Adsorption is a physical phenomenon. Gaseous molecules are attracted to solid surfaces by Van der Waals forces. It includes polar-polar attraction, ion-ion attraction, polar-ion attraction, gravitational attraction, and other intermolecular forces. These have strong adhesive forces due to which gaseous molecules adsorb onto solid surfaces even at very low concentrations in a carrier gas.
The adsorption dryer absorbs the moisture in the compressed air up to a pressure dew point of -40°F. Finally, in the after-filter, remaining particles from the drying agent are retained.
Adsorption dryer mainly consist of:
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Dryer inlet
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Pre-filter
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Condensate drain
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Lower shuttle valve
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Drying agent cartridge
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Upper shuttle valve
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After-filter
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Dryer outlet
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Processor control
Adsorption Air Dryer Process
The drying of compressed air is a multi-step process :-
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A compressor pressurizes ambient air containing moisture to an elevated pressure, and temperature.
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The air is then cooled below the elevated vapor pressure of the water.
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A large amount of condensation is produced.
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The drying process begins with a mechanical separator.
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Then a coalescing filter is used to remove the bulk liquid and water mist from the compressed air stream.
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A regenerable adsorption unit is used to reduce the water vapor content to a very low level.
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A final filter removes the adsorbent fines entrained in the purified compressed air
Applications of Adsorption Air Dryer :-
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In laser cutting systems
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In bottling plants
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In dental laboratories
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In packaging machines
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In rail vehicles
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In optical measuring systems
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In sprinkler system
