Aftercoolers are heat exchangers used in compressed air systems to cool hot, compressed air immediately after it leaves the compressor. Cooling the air reduces its temperature and causes moisture to condense, making it easier to remove water from the system.
Types:
- Air-Cooled Aftercoolers: Use ambient air to cool compressed air via a fan and finned tubing.
- Water-Cooled Aftercoolers: Use water as the cooling medium through a shell-and-tube design.
Benefits:
- Removes moisture to prevent corrosion and equipment damage
- Improves air quality for downstream tools and processes
- Protects dryers and filters by reducing their moisture load
- Extends the life of pneumatic equipment
Aftercoolers are essential for improving the efficiency and reliability of compressed air systems by cooling air and removing water vapor before it reaches tools or air dryers.