A heat of compression desiccant air dryer is an essential component of compressed air systems. Moisture and condensation are an inevitable byproduct of air compression. Water can condense and accumulate within the compressor unit and also to the equipment and processes downstream. Below are some of the advantages of using heat of compression desiccant air dryers.

Removes water contamination:

Water contamination is a serious problem in industries that use high purity compressed air such as laser cutting and welding, plasma generation, microelectronics production, food and pharmaceutical products manufacturing, shot blasting, painting, and coating. Water, along with other contaminants, can create various effects depending on how the compressed air is used. An example is laser cutting which uses air to cool the resonator—a component that generates high-intensity light beams. When water-contaminated air is used, cooling efficiency is decreased which results in overheating and loss of energy.

Prevents water buildup:

Usually, compressed air is fully saturated with water. Decreasing its temperature or further compression and pressurization can cause the diffused water vapor to precipitate. When compressed air at this state is supplied to downstream equipment, there is a risk of water buildup in small cavities or depressions within the equipment. Water buildup can affect the operation of sensitive equipment such as measuring and monitoring devices.

Abates corrosion:

The presence of water into equipment internals can cause corrosion to steel surfaces. Pipe, tanks, vessels, drums, and mixing equipment internals can accumulate water from the condensation of saturated air. This can promote corrosion to the internal surfaces of equipment which may lead to product or process stream contamination.

Prevents freezing:

Precipitated water in compressed air systems can freeze. They can jam moving components of pneumatic actuators of valves and measuring devices. Freezing of accumulated water on process lines can disrupt product or process fluid flow.

Improves efficiency of air-powered or pneumatic equipment:

Air-powered tools and equipment use energy from compressed air for driving air motors or turbines. Examples of these are pneumatic grinders, drills, jackhammers, etc. Water can develop fouling on the internals of these devices which decreases the power delivered by the air motor.