Heat-of-Compression Air Dryer Patented In 1974
Sahara Air Products Patented Technology
Nearly 60 Years Ago A Revolutionary Idea Was Born
In development for nearly 10 years, Joe Henderson and Terry Henderson developed one of the most significant equipment designs for drying compressed air. The first to develop a heat-of-compression regenerative air dryer, Sahara Air Products patented the heat-of-compression air dryer technology in 1974.
“With thousands of installations all over the world, Sahara Air Products customers are drying over 40 billion cubic feet every day, for free“, states Chuck Henderson, Vice President of Henderson Engineering Co., Inc. “This energy-free drying has been helping energy efficient companies save money for nearly five decades.”
The heat-of-compression design requires no CFC’s, does not pollute, and cuts operating costs to near zero by using the heat-of-compression for regeneration. It’s regenerated with “free” heat by using the hot air at the discharge of the final stage of an oil-free compressor to regenerate the desiccant (which is normally wasted). An important energy-saving feature of the design is the repositioned aftercooler. In order to use the heat-of-compression, the hot air goes directly into the regenerating tower, then to the aftercooler and drying tower.
In recognition of being one of the most practical and widely applicable new developments, the patented design won two design awards for outstanding achievement in energy conservation and as a major contribution toward more efficient and effective operation in specific industries.
Referred to as the “Sahara-Pak”, Sahara Air Products went on to develop two types of heat-of-compression air dryer models to allow customers to choose the air dryer which best fits their needs. The result of years of product development, the Sahara-Pak Model SP is the simplest design and has the lowest initial cost. The Sahara-Pak Model HC is a true process dryer and, given the proper operating conditions, it can deliver extremely low dew points with virtually no operating cost.
To learn more about the features, components, and options of both the SP and the HC models, view the Heat-of-Compression brochure:
Need a solution specific to your unique application?
Our Sales Engineers can help you select the right system for your application. They have the expertise to review your plant air system and design the optimum engineered solution. We can custom build an air dryer to meet your strict performance requirements. Call 815-786-9471 to speak with one of our Sales Engineers or request an air dryer quote.
