FTS Bubbler - Desiccator Installation and Function

700-Bubbler-Man Rev 12 13 Feb 2020
Page 8/51
2.5 DESICCATOR
An external desiccator must be connected to prevent the accumulation of moisture in the
compressor manifold and throughout the system. Moist air drawn into the Bubbler will degrade the
measurement accuracy and damage the compressor and manifold. Desiccant air dryers and
mounting brackets are available from FTS (see Appendix D for part numbers) and
mounting/maintenance details are found in Sections 2.5.1 and 2.5.2 respectively. For other
desiccators, follow the manufacturer’s directions with respect to handling, mounting, maintenance,
and disposal of the desiccator and desiccant.
The desiccator should be mounted close to the Bubbler to minimize the length of the output hose.
Ensure there are no kinks or bends in the output hose.
A barbed hose fitting for the desiccant hose is shipped with the Bubbler and must be attached to the
Bubbler’s air intake fitting (see Figure 2-1). Wrap Teflon tape around the Bubbler’s air intake fitting,
and then screw on the barbed hose fitting finger tight. While holding the Bubbler’s air intake fitting
steady with the 11/16 wrench, use the 5/8 wrench to tighten the barbed hose fitting (about 2 turns).
Do not turn or apply torque to the Bubbler’s air intake fitting.
IMPORTANT! Applying torque to the Bubbler’s air intake fitting can displace the O-ring
resulting in the possibility of moisture entering the manifold.
2.5.1 DESICCANT HANDLING SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
The desiccant supplied with the FTS supplied air dryer is blue silica gel. When handling observe the
following recommended safety precautions:
CAUTION:
• Inhalation may irritate the respiratory tract.
• Avoid breathing of the dust or prolonged contact with the skin.
• Use adequate ventilation.
HANDLING
• Wear gloves.
• Wear a NIOSH/MSHA approved dust mask.
• Wear long sleeved clothing.
• If transferring material into flammable solvents, use proper grounding to
avoid static electrical sparks.
FIRST AID
•
If material gets into the eyes, hold eyelids apart and flush with water for a
least 15 minutes.
• If material gets onto the skin, wash with soap and water.
• If inhaled remove to fresh air and seek medical attention for any difficulty
breathing.
• If swallowed, administer plenty of water and seek medical attention.
REGENERATION • It is NOT recommended to regenerate/reheat BLUE SILICA GEL
DISPOSAL
• Comply with local regulations for disposal.
• Store in an airtight, moisture-proof container in a cool dry place until disposal.