Why is compressed air wet?

May 25, 2023

Untreated compressed air always contains contaminants because of the nature of the gas and how it is produced. The need for air treatment basically results from 3 characteristics of compressed air.

Contaminants

Liquid water - water aerosols - water vapor

How are the contaminants formed?

As water is incompressible, the amount of moisture per m³ increases when air is compressed. The maximum amount of moisture per m³ air is however limited for a certain temperature. Condensation will thus be formed when air is compressed.

What problems can the contaminants cause?

Corrosion of pipe lines
Bad quality of the end product
Malfunctioning of controls
Build-up of ice
Cultivation of micro-organisms

Educational Compressed Air Dryers Refrigeration dryers Membrane dryers Adsorption dryers

Compressed Air Dryers

If you've worked with an air compressor, you've likely noticed the air is saturated with moisture. This is because water, in contrast to air, is incompressible. The amount of moisture per volume unit increases when air is compressed, creating condensation. Our compressed air dryers are vital for removing this moisture, which can cause corrosion, quality issues, and microorganisms in your air system.

Adsorption Dryers

Adsorption or desiccant dryers remove moisture from air or gas streams by passing them through a porous material called a desiccant, ensuring dry and moisture-free conditions.

Membrane Dryers

Using a process called “selective permeation,” membrane dryers can help remove that moisture to ensure the required air quality standards are met.

Refrigeration Dryers

Refrigeration dryers are the most commonly used dryers for removing moisture from compressed air. They therefore play an important role in shielding compressed air systems from corrosion and protecting your equipment and end products alike.

See all Compressed Air Dryers

Why is compressed air wet?

Why is compressed air wet?

Contaminants

How are the contaminants formed?