Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Sometimes Air and Water Don’t Mix

by Steve Kari
Tonka Equipment Company



Moisture in compressed air systems can cause problems with pneumatically controlled devices, such as valve actuators and control solenoids.  


Compressed air supply systems in this industry traditionally have been specified and supplied with refrigerated air dryer systems to remove excess moisture from the air. These systems rely on a refrigeration system to cool and condense moisture from the air stream.


We have learned through extensive investigation that these systems work most effectively if the application has a constant and steady air flow, such that the entire refrigeration system stays cold. We have therefore concluded that refrigerated air dryer systems are most appropriate for applications where air is consumed, such as systems where modulation valves or pressure
aerators are used.