Contaminant Removal from Compressed Air Brake Systems

Contaminants such as water vapor, carbon, and oil are present in varying degrees in all compressed air systems of heavy construction equipment. This presentation describes methods of removing these contaminants to reduce the number and severity of problems that may develop in the air brake system. The basic mechanical and thermodynamic characteristics of compressed air drying are discussed as they relate to dryers, aftercoolers, and other devices available for moisture removal.

An analysis of the benefits accrued through contaminant removal is presented including such topics as reduced corrosion, extension of compressor life, reduced downtime, and elimination of air system freezeup. Moisture expelling devices such as aftercoolers, heat exchangers, and expulsion valves are compared to and contrasted with state-of-the-art air dryers.