Air & Water-Cooled Aftercooler
The aftercoolers found in the AfterCooler Air series use ambient air to cool released compressed air from the compressor with an outlet temperature only 10°C higher than the ambient temperature. The condensate is then collected and discharged into the cyclone which is installed at the outlet of the aftercooler.
The aftercoolers found in the AfterCooler Water series allow effective cleaning by cooling the air at the outlet from the compressor with an outlet temperature of only 10°C higher than the inlet process water. This cooling causes condensation of up to 80% of the moisture present in the compressed air, which is separated from the air and directed down the cyclone installed at the outlet of the cooler.
An aftercooler for compressed air is a device used to cool compressed air that comes out of an air compressor before it is used or further processed. The purpose of cooling is to reduce the temperature of the compressed air, which helps condense and remove moisture from the air. This is important as moisture in the compressed air system can cause issues such as corrosion and icing in pipelines and tools, as well as reduced efficiency in pneumatic systems.
Operating principle:
When air is compressed, its temperature rises. The aftercooler works by passing the hot air through cooling elements that effectively remove the heat from the air. This can be done using air-cooled or water-cooled systems.
Types of aftercoolers:
Air-cooled aftercoolers: These use ambient air to cool the compressed air. They are often equipped with a fan that blows air over the cooling fins.
Water-cooled aftercoolers: These use water to remove heat from the compressed air. Water-cooled systems are generally more effective in very hot or industrial environments.
Benefits of using aftercoolers:
Reduces moisture content in compressed air, which reduces the risk of corrosion and damage to air-driven tools. Improves the overall efficiency of the compressed air system by ensuring that the air delivered to processes or tools is cleaner and drier. Increases the lifespan of the compressor and associated equipment.
Applications:
Aftercoolers are common in many industrial applications, including manufacturing processes, the automotive industry, painting, and pneumatic tool operations.
Installation and maintenance of an aftercooler are important to ensure optimal performance and to avoid costly breakdowns in compressed air systems. Regular maintenance includes checking for leaks, ensuring that cooling surfaces are clean, and verifying that the cooling system is functioning properly.