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Deliquescent
Deliquescent is defined as a substance that absorbs moisture from the surrounding air until it dissolves into a liquid solution. This process, known as deliquescence, occurs when a material’s affinity for water vapor is so strong that it takes in enough humidity to liquefy itself.
In industrial applications, deliquescent materials are commonly used in drying systems, including those designed for compressed air. In these systems, deliquescent desiccants help remove moisture that can cause corrosion and equipment damage.
Deliquescent dryers use hygroscopic materials (those that attract moisture) to dry compressed air before it reaches end-use equipment. As humid air passes through the dryer, the deliquescent material absorbs water vapor and gradually dissolves into a liquid brine, which is drained away.
This simple, chemical-based drying process requires no electricity or moving parts, making it an efficient solution for remote or rugged environments. Many Quincy Compressor customers in agriculture, food processing and light manufacturing rely on deliquescent dryers to maintain consistent air quality where power reliability or maintenance access is limited.
FAQs
The terms hygroscopic and deliquescent both describe materials that attract moisture. Hygroscopic materials, such as silica gel or activated alumina, absorb moisture from the air but remain solid. Deliquescent materials, by contrast, continue absorbing moisture until they dissolve into a liquid solution.
Excess moisture in a compressed air line can lead to serious issues, including:
- Rust and corrosion in piping and tools.
- Compromised pneumatic performance.
- Contamination of end products in food or pharmaceutical facilities.
- Frozen lines in cold climates.
A deliquescent dryer helps mitigate these risks by capturing moisture before it reaches sensitive components.
Some of the most frequently used deliquescent materials in industrial drying include:
- Sodium chloride (salt)
- Calcium chloride
- Lithium chloride
- Potassium hydroxide
These materials are selected for their strong moisture-absorbing properties and predictable performance under varying humidity levels.
Industries such as oil and gas, automotive, agriculture and food processing often use deliquescent dryers where consistent compressed air quality is essential but electrical power or maintenance availability is limited.
They can be paired with many Quincy Compressor models, including reciprocating and rotary screw systems. Your local authorized Quincy air expert can recommend the right dryer type for your system’s flow rate, pressure and operating environment.
Yes. Over time, the deliquescent agent dissolves as it absorbs moisture. Regular monitoring and replenishment help maintain optimal drying performance and protect the integrity of your compressed air system.
Quincy Compressor helps industries worldwide achieve cleaner, drier and more reliable compressed air, and we can do the same for your business if you need a high-quality drying solution for your application. To find the right solution for your air system, contact your local Quincy authorized partner for professional support, durable equipment and genuine replacement materials.