When using an air compressor, it might also be necessary to use compressed air dryers. These clever pieces of equipment will remove water in compressed air, which can help to protect systems and ensure they can work at their full potential. Essentially, air dryers are a type of filter system that will remove the water from the air that has been compressed, but they work in special ways to ensure the process of removing the water is safe, efficient, and will not compromise the rest of the system.
There are many types of compressed air dryers available to suit different systems and applications. The two overarching categories of dryer are primary and secondary. The primary category includes coalescing, refrigerating, and deliquescent. The secondary category includes desiccant, absorption and membrane. There will generally be a flow rate outlined in SCFM and a dew point, as well. All of the information that is included about a compressed air dryer will help you to find the right type for your needs. You can also speak to a supplier of compressed air dryers as they can give you tailored advice depending on your individual circumstances. No two people will have exactly the same set up so it’s very important to have the right options implemented for your work.
What is a compressed air dryer and why does air need to be dried?
A compressed air dryer is essentially a type of filter system that works very efficiently to remove water, which is almost always present in compressed air. Why? This is to to the process through which the air is compressed. it is first heated, so then as the compressed air cools down, the water vapour will need to be removed as it condenses. If the moisture is not removed, it can interfere with processes and damage machinery and plants, so this step is very important. Effective air drying technology is essential to the success of air compression.
Saving energy with a compressed air dryer: what do you need to do?
These are some important ways to save energy when running a compressed air dryer:
- Desiccant/adsorption air dryers should use dewpoint control which will reduce energy wastage, something that is important for environmental concerns and for running costs.
- Use thermal mass technology where possible. The total cost can now be written off against corporation tax. A thermal mass refrigerant air dryer can reduce energy costs by up to 70%, making huge savings for you across the board.
- Use timer controls to avoid unnecessary running times and the costs/energy associated with these.
How can a compressed air dryer help you with general operations?
A compressed air dryer can make operations cheaper and more efficient especially if it is a modern, well integrated model that uses the latest technology. It might be installed along with rotary screw compressors and other compressor types, and newer models can replace multiple compressors where space is tight and running costs are high. Compressed air dryers can be integral to your everyday operations.