The quality of an air compression system depends on the quality of the air that goes through it. Two components are responsible for protecting air quality: the air filter and the air dryer. The filter removes impurities from the air while the dryer removes water vapor. Excess moisture can cause several problems, including corrosion of metal parts and freezing of outdoor lines. There are several different types of Air Dryers in PA.
A refrigerated dryer has two heat exchange systems. As cold air goes out, it reduces the temperature of the incoming hot air and condenses out some of the moisture. This is an air-to-air heat exchange. The incoming hot air is cooled in an air-to-refrigerant heat exchange that condenses and drains away more water vapor. The outgoing air is then warmed up by incoming air enough to prevent re-condensation. A refrigerated dryer delivers a dew point between 38 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
A deliquescent dryer operates very differently. It uses no electric power supply and has no moving parts. Instead, it uses a pressure vessel containing a substance that attracts and absorbs water molecules from the surrounding environment. This substance can absorb 3.5 to 4 times its own weight in water vapor. Over time, the substance dissolves and the liquid have to be drained and a new medium added. The dew point yielded by this type of dryer is dependent on the temperature of the air or gas flowing through it.
A desiccant dyer passes air through a pressure vessel that contains two cylinders. Each holds a desiccant material, like silica gel, that absorbs moisture. When one becomes saturated, the other cylinder is rotated into position while the first is emptied. The standard dew point for this type of dryer is -40 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that the air leaving the dryer holds as much moisture as the air that has been cooled to that temperature.
A membrane dryer is a dehumidifying system that filters air through a porous membrane. As air passes through the membrane, fibers sweep out the moisture and release it into the atmosphere. Membrane dryers lower the dew point of the air that enters the drying system.
Air dryers are important in a number of industries and applications, including painting, pneumatic tools, dental office air, and truck and train brake systems. Air Center Inc. is one supplier of Air Dryers PA. Visit the website to learn more about their services.
