Dry air is happy air

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Air dryers are something we give little thought to until something goes wrong. Most of us understand that dryer sizing is related to compressor size. Moisture is a byproduct of compressed air, hence the dryers name. Hopefully, all of us understand that when we pull the cables on the tanks, we are releasing some of that water.

But do you know that the air volume (I.E., compressor work and dryer requirements) are dictated by the chassis components and the vehicle service? Above is a Bendix® chart that serves as an excellent guideline for air dryer sizing. Even if your OE does not require an upgrade, if you are on the cusp of needing an upgraded dryer then ordering the vehicle with the product may reduce maintenance for your customer.

It’s a simple process, review the chart and add the appropriate points for each category that applies to your chassis. Once tallied, compare your chassis number with the following guidelines:

• 2-6 Points: Standard air dryer

• 6.5-9 points: Extended purge air dryer

• 9.5-13 points: Tandem installed air dryers

• 14+ points: Everflow® air dryer assembly (option for 9.5-13 as well)

In today’s world it is never a good idea to omit the dryer with air brakes. Above that, the best practice is to use a coalescing filter. These products trap oil and protect the valves.