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Maintaining the Manual Air Dryer
Your Aclarus system comes with two silica air dryers to prevent downtime. The dryer
contains silica gel which absorbs the moisture in the air, permitting maximum ozone
production. For the system to function properly, the gel must be dried periodically,
ensuring maximum moisture absorption. As the gel becomes saturated with moisture, it
turns from orange to a dark green (see below).
The silica gel column before operation.
75% - Replacement required
100% - Replacement Required
When saturation hits 80%, the column must be dried to ensure proper system
functioning. To dry the gel, follow these steps:
1. Replace the saturated column with the alternate column so that the system can
continue functioning while the gel in the saturated column dries.
2. Unscrew the cap at the top of the saturated column.
3. Empty silica gel onto a baker’s sheet and place on the center rack in the oven.
4. Bake at 350F for approximately 15 to 30 minutes or until gel returns to the
original orange color. Stir the gel every five minutes to ensure even drying.
5. Allow the silica gel to cool before re-packing the column.
6. Once the column is re-packed, wrap two strands of Teflon on the threads of the
cap to create an airtight seal, and screw the cap back on.
7. Do NOT use silica if it is overcooked. Silica will turn dark brown or black if
overcooked – call Aclarus for replacement silica.