathers to expire faster?

High humidity environments, frequent air exchange cycles, and heavy particulate contamination.

What happens if I don’t replace my breather on time?

Moisture and contaminants enter the reservoir, fluid degradation occurs faster, and there are higher maintenance costs with potential equipment damage.

Air Sentry Industry Applications

Are Air Sentry breathers used in mining?

Yes, they protect hydraulic systems, gearboxes, and heavy machinery from dust and moisture.

Are they used in agriculture equipment?

Yes, they are ideal for tractors, combines, and irrigation systems.

Can Air Sentry breathers be used in food processing plants?

Yes, models with NSF-certified components are safe for food-grade applications.

Are they suitable for marine environments?

Yes, X-Series breathers are corrosion-resistant, making them great for shipboard applications.

Do these breathers work with wind turbines?

Yes, they protect gearboxes and hydraulic systems in wind energy applications.

Air Sentry Product Selection

Which breather should I choose for a small gearbox?

A D-Series (D-102 or D-105) is ideal.

What’s the best breather for large oil tanks?

The Z-Series or X-100 models are recommended.

Which breather is best for extreme dust conditions?

The X-Series breathers have high-efficiency filters for heavy dust environments.

What’s the best option for extreme humidity?

Air Sentry breathers with high-capacity silica gel (e.g., Z-134) are best.

Do I need a different breather for diesel storage?

Yes, some Air Sentry breathers are optimized for fuel storage applications.

Air Sentry Technical & Safety Information

Are Air Sentry breathers explosion-proof?

Some models are rated for hazardous locations and ATEX-certified.

Do Air Sentry breathers meet ISO standards?

Yes, they comply with ISO 9001 quality standards.

Are these breathers fire-resistant?

Some specialized models have fire-resistant housings.

Can they be used in vacuum applications?

Some Air Sentry breathers are designed to handle negative pressure environments.

Do they prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD)?

Yes, certain models are designed to minimize static build-up.

Air Sentry Ordering & Support

Where can I buy Air Sentry breathers?

They are available through industrial suppliers, distributors, and online retailers.

Are bulk discounts available?

Yes, bulk orders may qualify for discounts.

Do Air Sentry breathers come with a warranty?

Yes, they come with a manufacturer’s warranty.

Can I get a custom-sized breather?

Some customization options are available for large-scale applications.

Are technical support and installation guides available?

Yes, manuals and support are available from Air Sentry distributors.

Air Sentry Environmental & Compliance

Are Air Sentry breathers eco-friendly?

Yes, they reduce waste by extending equipment life and preventing fluid contamination.

Do Air Sentry breathers contain hazardous materials?

No, they contain non-toxic silica gel and filters.

Are Air Sentry breathers ROHS compliant?

Yes, they meet ROHS and REACH compliance.

Do they help with sustainability?

Yes, by reducing lubricant disposal and extending equipment life, they support sustainability goals.

Can they be used in clean-room environments?

Yes, certain models are designed for clean-room filtration applications.

Fundamentals of Desiccant Breather Technology

Bi-Directional Filtration Mechanics

Air Sentry breathers employ a pressure-driven airflow system that activates during both inhalation and exhalation cycles of fluid reservoirs:

• Inhalation Phase (0.1-0.3 psi differential):
  • Ambient air passes through a 2-micron particulate filter (β₃ ≥ 1000)
  • Airflow diffuses through a silica gel bed with 40Å pore structure
  • Final 2-micron post-filter captures any gel particulates
• Exhalation Phase (2.0 psi threshold):
  • Expelled air back-flushes the intake filter
  • Partial silica gel regeneration through moisture desorption
  • Activated carbon layer absorbs oil vapors (X-Series models)

The silica gel's 800 m²/g surface area enables adsorption capacities up to 40% of its weight in water vapor, maintaining dew points as low as -73°C.

Material Science Considerations

• Housing: Impact-modified PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) with ABS structural components withstands -28°C to +93°C operational temperatures
• Filter Media: Glass fiber composite with 2µm absolute rating (98% efficiency @ 35 CFM)
• Desiccant: ASTM D5894-standard silica gel with cobalt chloride indicator (gold → green transition at 30% moisture content)

Product Line Analysis

D-Series Disposable Breathers

D-102 Technical Specifications

• Dimensions: 8" height × 5" diameter (203mm × 127mm)
• Flow Capacity: 35 CFM (990 L/min) @ 262 GPM fluid displacement
• Desiccant Load: 13.9 fl oz (411 mL) silica gel
• Weight: 3.6 lbs (1.6 kg)
• Connection: 1" friction fit (D-108: 2" NPT; D-109: 3" NPT)
• Best For: Bulk storage tanks, transformer applications requiring high moisture removal capacity. The vertical design minimizes pressure drop (ΔP < 0.5 psi @ max flow).

X-Series High-Performance Breathers

X-100 vs X-102 Comparative Analysis

The X-Series' dual check valve system reduces desiccant consumption by 62% compared to standard breathers in high-humidity environments (RH > 80%). The 316L stainless steel valve components withstand H₂S concentrations up to 500 ppm.

Mini-Breather Series

Key Features:

• Compact 3.25" × 2" (83 × 51mm) profile for confined spaces
• 10 CFM flow capacity equivalent to 75 GPM fluid displacement
• -73°C dew point capability through molecular sieve enhancement
• Integrated activated carbon layer (5g capacity) for VOC adsorption

Ideal Applications: Mobile hydraulic systems, CNC machine tool reservoirs, wind turbine gearboxes.

Selection Methodology

Environmental Factors

Flow Rate Calculations

Use the formula:

Q_breather = 1.5 × ( Q_pump / SG ) × ((T_max + 460) / 520)

Where:

• Q_pump = Pump flow rate (GPM)
• SG = Specific gravity of fluid
• T_max = Maximum temperature (°F)

Example: For a 100 GPM hydraulic system (SG 0.85) operating at 160°F:

Q_breather = 1.5 × (100 / 0.85) × ((160 + 460) / 520) = 212.5 CFM
→ Requires parallel installation of three D-108 breathers (35 CFM each).

Maintenance Protocols

Desiccant Replacement Indicators

• Color Change: Gold → green transition at 30% moisture saturation
• Pressure Differential: ΔP > 2.5 psi across breather indicates filter loading
• Time-Based:
  • Standard environments: 12-18 months
  • Coastal/high humidity: 6-9 months
  • Chemical exposure: 3-6 months

Regeneration Procedures (X-Series Only)

• Remove cartridge and heat at 250°F (121°C) for 4 hours
• Cool in desiccator with -40°C dew point air
• Reactivation possible up to 5 cycles before 15% capacity loss

Industry-Specific Solutions

Power Generation

• Gas Turbines: X-102 breathers with 0.1μm coalescing filters reduce varnish formation in lube oil systems
• Transformers: D-109 breathers handle 200+ CFM airflow during load changes

Maritime Applications

• Corrosion Protection: 316SS hardware options for saltwater environments
• Dynamic Compensation: X-Series check valves prevent seawater ingress during wave-induced pressure fluctuations

Procurement Considerations

Cost Analysis

*Includes desiccant and filter replacements

Logistics Planning

• Lead Times: 4-6 weeks for ATEX-certified models
• Shipping: Gel stabilization packaging required for temperatures > 40°C
• MOQs: Container quantities (20' FCL = 1,200 D-102 units)

Emerging Technologies

• Smart Breather Integration: IoT-enabled X-200 series with real-time moisture sensors (0-100% RH ±1.5%), particle counting (ISO 4406 reporting), and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity for predictive maintenance
• Nanocomposite Desiccants: Zeolite-silica hybrid gels showing 60% capacity increase; Graphene oxide coatings enabling 90% regeneration efficiency

Conclusion

Air Sentry breathers provide quantifiable contamination control across industrial applications, with the D-Series offering cost-effective solutions for moderate environments and the X-Series delivering enhanced performance in extreme conditions. PE Energy's technical procurement team recommends specifying breathers based on:

• Reservoir Dynamics: Maximum pump flow rates and thermal expansion coefficients
• Contamination Profile: ISO 4406 particle counts and moisture ingress rates
• Lifecycle Costs: 5-year TCO comparisons factoring in desiccant consumption

For mission-critical applications in power generation or offshore operations, the X-102's dual-check valve system and 35 CFM capacity provide optimal protection against both particulate and moisture contamination. In mobile or space-constrained environments, the Mini-Breather series delivers comparable performance in a compact form factor. Always validate breather specifications against actual operating conditions through CFD analysis of reservoir venting requirements.