Air dryers are commonly found in manufacturing plants, widely used to help with daily operations. They can also be found in many naval applications as well. It is worth mentioning that air dryers are important when you have an air compressor, regardless of the type.
After all, air compressors produce a lot of moisture and, while excess moisture can be easily drained, it can’t be entirely removed. Water tends to stick around as a vapor or aerosol, which is challenging to remove. Air dryers can help remove the excess moisture in the air from air compressors.
Remember, compressed are dryers come in multiple different forms., but before you can choose the right one, you need to understand how your air compressor works and what the needs of your business are. You can decide to go with a desiccant air dryer, membrane dryer, refrigerate dryer, or even a point-of-use dryer. The decision is entirely upon you.
Keep in mind choosing the right air dryer will help increase system efficiency, increase productivity and reduce downtime. When considering the purchase of an air dryer, the following are some of the most important things worth considering:
Flow Rate
Choosing the right air dryer depends on the maximum capacity of your air compression system. Capacity is determined in SCFM at 100 PSIG and can also be approximated by multiplying the air compression horsepower times four.
It doesn’t end with that since the best air dryer for your needs also depends on the minimum and maximum operating pressure of your system. Dryers are rated at 100 PSIG. For every increase from 100 PSIG, capacity is reduced. As pressure increases, moisture load decreases, reducing strain on the compression system.
Ambient Temperature
By determining the minimum and maximum operating ambient air temperature of your system, you should be in a perfect position to choose between a low-temperature dryer and a high-temperature dryer. Ambient temperature above 100 degrees Fahrenheit may exceed the maximum inlet temperature of your dryer.
Consider larger driers or high-temperature driers, which can withstand higher ambient temperatures during summer months. The ideal pressure dew point for your air system should be lower than the lowest ambient temperature experienced at your facility.
If not, moisture will condense in the air lines. You should consider whether air lines are exposed to outdoor temperature in summer and winter or through air-conditioned areas before deciding on anything.
