Compare REFRIGERATED AIR DRYERS. Refrigerated compressed air dryers can operate at higher air inlet temperatures, higher pressures and higher oil vapor content in the air than desiccant air dryers. Further, refrigerated compressed air dryers can operate continuously.

The purchasing costs of refrigerated compressed air dryers are less than for desiccant air dryers, but the operating costs ( electricity ) are higher. The installation is simple, it requires only the air and drain hook ups plus the electric power connection.

The moisture level of the compressed air can be reduced to a dew point of approximately 35 F. Different refrigerants give different drying efficiency, but may not be permitted by local ordinance. For many applications, refrigerated compressed air dryers are used ahead of a desiccant air dryer. In this manner, the heat and moisture levels can be lowered to a point where the desiccant air dryers can lower the dew point of the compressed air  to minus 100 F degrees.

Refrigerated air dryers are manufactured by the same companies that make desiccant compressed air dryers. These companies can give the best advice on the type or combination of compressed air dryers will perform best for a specific application.