Understanding Refrigerated Air Dryers & When to Use Them

There are many names for refrigerated air dryers - refrigerant dryers, refrigeration air dryers, and fridge dryers. To remove moisture from compressed air, they all use the same technology. This article will be focused on how refrigerated air dryers work, their benefits, and when to use them. In addition, we'll discuss recent development in refrigerated air dryer technology. 

In a refrigerated air dryer, compressed air is cooled by a refrigeration system and then condensed and drained of moisture. This is how it works. In an air-to-air heat exchanger, the untreated air is cooled down by the cool, dry air exiting the dryer. It will then enter the air-to-refrigerant heat exchanger to cool down further.

The temperature is cooled to approximately 3-4°C/40°F here. When the air cools, moisture in it becomes water droplets. Afterwards, the condensate is mechanically separated from the airflow. Upon entering the heat exchanger, compressed air is rewarmed by passing incoming hot air. As a result, the relative humidity decreases and any remaining moisture is trapped as vapour.

Using a refrigerated air dryer can help you solve the problem of harmful moisture in compressed air systems. You can lose money and time if your system has excessive moisture. When properly sized, installed, and maintained, this drying method produces dew points that are adequate for most applications. 

Why do you need an air dryer in the first place? Moisture, dust, and oil contaminate the compressed air. Ambient air contains these pollutants before it is compressed. Compression adds those as well. In either case, your air system and the end product can all be compromised by these contaminants.

If your operations meet the following criteria, refrigerated air dryers are the ideal solution:

• When the temperature is below 50°C/122°F
• When preventing condensation is the main goal
• When the pressure dew point is around 3°C-4°C/37°F-39°F

There are several compelling benefits to using a refrigerated air dryer

• Low initial cost
• High reliability, easy to use and maintain
• Extends the life of your compressor
• Energy savings

A fully functional compressor, but has some cosmetic damage (light scratches/dents). This 54 CFM air dryer is rated for high temperatures and is equipped with an automatic electronic moisture drain valve.

• Max pressure: 145 PSI
• 220 V, 1 PH, 60 HZ
• Dimensions: 27.5 x 16.5 x 28 inches 
• Weight: 59 kilograms 
• Suitable for up to 10 HP Rotary Screw Air Compressor 

Refrigerated air dryer with electronic moisture drain valve (High temperature rated) 90 CFM. 

• Max pressure: 145 PSI
• 220 V, 1 PH, 60 HZ
• Dimensions: 32.6 x 18.5 x 32.6 inches 
• Weight: 65 kilograms 
• Suitable for up to 20 HP Rotary Screw Air Compressor 

The air dryer, rated at 135 CFM, has an automatic electronic moisture drain valve.

• Max pressure: 145 PSI
• 220 V, 1 PH, 60 HZ
• Dimensions: 39.5 x 22.5 x 44 inches 
• Weight: 100 kilograms 
• Suitable for up to 30 HP Rotary Screw Air Compressor 

Since 1962, MasterAire has produced equipment for service stations, boilers, and compressors. It has been the goal of MasterAire to offer everything functional, easy to use, and capable as the best compressors on the market. It has succeeded in keeping pace with the market dynamics and becoming a one-stop supplier to big, small industrial and commercial setups. 

Do you need them for your setup? Need more details about our products? 

Contact us TODAY!