Jäähdytyskuivain

A jäähdytyskuivain, or refrigerated dryer, is a type of compressed air dryer used in industrial and commercial applications to remove moisture from compressed air. It operates by cooling the compressed air to a temperature at which water vapor condenses into liquid water. This liquid water is then separated from the air and removed.

The process typically involves a refrigeration system similar to that used in refrigerators or air conditioners. Compressed air enters a heat exchanger where it is cooled by a refrigerant. As the air cools, its dew point decreases, causing water vapor to condense. The condensed water is collected in a moisture separator, often a demister or a filter, and then discharged from the system. The cooled, dry air then passes through another heat exchanger where it is warmed back up to near its inlet temperature before being delivered to the application. This reheating step helps prevent condensation in downstream piping.

Refrigerated dryers are effective for many applications where extremely dry air is not required. They are a cost-effective solution for general-purpose drying. However, their effectiveness is limited by ambient temperature and the incoming air temperature, and they are not suitable for applications requiring very low dew points, such as those in the food and beverage or pharmaceutical industries. They are generally designed to achieve dew points in the range of 2 to 10 degrees Celsius. Regular maintenance, including cleaning of heat exchangers and checking refrigerant levels, is important for optimal performance.