Michael Stokes Cranford

US Patent:

56328028, May 27, 1997

Filed:

Mar 3, 1995

Appl. No.:

8/398646

Inventors:

George R. Grgich - Raleigh NC
Michael S. Cranford - Wake Forest NC
John C. Patton - Charlotte NC

International Classification:

B01D 5304

US Classification:

95 10

Abstract:

An improved method and apparatus for removing moisture from compressed air through a pre-compression adsorptive desiccant bed, heat reactivated and regenerative air drying and filtration system. This system consists of an air filter affixed to a blower and in communication with a heater connected and communicating with a conduit communicating with a first valve and a second valve. The first and second valve are each connected to another conduit which is connected to a desiccant bed adsorption unit and another valve and conduit which is in communication with an air compression machine. Each desiccant bed is preferably of tubular configuration.

US Patent:

58074228, Sep 15, 1998

Filed:

Apr 8, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/826931

Inventors:

George R. Grgich - Raleigh NC
Michael S. Cranford - Wake Forest NC
John C. Patton - Charlotte NC

International Classification:

B01D 5326

US Classification:

95 10

Abstract:

A pre-compression dehydration system optimizes the gas flow parameters which are essential to the performance of a radial or spherical desiccant dryer. When used in conjunction with a low pressure dryer, the system protects the desiccant bed from channeling, which can cause the gas to flow unevenly through the desiccant bed and fail to make effective contact with the desiccant. The system provides a multiple zone, or divided, desiccant bed adsorption unit to maintain a proper flow distribution as required by the demand of the air compressor and to eliminate the potential for channeling. The system may also include a controller for automatically opening and closing the port access doors of the adsorption unit to control the amount of desiccant utilized to dry the air. A thermostatically controlled precooler may be provided for cooling the ambient air prior to adsorption to insure that the temperature of the effluent air will not exceed 100. degree. F. (37. 8. degree. C. ) as a result of the heat energy produced during the adsorption process.