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OEM and Non-OEM parts may look the same—but do they really perform the same?

In this episode of Beyond Compression, host Pam Wasielewski sits down with Dave Sleeman, a seasoned service expert, to break down one of the most common—and costly—assumptions in industrial maintenance: that OEM and non-OEM parts are interchangeable.

From reverse engineering and material selection to micron ratings, tolerances, and long-term performance, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what manufacturers see that others don’t. Dave shares real-world field experience, including a case where a seemingly harmless non-OEM air filter led to reduced efficiency, vibration alarms, impeller damage, and nearly $50,000 in unplanned costs.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why “looks the same” doesn’t mean “performs the same.”
• What’s lost when parts are reverse-engineered without original design data
• How non-OEM components contribute to early-life failures
• The hidden costs of downtime, efficiency loss, and secondary damage
• What OEM parts protect beyond performance—warranty, safety, and compliance

If you’ve ever considered saving a few dollars on replacement parts, this episode explains why the real cost often shows up later.

👉 Full case study:
https://www.fs-elliott.com/blog/oem-vs-non-oem-parts-explained-what-manufacturers-see-that-others-dont

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In this episode of Beyond Compression - An FS-Elliott University Podcast, we explore one of the most misunderstood and undervalued components of your compressed air system: the control panel.

From outdated manual switches to modern, intelligent controllers, we explore why upgrading your compressor control system isn’t just a “nice-to-have,” but a critical step toward achieving higher efficiency, greater reliability, and next-level visibility in your plant operations.

Join our host, Barbara Myers, and guest Tom Nist, as they break down:

• A brief evolution of compressor control systems
• The hidden costs and risks of running outdated controls
• How modern controllers unlock higher performance and real energy savings
• The top warning signs your compressor controls are overdue for an upgrade
• The game-changing impact of data, automation, and remote monitoring on air system efficiency

Whether you're working with aging infrastructure or planning your next system upgrade, this episode will arm you with practical insights on bringing your compressed air controls into the future, without breaking the bank.

Because better control doesn’t just optimize your air, it transforms your bottom line.