Dryers for Small Compressed Air Systems

 Ingersoll Rand introduces a new line of energy-saving, refrigerated compressed air dryers. The Ingersoll Rand D-EC Energy-Saving Refrigerated Compressed Air Dryers are available in eight models, ranging in capacities from 10 to 125 standard cubic feet per minute (SCFM). The D-EC dryers are ideal for small commercial compressed air users such as machine shops, automotive repair and refinishing businesses and light manufacturing applications.  

The D-EC cycling dryers incorporate a thermal mass that stores cold energy, providing enhanced operating efficiency over competitive non-cycling products in this range. The thermal mass cools the air flowing through the dryer, allowing the refrigeration system to turn off during periods of low demand without degrading air quality.  The new D-EC dryers offer many features that are not typically available on small capacity models. The patented, multi-layer heat exchanger combines the chiller, evaporator and pre-cooler/reheater to optimize the efficiency of the dryer and compressed air system. In addition, the precooler/reheater exchanger warms the air exiting the dryer, thereby eliminating the potential for ambient moisture to condense on the outer surface of the downstream piping.  A timer-based solenoid drain is installed on the D-EC dryers to automatically empty moisture from the dryer at regular intervals. Air temperatures affect the amount of moisture in a compressed air system; users can adjust the timer to empty more frequently during the summer when there is more humidity in the air.  

The D-EC dryer is configured to minimize pressure drop, which maximizes the efficiency of the entire compressed air system. The dryer includes a digital controller that automatically adjusts the airflow and temperature to keep the system within the parameters defined by the plant manager. This ensures worry-free operation and extends the dryer’s usable product life.  “Most facilities have varying degrees of compressed air use where first shift, for example, may have higher demand than second and third shifts,” explained Christopher Ursillo, marketing manager – air treatment, Ingersoll Rand. “Non-cycling dryers run at full power continuously,  while Ingersoll Rand D-EC cycling dryers automatically adjust to the current compressed air volume. This enables operators to minimize energy consumption and operating costs.”  The energy-efficient D-EC dryer uses a minimal amount of refrigerant to cool the compressed air. This maximizes its environmental stability and helps facilities adhere to sustainable manufacturing practices. The compact design also minimizes the dryer’s footprint and installation and shipping costs.