Atlas Copco expands desiccant dryer offer with new energy efficient CD+ and CD ranges

Atlas Copco has introduced two new dryer ranges, the CD 25⁺-260⁺ and the CD 25-260, that are designed to meet the strictest energy requirements. The innovative heatless desiccant dryers deliver increased efficiency and reliable continuous operation for industrial applications.

“The new CD⁺ and CD dryers are available now in inlet capacities ranging from 25-260 l/s, and have been launched to provide our customers with maximum flexibility when it comes to selecting an energy efficient dryer for their specific needs,” said Keith Barron, National Sales Manager at Atlas Copco.

The CD⁺ dryer range delivers high efficiency for applications requiring a continuous supply of compressed air. Models in the range offer minimal purge loss and pressure drop at a constant pressure dewpoint of -20 °C, -40 °C or -70 °C as standard. Meanwhile, dryers in the CD 25-260 range provide a constant pressure dewpoint of -20 °C or -40 °C.

CD⁺ and CD dyers are designed to perform reliably at 100 per cent airflow, whereas most dryers on the market are only built to work at 70-80 per cent. As a result, customers enjoy a constant pressure dewpoint and process, even with fluctuating air demand.

Desiccant dryers consist of two towers filled with an adsorbent material that removes moisture from the compressed air. The desiccant has a finite adsorption capacity. Therefore, while one tower is drying air, the other is dried out in a process called regeneration. Heatless desiccant dryers use compressed air for purging during regeneration. If this process is executed inefficiently, the cost of operating a heatless desiccant can be significant. For this reason, the new CD⁺ and CD dryers have been designed to offer a very low pressure drop – below 0.2 bar for most models – as well as an efficient regeneration process to keep operational costs low.

CD⁺ and CD dryers come equipped with a state-of-the-art control system with optional Dewpoint Dependent Switching (DDS). With DDS, a dewpoint sensor will delay switching towers until necessary. This cycle time extension can generate energy savings of up to 90 per cent, which significantly reduces the cost of operating the dryer. The controller also synchronises the dryer with the compressor, turning on/off when the compressor does.

The dryers in CD⁺ and CD ranges feature a revolutionary new type of manifold. Its electronically-operated valve ensures dependable tower switching, even in rough conditions. Meanwhile, an intelligently designed strainer with “swirl” technology distributes the airflow optimally and decreases uneven wear of the desiccant. This robust and reliable design is a first in the industry and contributes to the minimal operating costs of the dryers.

To increase work floor comfort, the dryers feature an innovative silencing system. The CD⁺ also features a large front silencer designed to reduce pressure drop.

The CD⁺ and CD dryers were built for ease of use and flexibility. Desiccant bags allow for quick replacement without spilling adsorbent material. Additionally, outside service panels ensure quick and easy maintenance, so that service costs and downtime are kept to a minimum. A wide range of optional nozzles is available so that customers can optimise regeneration pressure and reduce the required compressed air.

Because of their simplicity and reliability, the CD⁺ and CD dryers are perfectly suited for extreme environments and applications with a high inlet air temperature. Typical applications include food and beverage, oil and gas, electronics, and pharmaceutical production.

The CD 25⁺-260⁺ and CD 25-260 ranges are available now and will replace the previous CD 25⁺-145⁺, CD 32-190 and CD 220-300 models.