Refrigerated Air Dryers
Refrigerated air dryers are the workhorse choice for treating plant compressed air. They cool the incoming air in a heat exchanger so water vapor condenses into liquid, remove it through an auto drain, then reheat the air before it leaves the dryer. The result is reliable, continuous moisture removal at a pressure dew point down to roughly 37°F (3°C), dry enough for the large majority of industrial pneumatic applications. Automation Distribution is an authorized SMC distributor stocking the current SMC refrigerated air dryer range, led by the new energy-saving IDFB60/70/80/90 series for North America.
Buying or replacing an SMC refrigerated dryer? Read this first.
SMC has moved its refrigerated air dryers to a new energy-saving generation: IDFB60/70/80/90 (UL, for North America) and IDF60/70/80/90 (worldwide). These units add a digital scroll compressor and a second re-heater, cut power consumption by up to 76% versus the previous design, tolerate higher ambient and inlet temperatures, and increase air flow capacity.
The earlier IDFB□E, IDF□E and IDFA□E dryers and the IDU high-inlet line are the legacy generation SMC is phasing out. If you are cross-referencing a discontinued part number, see the replacement guide below the product listing.
Which SMC refrigerated dryer do I need?
Match the series to where the dryer will be installed and the conditions it will see. For most United States installations, start with the IDFB60/70/80/90 series.
Most US plants: IDFB60/70/80/90 Series (current, UL listed)
The go-to choice for new installations and replacements in North America. IDFB60/70/80/90 refrigerated air dryers are cUL listed, run on 60 Hz power, and are built for demanding plant environments: ambient temperature up to 113°F (45°C) and inlet air temperature up to 149°F (65°C). The energy-saving design lowers power consumption by up to 76% versus the previous IDFB□E generation while increasing air flow capacity. This series supersedes the legacy IDFB□E dryers.
Constant, controlled outlet temperature: IDH Series
A compact air dryer with outlet air temperature adjustment that integrates a heater, regulator, dryer, and filter. The IDH air dryer delivers a constant volume of compressed air at a controlled temperature, dew point, pressure, and cleanliness regardless of seasonal or ambient conditions, which makes it ideal for air bearings and other applications that need constant, temperature-controlled dry air. Its front and top ventilation lets it sit close to a wall or panel.
Worldwide or non-certified regions: IDF60/70/80/90 Series
The same new energy-saving generation for 50 or 60 Hz operation worldwide where specific regional certifications are not required. IDF60/70/80/90 dryers supersede the legacy IDF□E series and cover SMC's larger-capacity units.
Very high inlet air, no aftercooler: IDU Series (legacy, being phased out)
The IDU high inlet air temperature dryer handles inlet air up to 176°F (80°C) with an integral aftercooler and stainless steel heat exchanger, which suited it to reciprocating compressors and systems without a separate aftercooler. IDU is part of the legacy generation SMC is discontinuing. For inlet air up to 149°F (65°C), the IDFB60/70/80/90 or IDF60/70/80/90 series is the current replacement. If your inlet air runs hotter than that, contact our team before ordering so we can confirm the right solution.
Europe / CE-marked regions: IDFA60/70/80/90 Series
CE marked dryers for Europe and other regions requiring the CE mark, replacing the legacy IDFA□E series. These are typically specified for installations outside North America.