2024-03-11

Why is it important to dry compressed air?

All atmospheres contain a certain amount of water vapor. Now, think of the atmosphere as a giant, slightly damp bubble. If we squeeze too hard, the absorbed water will drip down. The same happens when air is compressed, which means that the concentration of water will increase. In order to avoid future problems in the compressed air system, it is necessary to treat the humid air. This is done using an aftercooler and drying equipment.
 
Why and how do we dry compressed air?
 
The atmosphere contains more water vapor at high temperatures and less at low temperatures. When air is compressed, this affects the concentration of water. For example, a compressor with a working pressure of 7 bar and a capacity of 200 l/s, when compressing air at a temperature of 20°C and a relative humidity of 80%, will release 10 liters of water per hour in the compressed air line. Problems and disturbances may occur due to water precipitation in pipes and connected equipment. To avoid this, the compressed air must be dry.
 
What is the pressure dew point?
 
The term "pressure dew point" (PDP) is used to describe the water content of compressed air. It is the temperature at which water vapor condenses into water at the current operating pressure. A low PDP value indicates that the amount of water vapor in the compressed air is low.
 
It is important to remember that when comparing different dryers, the atmospheric dew point cannot be compared to the PDP. For example, a PDP of 2 C at 7 bar is equivalent to -23 ˚C at atmospheric pressure. Using a filter to remove moisture (reduce dew point) does not work. This is because further cooling results in continued precipitation of condensed water.
 
You can choose the main type of drying equipment according to the pressure dew point. When considering cost, the lower the required dew point, the higher the investment and operating costs of air drying. There are five technologies for removing moisture from compressed air: cooling plus separation, over-compression, membrane separation, absorption and adsorption drying.
 
Different drying methods
 
There are several ways to dry compressed air, most of which are listed below. For more information on how to choose the right dryer for your application, click here. -After cooler-Refrigerant dryer-Over compression-Absorption and adsorption drying (Descendant dryer)-Membrane dryer
 
How to deal with condensed water after air drying?
 
Anyone operating with a compressed air system (using fuel injection technology) must understand how to properly dispose of condensate in a responsible manner so as not to violate any environmental laws. The condensate released by compressed air equipment will have tiny oil particles that are invisible to the naked eye, which is why proper treatment is required. Incorrect disposal will not only damage the environment, but may also result in fines and damage to your reputation as a responsible company.
 
In general, there are many regulations about waste disposal, because you will no doubt know if you have recently visited a local recycling center and compared it to a visit just a few years ago. Don't let the compressed air supply take you on the road before a fairly simple initial inspection.
 
Observe the compressed air equipment: you should be able to see the condensate drain on the back of the on-site condenser and dryer. Take a look at where these pipes are connected. Ideally, you should see them all enter the oil/water separator and then blow down. If they go straight from the drain into the floor or just into standard plastic containers, a red flag should be raised. The oil/water separator is very easy to install. Please note that even if the correct equipment is installed, there are many rules surrounding the treatment of condensate, and these rules may vary from region to region.

Important, compressed air, dry, dew point, condensate, treatment, conduct, pdp, equipment, comparison

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