COMPRESSED AIR DRYERS WHITEPAPER FAQ
While it is possible to add a separate dryer to a compressed air system, is it better to buy a compressor with integrated dryer?
In general, yes. A compressor with an integrated dryer especially makes sense when space is limited and dry air is an absolute necessity. An integrated dryer is designed to work specifically with the corresponding compressor and the entire system is packaged in a canopy that minimizes space requirements, reduces operating noise levels as well as installation and maintenance costs.
Disadvantage: The sizing of the integrated dryers is based on the standard working conditions. This means that the combination of the compressor and dryer is not always the best combination when working in different conditions. Also, maintenance is a bit more difficult, as there is less space for the operator to carry out the necessary maintenance actions.
If I have a VSD compressor, should I choose a VSD dryer and conversely, if I have a fixed-speed compressor, should I choose a fixed-speed dryer?
For applications with a constant compressed air demand, a fixed-speed compressor and dryer can efficiently provide the required air. For applications where the compressed air demand varies (e.g. because of different processes, the workload at different times in the day or shift operation), a VSD compressor is much more efficient because it only produces as much air as is needed.
The combination of a fixed-speed dryer and a VSD compressor does not offer substantial benefits beyond the energy savings the compressor provides as the fixed-speed dryer will be sized to meet the maximum power of the VSD compressor. However, when a VSD compressor and a VSD dryer are used together, each of them will generate energy savings, which makes them the most efficient combination.
How important are dryers to the overall efficiency of the system?
Dryers can play a very big role in the efficiency of a compressed air system. A dryer that is not optimized for efficiency can easily add 10% to your overall energy bill, whereas an efficient compressed air dryer should contribute only about 2% at most. The drying technology and size of the dryer you choose should complement your compressed air flow and air quality requirements.
For example, if your compressed air consumption is relatively low, then the use of an inefficient but inexpensive dryer may be the best solution. However, for applications that require more compressed air, the investment in more expensive but efficient technologies makes sense. In addition, new technologies, like the Cerades™ solid desiccant that Atlas Copco has patented, can further improve energy efficiency while providing high quality dried air.
If this all seems like a lot of information to take in, simply turn to the experts for a compressed air audit that can help you calculate the current cost of your compressed air dryer, evaluate the most suitable technology and show the efficiency benefits of an investment in VSD technology for both compressor and dryer.
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