Non-Cycling Refrigerated Air Dryers

A refrigerated, non-cycling dryer is an excellent, cost-effective choice for anyone looking to improve their compressed air quality. The term “non-cycling” means this type of dryer constantly operates refrigeration. It also utilizes a hot bypass valve to redirect the coolant, even at a less-than-full load condition.

A refrigerated air compressor dryer lowers the air temperature to 3° Celsius (37° Fahrenheit), allowing water to move from vapor to dry air. Non-cycling dryers are simple, reliable, and easy to maintain.

This type of refrigerated dryer is affordable and requires relatively little investment. In addition, non-cycling dryers are quick and straightforward to install and operate. This accessibility makes them a market standard in performance and quality while exceeding expectations.

A non-cycling air compressor dryer works well with any rotary screw compressor. If you use a piston air compressor, a high-temperature version is recommended.

Since these machines run nonstop, energy consumption at full or low load is nearly identical. Therefore, these units are less energy efficient than other options on the market. If electricity costs are a priority, check out a cycling dryer.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS TO BE AWARE OF

Maximum Pressure

-Your dryer’s maximum pressure must equal or exceed your compressor’s maximum pressure.

Inlet Temperature

– Each dryer has its specified maximum inlet temperature; surpassing this can damage your equipment. If your compressor has an aftercooler, it will make sure the compressed air is at a reasonable temperature.

Maximum Flow

This refers to the maximum amount of air that can pass through your dryer. If your dryer is undersized, this can cause significant pressure drops because the air cannot pass through.

Maximum Room Temperature

-When using your equipment, consider your environment. If it’s hot outside, you risk overheating your dryer. Just ensure your ambient air temperature is above 20ºF below your max inlet temperature.

Refrigerant air dryers are the ideal solution for situations that:

• The ambient temperature is less than 50°C/122°F,
• The goal is to prevent condensation,
• The required pressure dew point is around 3°C-4°C/37°F-39°F.

The smallest amount of technology, so the cheapest version of a refrigerant air dryer you will find is the non-cycling refrigerant air dryer. The non-cycling dryers’ refrigeration stays on continuously while the compressor is running. So, if the compressor is on, the dryer will be running. If the dryer runs too long without a break, it can lead to freezing in the pipes and rapid wear on your machine.

However, these machines will work for you if you have a more minor operation that does not always need air. Overworking your machine won’t be an issue if you just need clean, dry air when you need it and don’t have a significant demand.

Want to learn more about compressed air dryers? Check out our guide on compressed air dryers here.