Optimal Installation Position for Refrigerated Air Dryers

Screw air compressors are generally equipped with a set of compressed air purification equipment including dryers, filters and air receivers to guarantee the quality of compressed air. 

What is the proper installation sequence of these devices? This analysis focuses on refrigerated air dryers, the most widely used type on the market, and discusses their optimal installation location.

Classified by condenser cooling method, there are air-cooled and water-cooled models. Based on working pressure, 

they are divided into standard type (0.3–1.0 MPa) and medium & high-pressure type (above 1.2 MPa). According to inlet temperature, 

they can be categorized into high-temperature inlet type (below 80°C) and normal-temperature inlet type (around 40°C).

Many factories install refrigerated air dryers directly after air compressors, followed by air receivers. It should be emphasized that this arrangement is incorrect. 

The compressed air discharged directly from the compressor has high flow velocity and carries the largest amount of impurities and moisture. 

The robust air receiver should be placed as the first downstream equipment. It can stabilize air pressure, reduce air temperature moderately, and discharge large volumes of liquid water. 

The refrigerated air dryer must be installed after the air receiver; otherwise, its service life will be greatly shortened.