So you’re having problems with a refrigerated compressed air dryer.Mostly likely you began to notice the problem because water appeared in your air tools or pneumatics. Here are 5 simple items to check before you run out and buy a new dryer.

Ambient Temperature – Most refrigerated air dryers are rated for a maximum ambient temperature of 110⁰ F.  (PRD Series dryers are rated for 122⁰ F.) If the area where your dryer is installed exceeds this temperature you will certainly have problems. Note that the rated capacity of all refrigerated dryers decreases as the ambient temperature rises. The “name plate” capacity of a dryer is based on 100⁰ F ambient. If you’re running in an area hotter than that and also pushing full flow through the unit, you are sure to have problems. Consider moving the dryer or better ventilating / cooling the installation area.

Compressed Air Temperature – Check the temperature of the compressed air going into the dryer. If it exceeds 100⁰ F you might have a problem. If the pipe going into the dryer feels warm to the touch, the air is too hot. Use an after-cooler or extended piping run to dissipate heat.

High Differential Pressure – There are a few causes for high differential pressure through a refrigerated dryer. First, check that that you’re not exceeding the rated flow capacity of the unit. If that’s not it, the heat exchanger might be clogged with debris or oily sludge. Take the unit offline and blow compressed air through the dryer in reverse (i.e. put air into the dryer outlet) to flush out debris. Once you’ve cleaned out the heat exchanger, install a coalescing pre-filter. This filter will keep gunk out of the heat exchangers.

Dirty Condenser – The refrigeration condenser will inevitably collect dust. Blow off the condenser once per month. The condenser is easy to identify. It’s the assembly the fan pushes air across.

High Refrigerant Pressure – This could be caused by a bad pressure switch, a dirty condenser, or a bad fan motor. Repair or replace as needed.

Have you gone through these and other troubleshooting steps and decided that it’s time to replace the dryer? Well, I’ve got your back. Superior quality PRD Series dryers from Parker are available here 10 – 100 CFM. Shipping to U.S. is always free.

Have questions?  Email me.  Tyler@moistureboss.com.