SMC Air Dryers – Reliable and energy-efficient compressed air-drying solutions
Compressed air contains moisture that can compromise industrial processes and equipment. SMC offers a wide selection of high-performance air dryers for compressed air systems, engineered to remove humidity reliably, reduce maintenance, and ensure consistent production quality. Our air-drying solutions meet the needs of a wide range of industries – from electronics to food and beverage manufacturing.
What is a compressed air dryer?
An air dryer is a device that removes moisture from compressed air. This prevents problems such as corrosion, contamination, condensation, and equipment failure. Compressed air dryers are essential in applications where clean, dry compressed air is critical for system integrity and product quality.
Types of air dryers offered by SMC
SMC provides two main categories of industrial air dryers:
The IDFA series refrigerated air dryers lower the temperature of compressed air to condense and remove moisture, delivering a stable pressure dew point as low as 3°C. These dryers are ideal for general-purpose applications where energy efficiency and dew point stability are key.
Key features of our refrigerated compressed air dryers:
- Wide operating range: Handle ambient temperatures up to 45°C and inlet air temperatures up to 60°C and deliver air at a pressure dew point as low as 10°C, 7°C or 3°C
- Low GWP refrigerants: Options include R1234yf and R454C for European markets and R134a or R410A for global usage.
- Corrosion-resistant heat exchanger: Made from stainless steel for long service life.
- Models available: From compact IDFA3E (12 m³/h) to high-capacity IDFA150F (1,500 m³/h).
- Compressor air dryer options: Single-phase and three-phase power compatibility.
The IDG and IDG-A membrane air dryers remove moisture using a hollow fibre membrane. They are highly compact and don’t require a power supply, making them ideal for decentralised or point-of-use applications that integrate seamlessly into FRL units and compact assemblies for system flexibility.
Technical highlights:
- Non-electric: Ideal for installations without power access.
- Custom dew points: Choose models based on dew point needs
- Built-in dew point indicator: Visual confirmation of air dryness (except in some small models).
- Low purge air ratios: Reduced energy consumption due to optimised purge design.
Typical applications for industrial air dryers
Air dryers are essential in a wide variety of industries where air quality directly impacts process integrity and product quality. SMC dryers are engineered to perform consistently even in the most demanding conditions, ensuring operational reliability across sectors.
- Food and Beverage – Prevents moisture contamination, supporting hygiene and safety standards.
- Pharmaceuticals – Maintains strict environmental control during production.
- Automotive and Manufacturing – Ensures optimal performance of pneumatic tools and painting systems.
- Packaging, Printing, and Textile – Maintains product consistency and process efficiency.
- Electronics – Protects sensitive electronic components from moisture damage.
If you are interested in learning more about compressed air quality and how to select the right product combination for your needs, be sure to check our guidelines for air quality.
Why choose an SMC air dryer?
Designed for durability and long-term performance, SMC air dryers are an ideal solution for industries seeking stable and clean compressed air.
- Energy-efficient operation – Smart designs reduce power consumption while maintaining performance
- Compact and space-saving – Ideal for installations with limited footprint
- Stable dew point control – Maintains consistent air dryness to protect systems and products
- Low maintenance requirements – Built for longevity with minimal servicing needs
- Environmentally friendly options – Refrigerant models compliant with current EU regulations
Find the right compressed air dryer
If you need to size a dryer for your manufacturing site, we recommend using our Refrigerated Air Dryer Selector. You can configure your line parameters and identify the best solution to keep moisture under control in your factory.
Need help selecting the right air dryer for your application? Contact our experts for personalised advice.
