Basic Structure
The system comprises three core components: Refrigeration System Heat Exchange System Electrical Control System | Refrigeration SystemKey components: Refrigeration compressor Evaporator Condenser Thermal expansion valve Hot gas bypass valve The refrigerant circulates continuously, undergoing phase changes and multiple heat exchanges to cool the compressed air. |
Heat Exchange SystemCore elements: Precooler (or recuperative heat exchanger) Evaporator tubes Cyclonic separator
| Functions:Recovers cold energy from outgoing dry air. Provides cooling space for incoming air. Separates condensed liquid from air.
|
Electrical Control SystemComponents: Contactors Thermal overload relays Time relays Role: Automates and safeguards the refrigeration system through precise control logic. | WorkflowCompressed Air Process Incoming moist air enters the precooler, exchanging heat with outgoing cold, dry air. Results in reduced enthalpy, temperature, and moisture content. Partially dried air flows into the evaporator for further cooling via refrigerant heat exchange Achieves target dew point at evaporator outlet. Air-liquid mixture enters the cyclonic separator to remove condensed water. Dry air returns to the precooler, reheats via incoming air, and exits the dryer. |
Refrigerant Process
High-pressure gas from the compressor enters the condenser, releasing heat to liquefy.
Liquid refrigerant passes through a thermal expansion valve, becoming a low-pressure gas-liquid mixture.
In the evaporator, the refrigerant absorbs heat from compressed air and vaporizes.
Vaporized refrigerant returns to the compressor, completing the cycle.
Frost Prevention Mechanism
To prevent ice buildup on evaporator surfaces (critical for airflow stability):
A hot gas bypass valve regulates evaporation pressure.
When pressure drops excessively, the valve injects hot refrigerant gas to maintain evaporator surface temperatures above 0°C.