Process Overview

The refrigerated air dryer operates through a two-stage process during which each stage plays a vital role in achieving optimal air drying results.

Stage 1: Air-to-Air Heat Exchanger

At the initial stage the compressed air enters the dryer and flows through an air-to-air heat exchanger. This heat exchanger serves the purpose of pre-cooling the incoming air which effectively reduces its temperature. By pre-cooling the air the heat exchanger facilitates the subsequent stages of the drying process and enhances the overall efficiency of the refrigerated air dryer.

Stage 2: Air-to-Refrigerant Heat Exchanger

The compressed air then moves into the second stage of the process by passing through an air-to-refrigerant heat exchanger. In this stage the compressed air’s dew point is significantly reduced and typically reaches the temperatures as low as 3°C / 37°F. The reduction in temperature causes the water vapor present in the air to condense into liquid form. This liquid is subsequently trapped and removed from the system. The air exiting the refrigerated air dryer becomes significantly drier by eliminating the condensed water.

To further prevent the formation of condensate in downstream piping and ensure a consistently dry air stream. The now dry air undergoes a final step. It is directed back to the air-to-air heat exchanger where it is warmed up. This process of warming the dry air reduces its relative humidity and mitigates the chances of condensate formation in the subsequent piping and maintains the desired dryness of the compressed air.