Compressed air dryers are a component of many commercial and industrial concerns. Their purpose is to remove any water from compressed air. Succinctly put, a compressed air dryer takes in the moisture content and reduces it significantly, making the air in many industries more sanitary by removing the contaminants. In some instances, without this piece of equipment, it would be impossible to operate a production facility.
Categories
Like other types of equipment, compressed air dryers are available in different types or categories. Essentially, you can select from four major kinds. Each is suitable for specific applications.
1. Refrigerated: This is the most popular among the various types. Available as either cycling or non-cycling, the use of a cooling process prevents the moisture build-up, cooling the air in a plant or other workplace to ensure safe and viable air quality.
2. Chemical: This type owes its name to the process in which the compressed air passes over various beds comprised of any of the following chemicals:
a. calcium chloride
b. lithium chloride
3. Desiccant: Also known as twin tower dryers, adsorption dryers, or regens, this type of compressed air dryer employs desiccant agents in a bed to dry compressed air.
4. Membrane: These are a form of filtration system utilizing use specifically formulated bundles of hollow membrane fibers or membrane microtubes.
Understanding how each type or compressed air dryer operates will abet you in making the right choice.
Compressed Air Dryers
Companies have a choice of several types of compressed air dryers. While all are able to remove the ambient moisture from the air, it is important to make certain the compressed air dryer, and the application is compatible. Membrane dryers, for example, are excellent for explosive and exterior environments. Refrigerated types are better for indoor processing. Consider such factors when selecting the optimal device for your working environment.
