Desiccant Air Dryers

Desiccant air dryers for exceptionally low pressure dew points

Desiccant air dryers are used when compressed air must be significantly drier than is required for many standard applications using a refrigerated air dryer. The systems in the current product line achieve pressure dew points as low as −40 °C. This makes them suitable for demanding industrial processes, instrument air, and other applications where residual moisture must be reduced to a very low level.

The product range consists of modular ADM systems for 0.5 to 1.5 m³/min at a maximum of 16 bar and larger ADX-F systems for 2 to 25 m³/min at a maximum of 10 bar. Both system configurations are available with either fixed cycle times or pressure dew point control. Pre- and post-filters are included in all current models.

How does a desiccant air dryer work?

In adsorption, water vapor is bound to a desiccant. Typically, two tanks or drying chambers operate alternately: while one side dries the compressed air, the other is regenerated. This ensures a continuous supply of dry compressed air.

When planning a system, it is important to note that the regeneration process itself can affect compressed air consumption and cost-effectiveness. Therefore, proper sizing is just as important as the choice of control system.

ADM for 0.5 to 1.5 m³/min and up to 16 bar

The modular ADM desiccant air dryers handle small to medium air flow rates ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 m³/min and are designed for a maximum pressure of 16 bar. They are available with fixed cycle times as well as in the ADM-PDP version with pressure dew point control.

The compact design is suitable for decentralized applications and systems that require a low pressure dew point with a comparatively moderate flow rate.

ADX-F for 2 to 25 m³/min and up to 10 bar

For larger volumes of compressed air, the current product range covers 2 to 25 m³/min. The ADX-F series is rated for a maximum of 10 bar. Here, too, there is a fixed-cycle version and a variant with pressure dew point control.

Fixed cycle times or pressure dew point control?

When cycle times are fixed, the changeover or regeneration takes place according to a defined time schedule. This ensures a clear and reproducible operating sequence. With pressure dew point control, the drying status is more heavily factored into the control system. This allows regeneration to be carried out more efficiently based on actual demand when the actual load fluctuates.

Pre-filters and post-filters protect dryers and the compressed air system

The current desiccant air dryers are offered with pre- and post-filters. The pre-filter protects the desiccant from contaminants, while the post-filter serves to protect downstream equipment from particles generated during the drying process. The filter elements are maintenance parts and must be inspected according to operating conditions.

Desiccant air dryer or refrigerated air dryer?

A desiccant air dryer is not automatically the better solution for every compressed air system. For many workshop and industrial applications, the drying capacity of a refrigerated air dryer is sufficient. A desiccant air dryer becomes a viable option when a very low pressure dew point is technically required or when moisture is particularly critical under the operating conditions.

The choice should therefore always be based on the process. An unnecessarily low pressure dew point increases equipment costs and operating expenses without providing any additional benefit.

Buy desiccant air dryers

Anyone looking to purchase a desiccant air dryer should first determine the required pressure dew point, flow rate, and operating pressure. Afterward, they can choose between the modular 16-bar systems up to 1.5 m³/min and the larger 10-bar systems up to 25 m³/min. The decision between fixed cycle times and pressure dew point control depends in particular on the load profile and the desired operating mode.