98% Non-Cycling Refrigerated Air Dryer, 220V - California Air | CAT-RD-91503

The California Air Tools RD-91503 is a 52 CFM non cycling refrigerated air dryer for shops that are tired of water in the lines. It fits piston compressors from about 5 HP up to 15 HP and small rotary screws, which puts it in range for cabinet shops, body shops, tire service, and any garage running spray guns, plasma cutters or sandblasting. Non cycling means the refrigeration circuit runs continuously whenever the dryer is switched on, so dew point stays steady under a changing load. The trade off is that it draws the same power whether you are using 5 CFM or 50, so size it to your compressor, not far above it.

Sizing and install

Rate the dryer against the compressor's delivered CFM, not its horsepower. A CAT 20060CAD at 14.6 CFM, a Champion 7.5 HP at 24 CFM, or a 10 HP two stage at about 35 CFM all sit comfortably under the 52 CFM rating. Inlet air should come from the receiver tank, not straight off the pump head, so the tank can shed heat and bulk water first; the dryer is rated for a 176 F inlet and a 104 F ambient. Put a 5 micron particulate filter ahead of it and a coalescing filter after it if you spray paint. It needs a 220 V single phase outlet, draws 1.5 A, and connects with 3/4 inch NPT ports. Allow clearance around the condenser for airflow and keep it out of the compressor's hot exhaust.

What it is not

This is a general purpose dryer with a 35 to 50 F pressure dew point. It is not rated to ISO 8573 and it will not deliver the sub zero dew points that breathing air, instrumentation or outdoor lines in freezing climates need; for those, look at the desiccant dryers. For everything else in a heated shop it is a cost effective way to protect tools and finishes. See the full refrigerated air dryer range for cycling units and larger capacities.

Manufacturer description

The California Air Tools RD-91503 High-Efficiency Refrigerated Air Dryer efficiently removes up to 98% of moisture from compressed air, delivering a reliable Pressure Dew Point (PDP) of 35.6°F–50°F (2°C–10°C). Ideal for general industrial applications requiring consistent dryness.

Key Specifications:

• Air Flow: 52 CFM
• Pressure Range: 29–145 PSI
• Max Inlet Temperature: 176°F
• Max Ambient Temperature: 104°F
• Voltage: 220V, 60Hz, Single-phase
• Power: 0.5 kW, 1.5A
• Inlet/Outlet Size: 3/4" NPT
• Refrigerant: R134A
• Weight & Dimensions: 88 lbs, 26.18" L x 16.92" W x 25.98" H
• Warranty: 1-Year Limited

Installation Recommendations:

• Connect directly after your air compressor and before your tools.
• Use a 5-micron (minimum) filter between the compressor and dryer to protect against contaminants.
• Installing an auxiliary air tank between the compressor and dryer can help stabilize pressure.

Limitations:

• Not ISO 8573 compliant.
• Not suitable for applications requiring ultra-clean (0.01-micron) air or extremely low dew points below -29°F.

Effective, dependable moisture removal for a variety of industrial tasks.