Introduction
The Ingersoll Rand 47704436001 / 23708423 Air/Oil Separator Element is a critical component in the oil-separation system of compatible rotary screw compressors.
During normal operation, compressor lubricant is introduced into the compression process to provide cooling, sealing, and lubrication. This creates an oil-laden compressed-air mixture that must subsequently pass through the separator element. The separator captures the fine oil aerosol and allows recovered lubricant to return to the compressor's lubrication circuit.
The 23708423 reference is documented as an element for the separator tank, with application information covering compatible Ingersoll Rand R55–R75 compressor configurations.
Maintaining the separator in good condition is important for controlling oil carryover, lubricant consumption, and pressure drop. For industrial facilities, timely separator replacement can also help protect downstream air-treatment equipment from excessive oil contamination.
The 47704436001 / 23708423 references are treated as the same product listing for this page.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|
| Brand | Ingersoll Rand |
| Primary Part Number | 47704436001 |
| Corresponding Part Number | 23708423 |
| Product Type | Air/Oil Separator Element |
| Separator Type | Separator Tank Element |
| Application | Rotary Screw Air Compressors |
| Primary Function | Oil/Air Separation |
| Main Purpose | Oil Carryover Control and Lubricant Recovery |
| Installation Position | Separator Tank |
| Reported Applications | R45 IE, R55 I, R55 N, R75 I |
| Approx. Overall Height | 278 mm |
| Approx. Outer Diameter | 240 mm |
| Approx. Maximum Diameter | 297 mm |
| Approx. Weight | 4.9 kg |
| Compatibility | Model-, serial-number and configuration-dependent |
The published dimensions and weight are approximately 278 mm height, 240 mm outer diameter, 297 mm maximum diameter, and 4.9 kg.
Recommended Companion Models
| Model | Product Name |
|---|
| 24900433 | Ingersoll Rand Oil Filter Element |
| 47557738001 | Ingersoll Rand Air Filter Element |
| 47569978001 | Ingersoll Rand Pad Pre-Filter |
| 47690563001 | Ingersoll Rand Thermal Valve Rebuild Kit |
Frequently Selected Alternatives
| Model | Product Name |
|---|
| 39863865 | Ingersoll Rand Air/Oil Separator Element |
| 54601513 | Ingersoll Rand Air/Oil Separator Element |
| 42841247 | Ingersoll Rand Air/Oil Separator Element |
| 54509427 | Ingersoll Rand Air/Oil Separator Element |
Technical FAQs
1. What is the primary function of Ingersoll Rand 47704436001 / 23708423?
The product is an air/oil separator element installed in the separator tank of compatible Ingersoll Rand rotary screw compressors. It separates oil mist from compressed air so the recovered lubricant can return to the compressor system.
2. Why is oil separation important in an oil-flooded screw compressor?
Lubricant is introduced during compression for cooling, sealing, and lubrication. The separator removes the majority of entrained oil from the compressed-air stream, allowing the lubricant to be recovered while cleaner compressed air continues downstream.
3. Which compressor models are associated with 23708423?
Available parts documentation identifies 23708423 as a separator-tank element for Ingersoll Rand R55–R75 compressor configurations. Application listings include R45 IE, R55 I/N, and R75 I variants, with some applications subject to serial-number limitations.
4. What can cause excessive oil carryover from a compressor?
A deteriorated separator element can contribute to high oil carryover, but other causes include an incorrectly maintained oil-return circuit, excessive lubricant level, unsuitable lubricant, or abnormal operating conditions. The complete separation system should be checked during troubleshooting.
5. Can a restricted separator affect compressor efficiency?
Yes. As differential pressure across the separator increases, the compressor may experience additional pressure loss. Excessive restriction can reduce operating efficiency and may indicate that separator service is required.
6. How does the separator work with the oil-return system?
The separator coalesces fine oil droplets into larger droplets that can be collected and returned through the oil-return circuit. Correct operation of both the separator and oil-return system is necessary for effective lubricant recovery.
7. What happens if the separator element is installed incorrectly?
Incorrect installation can compromise sealing and separation performance and may lead to increased oil carryover or leakage. The element should be installed according to the applicable compressor service procedure.
8. Is 23708423 a separator-tank element rather than an external filter?
Yes. Parts documentation identifies 23708423 as “ELEMENT, SEPARATOR TANK,” indicating that it is installed within the compressor's separator-tank assembly.
9. When should the separator element be replaced?
Replacement should follow the maintenance schedule for the specific compressor. Service may also be required earlier if differential pressure increases, oil carryover becomes abnormal, or inspection indicates deterioration.
10. What should be verified before ordering 47704436001 / 23708423?
The compressor model, serial number, separator-tank configuration, existing part number, and applicable parts documentation should be checked. This is particularly important because separator elements can have similar physical appearances while differing in application.
