Moisture has a harmful impact on machinery, causing them to rust and corrode. Many industrial processes need compressed air which is sometimes degraded by the presence of moisture. Moisture leads to overworking of air compressors by not allowing the parts to function properly. This is where compressed air dryers come to the rescue. These are used to suck up the moisture from compressed air, thereby prolonging the machine's lifetime.
Types of compressed air dryers:
Refrigerated Dryers:
The most popular of all, refrigerated dryers are also the most widespread. The function of refrigerated compressed air dryers is similar to that of a refrigerator. The process of cooling is such that it prevents moisture from being sucked up from the environment. A kitchen refrigerator is used to cool and store food products whereas a refrigerated air dryer is used to maintain the quality of air in manufacturing units. This creates a hygienic environment in the manufacturing plant for the employees. These are usually inexpensive compared to other dryers as maintenance and operating them are cheaper. However, they cannot be used for temperatures below freezing point.
Desiccant Dryers:
The dryers that use desiccating agents for the purpose of drying compressed air are known as desiccant compressed air dryers. These dryers use the process of adsorption, in which the moisture particles attach themselves to the desiccant and do not get dissolved, unlike in absorption. These agents are hygroscopic, thereby drawing moisture from compressed air.
These have vast industrial applications to help maintain the quality of air, thereby preventing any contamination. These work best in sensitive environments, where refrigerated dryers usually cannot work. These are used in relatively cooler environments. Some industries where desiccant dryers are used are material processing like fabrics, healthcare, food etc. The initial cost of setting up can be a bit high and so can be the maintenance.
Chemical Dryers:
Compressed air is made to pass over deliquescent chemicals which suck up moisture until they are full of it. These chemicals have an affinity for moisture. Examples of such chemicals are- Sodium, chloride, calcium and lithium. After the use, these chemicals are discarded along with the moisture. This requires a filtration system of very high quality in place in the manufacturing unit. This is to make sure that the chemicals do not interfere with the compressed air. Though chemicals need to be supplied, the cost of set-up is quite cheap. The disadvantage of such compressed air dryers includes having to discard the chemicals from time to time and also buying them.
How to choose?
Things to consider before making the purchase are-
- The type of use you want from the compressed air dryer.
- The desired amount of moisture saturation that needs to be removed and the environment of operation.
- The temperature at which the operation is to be carried out.
- How often the process is to be undergone.
Making the purchase:
Depending on the above points, make sure to invest in a compressed air dryer that works for you. You can rely on a reputed compressed air dryer manufacturer for the purpose. This will ensure that you get the best quality product at an affordable rate.
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