COMPRESSED AIR DRYERS WHITEPAPER PLACEMENT OF AIR RECEIVER TANKS
One final variable to consider is the type of air receiver tank to use and where to place it. We all know that properly sizing them is essential to keeping compressed air costs down. Choosing an air receiver that is too small can be dangerous if there is an unexpected surge in demand. On the other hand, selecting an air receiver that is too large can be a waste of money. But once you picked one, how do you know where to put it? Here is a helpful guide:
Some operators install an air receiver tank upstream of the air dryer. This is called a "wet receiver tank" because the compressed air is still saturated with moisture. Sending the compressed air through a wet receiver tank can help cool it and partly remove the condensate and the oil it contains. Because it already allows moisture to escape from the air prior to the drying process, a wet receiver tank facilitates the work of the compressed air dryer.
As the name implies, wet receiver tanks are filled with saturated air. This can be a problem in the event of a rapid increase in demand. If the demand exceeds the nominal capacity of the compressor and dryer, the dryer may be overloaded. This results in a high-pressure dew point, or more water vapor in the air, which can damage the system or negatively impact the tools or processes the compressed air is used for. Note that hen a wet receiver is used, there cannot be direct connection between the compressor and the dryer.
Compressed air is sent to a dry receiving tank after passing through a dryer. Although it doesn't help the dryer by eliminating condensation beforehand, it offers its own advantages. Any unforeseen demand can be met with dry air and it does not place unnecessary strain on the dryer. Air receiver tanks are key components of compressed air systems. In addition to storing the compressed air, they also play an important role in eliminating the condensate and modulating pressure. Take a look at your system and locate your air receiver tanks.
