2024-03-11

How to prevent and solve the problem of local freezing in compressed air system?


When the temperature drops below 34 °F(1°C), partial freezing may occur at multiple points in the compressed air system. Here are important tips on how we can prevent local freezing in compressed air systems in winter:
 
Install the correct filter and dry the air
 
The best way to prevent downstream freezing is to reduce the pressure dew point (PDP). You can do this by reducing the PDP to the lowest temperature that the compressed air system can handle. Removing water vapor from the system will automatically lower the (pressure) dew point of the air. This will greatly reduce the chance of the compressed air system freezing and blocking.
 
Ensure that the compressed air is as dry as possible by installing the correct size filter and dryer in the system.
 
The first line of defense to remove the condensate accumulated in the system is the water separator. When installed, the water separator can remove up to 99.99 percent of the standing water. The coalescing filter can then remove fine oil mist and particles from the air and condition the air to a level suitable for a compressed air dryer. A desiccator is then used to remove residual water vapor. The dryer is ideal for applications or installations where the temperature may drop below freezing. Concorde's adsorption dryer can reach -40 ℃) pressure dew point.
 
Installing compressed air heater
 
If the point-of-use equipment used is experiencing local freezing and the air flow is low, it may be helpful to install a compressed air heater. Sometimes low air temperatures do not cause the system to freeze, but instead cause problems in the application. In these cases, the compressed air heater will increase the temperature of the compressed air in a controlled manner to make it meet the requirements of the application.
 
Elevated temperature
 
Raising the ambient temperature around the vents, valves and solenoids reduces the likelihood of freezing. To do this, add a heat trace to the bleed point where the device is used.
 
Installing insulation on any external piping will also help prevent condensation from freezing inside the piping. In addition, it will prevent problems with icing or blowing downstream in the system.
 
Remember: It is always important to operate the equipment within the temperature range recommended by the manufacturer.
 
Maintenance is key
 
Regular maintenance can help your system maintain the highest possible energy efficiency throughout the year (not only in winter). These simple steps can be taken to ensure that your compressed air system is operating effectively:
 
Check if the drain is blocked-if the water is not effectively drained, the possibility of freezing is much greater.
 
Identify and repair leaks-air temperature decreases with expansion. Therefore, leakage can cause freezing, wasting energy and reducing the overall efficiency of the system.
 
Maintain your filters and dryers-they remove water and prevent freezing downstream. If the filter is clogged, pressure drop will occur more frequently and the risk of product contamination will increase. Regular replacement of filter elements is essential to maintain air quality and prevent unnecessary water and contamination in compressed air systems.
 
If you want more suggestions on preparing compressed air systems for winter weather, please feel free to contact us.

Compressed Air, Dryers, Filters, Compressed Air Filters