Top 5 Industries that Benefit from Air Dryers for Compressors

Compressed air is an important resource and tool for a plethora of industries. As a result, air compression machines are popular features for many businesses. Some industries that use compressed air require more refined and clean air for their products and services.

These businesses will most likely need compressed air dryers in their compression systems. If you’re curious about the role of an air dryer, look no further.

Why Do Industries Use Compressed Air Dryers?

Depending on the industry, some air compression systems need air dryers to produce the best air. When discussing overall air system designs with clients, an air compressor supplier should qualify the need for these air cleaning components.

Most compressors will produce a small to moderate amount of moisture during the air compression process. This is a byproduct of reducing and increasing atmospheric pressures. As it sounds, an air dryer helps to remove the moisture created during compression. The final product is clean and relatively pure compressed air.

Some industries are sealing or packaging their ingredients or products with compressed air. Other industries need consistently dry and clean air for their production processes. Others find that they use a high volume of air, and reducing moisture is key to prolonging the life of their machines. Additionally, the presence of moisture can reduce lubrication in the machinery, cause corrosion or scaling, or negatively affect the functions of certain industrial metering equipment.

Types of Compressed Air Dryers

• Membrane Air Dryer- These dryers use semi-permeable membrane fibre filters to remove moisture from the air. They are low-cost, eco-friendly, and require minimal maintenance.
• Refrigerated Air Dryer- Much like an air conditioner or food refrigerator, these air dryers use cooling systems to reduce air temperature and condense the moisture present in the air into liquid water, which can be drained off.

Within refrigerated models, there are two main types of air dryers.

• Cycling Type Dryer- For this system, a refrigerant is used to cool a solid or liquid mass surrounding the air inlet for the heat exchanger. The cold mass cools the air, which acts as a heat sink. The system uses a thermostat to regulate the cooling process and intermittently shuts off when the optimal temperature is reached. The intermittent shut-off is an energy-saving feature.
• Non-Cycling Type Dryer- The coolant is continually circulated through the system in this model. The refrigerant flow is regulated to match the volume of compressed air entering the compression system.
• Dessicant Air Dryer- Dessicant is any moisture-absorbing material. An air dryer using such materials has two towers for operation. Moisture is removed from the air in one tower. The used desiccant is regenerated in the other tower after pressure is released back to normal atmospheric levels.

The Top 5 Industries that Benefit from Compressed Air Dryers

Although many different industries and companies rely on compressed air for their day-to-day functioning, some require a dryer form of air for their specific needs.

Manufacturing

Whether creating intricate parts for specialized machines or formulating necessary solutions and mixtures, the manufacturing industry needs compressed air systems. Since numerous types of manufacturing involve precise measurements and operations, the compressed air being used cannot be compromised by unwanted additives or particulates.

Even the tools used in manufacturing can be susceptible to damage or reduced functioning when moisture is present in the compressed air system. Gauges and meters can also malfunction or give incorrect readings, undermining or destroying a manufacturer’s line of products due to inaccuracy.

Food and Beverage

The use of compressed air in the food and beverage industry is often necessary for packaging and protecting perishable items. The contents can be spoiled or ruined if moisture is present in the air in a sealed package or bottle. Bacteria can also be introduced through moisture, which can potentially endanger consumers down the line.

Compressed air is also used to freeze products, peel and cut, insert liquids or materials, and serve as an energy source for assembly lines. Although some processes can use compressed air of less quality for their functions, dryer air is always better for the overall operation of the machines.

Pharmaceuticals

The production of medicine for human consumption is a highly regulated industry. The quality of ingredients and the cleanliness of the production plants is critical to medicine consistency and potency. Many pharmaceutical companies work tirelessly at creating sterile workspaces. If foreign materials, such as moisture or oil residue are introduced into the production process, the pharmaceutical products can become dangerous for consumers.

Petrochemicals

Whether refining gas and other fuel sources or manufacturing plastics, clean, compressed air is a valuable component in the processes. Since much of the production of petrochemicals revolves around mixing, separating, refining, and reconstituting oil-based chemicals, it’s vital to keep as much of the potential moisture and contaminants out of the processes.

Electronics

Moisture in electronics promotes corrosion and advanced oxidation, which are both extremely detrimental to the performance of electronics. Compressed air used in electronic manufacturing has to be as moisture-free as possible.

When these devices are manufactured and sealed, it’s critical that workers operate in a dry environment. The equipment and instruments used in the production of electronics can also become compromised with the introduction of moisture through the air system.

How To Choose The Best Compressed Air Dryers

Adding an air dryer to an existing system or designing a compressed air system with dryers included is often a critical step in helping a company advance economically and overall work capacity. Of course, the air dryer needed will depend on the type of company or industry in question.

At CES, we specialize in offering world-class service and expertise to all our clients. Accordingly, meeting with clients to discuss exactly what they need and expect from their compressed air systems is critical. Our team will work with each customer to design, build, and help to maintain their ideal compressed air system.

CES uses four types of air dryers in our designs.

• Refrigerated Dryers
• Heat-Less Desiccant Dryers
• Heated Blower Purge Dryers
• Heat of Compression Dryers

Depending on the client or company’s needs, our professional designers are able to recommend the best possible air compression components and solutions.

Compressed and Clean

Choosing the best vendor for your air compression needs is important. At Complete Engineered Solutions, our commitment to our clients doesn’t end once the system is in place. Our exceptional team will be there to help install, resolve questions and concerns, and provide continued support and maintenance for years to come. In addition to air compression systems, CES also offers a selection of industrial vacuum systems, chillers, and nitrogen generators. Give us a call to discuss your next industrial machine purchase and see why CES is a leader in our field.