Mastering compressed air: Summer challenge

As the scorching summer sun blankets Australia with relentless heat, industries across the continent grapple with the impact of high temperatures on their equipment. Compressed air systems, in particular, face unique challenges during the summer months, necessitating a closer look at the role of refrigeration dryers in maintaining the quality and efficiency of compressed air.

Summer vs. winter: Changing requirements for compressed air quality

Compressed air plays a crucial role in various industrial applications, powering machinery and tools that drive productivity. However, the demands on compressed air quality shift significantly between seasons, especially here in Australia where summer temperatures can reach extreme levels.

 

During winter, the air tends to be cooler and holds less moisture. Compressed air systems can generally handle these conditions without significant issues. However, as summer arrives, the warmer air carries a higher moisture content. This increased humidity poses a threat to the quality of compressed air, leading to potential corrosion, equipment malfunction, and a decline in overall system efficiency.

Summer heat

The role of refrigeration dryers

In combating the challenges posed by the Australian summer, the spotlight falls on refrigeration dryers as indispensable components of compressed air systems. These dryers play a pivotal role in managing moisture levels and ensuring the delivery of high-quality compressed air, regardless of the external conditions.

 

1. Moisture control
Refrigeration dryers work by cooling the compressed air, causing moisture to condense into liquid form. This moisture is then efficiently removed from the air stream, preventing it from causing corrosion or damaging downstream equipment. In the summer, when humidity levels soar, the effectiveness of refrigeration dryers becomes paramount in maintaining optimal compressed air quality.

 

2. Preventing equipment damage
The moisture-laden air in summer can lead to rust and corrosion within the compressed air system. Refrigeration dryers act as a barrier against these corrosive effects, preserving the integrity of the equipment and extending its lifespan. This preventative measure is especially crucial in industries where precision and reliability are non-negotiable.

 

3. Enhancing efficiency
An efficient compressed air system is a productive one. Refrigeration dryers contribute to the overall efficiency of the system by ensuring that the air delivered is free from excess moisture. This not only protects equipment but also enhances the performance of air-powered tools and machinery, contributing to a smoother workflow.

Beat the heat with local experts and robust stock available

In the face of Australia's summer heat, the importance of refrigeration dryers in maintaining the quality and efficiency of compressed air cannot be overstated. These critical components act as guardians, protecting equipment, preventing corrosion, and ensuring the smooth operation of compressed air systems. As industries gear up for the summer challenge, investing in high-quality refrigeration dryers becomes a strategic move to safeguard productivity and equipment reliability. Embrace the power of refrigeration dryers and conquer the summer heat with confidence.

Contact our air treatment experts

The atmosphere contains humidity, in some climates or seasons more than others. When this ambient air is compressed, its temperature increases and its moisture content becomes more concentrated. When it leaves the compressor, the hot compressed air has typically reached 100% relative humidity. This means that moisture content in compressed air cannot be avoided. But it can be removed – with the help of a compressed air dryer. Learn more here.

A refrigerated air dryer uses a refrigeration system to cool compressed air and then condense and drain the moisture in the air. Here’s how it works. The untreated air enters the dryer and gets a first cool-down by the exiting cool, dry air in an air-to-air heat exchanger. Learn more about benefits of refrigerated dryers.

When employing an air compressor to drive pneumatic tools, it's common for the compressed air to carry contaminants, particularly moisture. Over time, the water entering your pneumatic tools through compressed air lines can lead to rust and deterioration, resulting in the constant need for tool replacements and potential operational downtime. Read more

Air dryers are sized based on your ambient temperature and incoming air, as well as the capacity of your air compressor. The larger the power consumption of your compressor, the larger the flow the dryer must be able to handle. Most importantly, you want to choose the right dryer based on the temperature of your environment and the air quality needs of your application. Explore more.