Comparing Air Compressor Intercooler and Aftercooler
When it comes to air compressor cooling applications, there are two types of devices that can be used, the air compressor intercooler and the aftercooler.
An air compressor intercooler and aftercooler are both used to cool air released from the compressor to alleviate the immense temperature to prevent damage to sensitive process components. However, their main difference is where they are positioned in the system.
In this blog, we will be comparing air compressor intercoolers and aftercoolers and also address the most frequently asked questions about them.
What Is an Intercooler?
An air compressor intercooler is a device used on a two stage compressor to cool the air from the first compressor stage (LP) of compression before it enters the second compressor stage (HP).
Moisture is always present in atmospheric air and since compressed air uses atmospheric air, this water content is transferred to the compressed air as well. Failure to remove the moisture can result in inefficient functioning and can even halt the production process.
What Is an Aftercooler?
What Is the Difference Between Air Compressor Intercooler and Aftercooler?
Even though both intercoolers and aftercoolers are incredibly similar and referred to as air charge coolers, there are subtle differences between them. Let’s address them one by one.
Functioning
There is a slight difference between the functioning of air compressor intercooler and aftercooler. While an intercooler cools the air leaving the first stage outlet before the second stage inlet, an aftercooler cools the air leaving the final stage that goes out from the compression unit.
Placement
Generally the intercoolers are used in a multi stage compressor as single stage compressors only require an aftercooler.
The aftercooler, on the other hand, is usually located at the end of the air compression system where air discharge occurs.
Application
An intercooler is a crucial component that reduces air temperature by cooling it. Intercoolers are primarily found in air multi stage compressors.
Aftercoolers work follows a similar application like an intercooler.
General FAQs About Air Compressor Intercooler & Aftercooler
Why Do We Use Intercoolers Between Compressor Stages?
The intercooler is placed between compressor stages to ensure that the air entering the next phase of compression is cool. The cooler the air, the less burden is placed on the second stage, and it enables the air compressor system to function efficiently.
Do intercoolers need cleaning?
Like every other component of an air compressor, intercoolers need cleaning too. They function much like a car radiator and become clogged or blocked. Of course, the number of times it requires cleaning depends on the usage. In general, it is advised to clean intercoolers externally once a month for air cooled and internally once a year for both air cooled and water cooled.
How is an air cooled intercooler different from a water cooled intercooler?
While the air cooled intercooler uses air as a cooling agent, a water cooled intercooler uses water for the same purpose. Since water has more tendency to carry heat than air, a water cooled intercooler is smaller in size than an intercooler.
Why Do We Need an Aftercooler?
Aftercoolers are an integral part of air compressor systems. They reduce the excessive heat and maintain a good low temperature for the air net.
Where Is the Aftercooler Located?
A compressor aftercooler is placed after the final stage of the air compressor, where the final discharge takes place.
How much temperature does the intercooler in an air compressor control?
Generally, the intercooler has the tendency to cool the compressed air within 20-30 degrees of the ambient air temperature.
What type of air compressors have an intercooler?
Two-stage air compressor systems have an intercooler installed inside of them. Intercoolers are used to remove excess heat from the first stage of the two stage compressor.
What are the two types of intercoolers?
Intercooler comes in two different variants. One is water-based and the other one is air-based. An air-to-air intercooler uses air to cool down the air temperature released from the first stage. Whereas, a (water-to-water intercooler uses water to do the same.
Atlas Copco – The Best Supplier of Air Compressors & Their Accessories
At Atlas Copco, we are leading manufacturer and supplier of efficient compressed air solutions in the UAE. Our comprehensive range comprises air compressor systems, intercoolers, aftercoolers, and other essentialities.
Contact our industrial air compressor experts at Atlas Copco for a free quotation and to determine which air compressor system and accessories work best for your facility.