Is a moisture trap really necessary?

My understanding is that they are not necessary, but the act of compressing air causes the creation of water in the lines.

So, if you haven't experienced any problems, and are happy with dealing with any inconveniences that arise, then you're ok.

The cost of a moisture trap is relatively low for the peace of mind when you're counting on the brush to do a good job.

QT

Moisture traps depends on where you live.If you live in the south as I do then the answer is yes due to the condistions you spray in.I myself use a table with a lasy susan on it and crack the door just a little,if I open the door a lot during the winter or summer then I need a moisture trap.The moisture that comes out of a compressor is due to the humidity in the air that is around you.This can cause fish-eyeing of paint or just trapping a large amount of water into the paint.If you use a spray booth in which most of the fumes from the paint are blowen outside you should be allright but if you spray out in the open air you will need a trap for spraying.Digger

Digger has got it right on! if you live in a place where it's sunny most times of the year then you probably don't need one. don't AB when it's raining or humid without a moisture trap

I live in fairly humid Osaka, Japan, but have never used or needed a moisture trap. I've never had any problems with moisture in the line. Some people swear by moisture traps, but in my experience it's not a necessity.

Okay, thanks, Guys.
I thought the moisture build-up was due to cold compressed air condensing.
Going to take the chep way out for now. Winters are dry here in NY, so I'll hold off on this purchase until spring. (This may be one of those things that keeps getting moved into the #2 spot on my list of priorities).

Take care,

Mark

I didn't use a moisture trap on my airbrush for a while when I first got it with no problems, until one night when I was painting my Zero. A huge splat of water came out and went all over my cowling. Then, it happened again when I was painting the fuselage. I was spraying enamels so I'm not sure what effect it would have had on acrylics. I got a trap from my LHS and put it on. It's been there ever since. Nothing fancy, just a metallic can-like inline filter on my air line, very cheap.

I have had a moisture trap sitting in my AB box since last X-mas, never bothered to install it. Last night, during a heavy rain, I started painting my new T-60 light tank. Fire up the ol' Paasche and WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON HERE?! Water droplets barfed all over my poor little T-60! I had to strip the whole thing and start over, now with my moisture trap installed.
You don't need one until you do.

QUOTE: Originally posted by Gimp I have had a moisture trap sitting in my AB box since last X-mas, never bothered to install it. Last night, during a heavy rain, I started painting my new T-60 light tank. Fire up the ol' Paasche and WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON HERE?! Water droplets barfed all over my poor little T-60! I had to strip the whole thing and start over, now with my moisture trap installed. You don't need one until you do.

I think Gimp summed it up nicely here....."You don't need one until you do."

Mike