Hi-line Industries has released the 2021 version of its energy-efficient Tundra refrigeration dryers. Most notable among the enhancements is a switch of refrigerant to R513a in models up to and including Tundra 115 (115 cfm, 195 m3/hr capacity). A HFC/HFO blend, R513a refrigerant has no ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential) and a much reduced CO2 impact in comparison with the previous R134a refrigerant. As a result, customers can rest assured that Hi-line is continuing its commitment to sustainability in manufacturing by minimising its carbon footprint.
Safe alternative
The F-Gas regulation means that refrigerants with a GWP (Global Warming Potential) of more than 2500 are now subject to a ban. However, while R134a is below this limit and remains legal, it is sufficiently high for the regulation to stipulate an incremental phasing-down of production quotas to help reduce environmental impact. R513A is widely viewed as the optimum replacement.
Importantly, R513a is an A1 safety group refrigerant and is neither toxic nor combustible. Unlike flammable refrigerants, R513a is subject to less stringent regulations in handling, maintenance intervals and compulsory leak tests, thus saving time and money. Switching to R513a builds on the sustainable credentials of the Tundra range, which is already renowned for its optimised energy efficiency via capabilities such as minimal pressure drop and lower absorbed power. Reduced energy consumption is vital in today’s ultra-competitive marketplace, which is why Hi-line has worked hard to offer customers a dryer solution that drives down energy costs.
Constant low dewpoint
The company’s integrated Direct Expansion technology delivers a constant +3°C dewpoint, unlike a chilled mass dryer, which can be as high as +10°C during its thermal cycle. Furthermore, the single-cell, all-aluminium heat exchanger module provides highly efficient heat transfer at low energy cost, while a further notable energy-saving attribute is the variable-speed fan, which only consumes the energy necessary to meet essential operational needs.
A robust, high-quality build standard is another attribute of these class-leading dryers. For instance, by controlling the fan speed on the refrigerant circuit there is no need for fan-pressure switches, which can often become defective in dryers of this type. The fewer moving parts, the more reliable the product, making it ideal for applications that include workshop air and machine air in general manufacturing, as well as further uses in sectors that include packaging, textile, food, beverage, medical, dairy and automotive.
