When medical air piping systems operate at different pressures, where should the piping separate?

The correct answer is that piping should separate after the filters when medical air piping systems operate at different pressures. This is important for maintaining the integrity and safety of the medical air systems.

When piping is separated after the filters, it ensures that both branches of the system can operate independently while still maintaining sanitary conditions. Filters are designed to remove contaminants from the air, and if the piping were to separate before the filters, there is a risk that unfiltered air could be introduced into one of the pressure systems, potentially exposing patients to harmful particulates or pathogens.

Additionally, separating the piping after the filters allows for effective maintenance and monitoring of each system. Each pressure system can be managed according to its specific requirements without impacting the other. This approach aligns with best practices in medical gas pipeline systems, where cleanliness and reliability are paramount to patient safety and equipment performance.