ISO 12500-4:2009

Overview

ISO 12500-4:2009 - "Filters for compressed air - Methods of test - Part 4: Water" specifies a laboratory test method to determine the water‑removal efficiency and operational pressure drop of devices designed for water removal from compressed air. The method applies specifically to devices described as wall flow in accordance with ISO 8573-2. The published package includes the standard text, datasheets and an electronic sample test report form for consistent reporting.

Key topics

• Scope of testing: Defines the objective to measure how effectively a wall‑flow compressed air filter removes water and what pressure drop it produces during operation.
• Performance metrics: Focuses on two primary outcomes - water‑removal efficiency (how much liquid water the device captures/redirects) and operational pressure drop (impact on system back‑pressure).
• Test reporting: Includes standardized datasheets and a sample test report to ensure uniform documentation of test conditions and results.
• Reference to ISO 8573-2: Aligns device classification and test applicability with requirements described in ISO 8573‑2.

Applications

ISO 12500-4:2009 is used to:

• Verify and compare the water separation performance of compressed air filters during R&D and type testing.
• Support product datasheets and performance claims for filter manufacturers.
• Inform specifications and procurement requirements for industrial compressed air systems.
• Provide consistent test evidence for quality control, certification, and compliance reviews.
• Aid system designers and maintenance teams in selecting filters that protect downstream equipment from liquid water contamination.

Common industries and uses include manufacturing, pneumatic systems, instrumentation and control, painting and finishing, food and beverage, and any application where liquid carryover in compressed air must be minimized.

Who should use this standard

• Filter manufacturers for product development and marketing claims
• Independent test laboratories performing standardized performance tests
• Compressed air system designers and OEMs specifying filtration solutions
• Procurement and quality managers who require consistent test evidence for purchase decisions
• Regulatory and certification bodies reviewing filtration performance

Related standards

• ISO 8573-2 (referenced in this part) - for device classification and compatibility with compressed air quality frameworks.
• Other parts of the ISO 12500 series (test methods for compressed air filters) - for complementary performance tests and broader filtration assessment.

Keywords: ISO 12500-4:2009, filters for compressed air, water removal efficiency, operational pressure drop, wall flow, ISO 8573-2, compressed air filtration, test method.