No.
412822
Service Manual Rev. B
AUTOMATIC PRESSURIZATION
DEHYDRATOR
All APD-C Series
Section CONTENTS Page
1 Description 2
Characteristics 3
2 Installation 4
Principles of 5
3 Operation
Adjustments &
4 6
Maintenance
5 Troubleshooting 6
Electrical Schematic
6 7
Diagram
Pneumatic Schematic
7
Diagram
7 Illustrations 8
8 Spare Parts List 9
Radio Frequency Systems
200 Pondview Drive
Meriden, CT 06450
Ph (203) 630-3311
Fax (203) 634-2272
www.rfsworld.com
SECTION 1. DESCRIPTION
The APD20-C and APD70-C Series Automatic When used within a 60Hz circuit the APD70-C and
Pressurization Dehydrators are designed for reliable APD72-C models are designed for operation in larger
pressurization of elliptical waveguide, coaxial cable and systems with up to 1700 feet of 6-inch diameter
rigid line systems. The dehydrators utilize a dual transmission line. The dehydrator is rated at 0.7 SCFM
canister, self-reactivating, heatless fractionator process, (0.32 liter/sec) and -40°F (-40°C) dry air dew point
using high efficiency aluminum-silicate molecular sieve output at 95°F (35°C) 95% relative humidity input.
absorbent. The drying system is completely automatic,
with no need for replacement or manual reactivation of When used within a 50Hz circuit the APD72-C model is
any absorption material. These units are capable of rated at 0.58 SCFM (0.27 liter/sec) and -40°F (-40°C)
years of trouble-free service when properly installed, dry air dew point output at 95°F (35°C) 95% relative
operated and maintained. The APD dehydrators are humidity input. The APD72-C has a capacity reduction
capable of efficient operation up to 5000 ft in elevation. of 17 percent relative to use in a 60Hz circuit.
For service of higher elevation, contact RFS for Output pressure is factory set to 3 psig (20.7 kPa) "ON"
information. and 5 psig (34.5 kPa) ''OFF". Dehydrator output may be
The APD20-C 60 Hz model is rated at 0.2 SCFM (0.09 re-adjusted in the field to operate anywhere between 1
liter/sec) and -40°F (-40°C) dry air dew point output at and 10 psig (6.9 -69 kPa). Check valves prevent loss of
95°F (35°C) 95% relative humidity input. The APD20-C pressure back through the dehydrator and moisture
dehydrator will maintain up to 20000 feet of 3-1/2-inch ingress during system idle. A passive low-pressure
diameter transmission line. alarm switch, factory set for 1 psig (6.9 kPa) is included
for remote monitoring. A mechanical safety valve to
The APD22-C 50 Hz model is rated at 0.14 SCFM (0.08 protect the customer system from overpressure is also
liter/sec) and -40°F (-40°C) dry air dew point output at included.
95°F (35°C) 95% relative humidity input. The APD22-C
has a capacity reduction of 17 percent relative to the 60 Standard features include a circuit breaker switch, 0-15
Hz model. psig pressure gauge, and a visual moisture indicator,
which turns dark blue when dry and pink when wet. The
Both APD20-C and APD22-C dehydrator are available dehydrators may be shelf mounted or flush mounted in a
in the normal output pressure range (1.5-10 psig) and standard EIA19" relay rack. The APD70-C Series
special low output pressure range option (1-4 psig). includes a vented rear cover as standard equipment.
Both the APD20-C series and the APD70-C series are
IP20 rated. Spare parts are available in section 8.
1. Pressure Gauge (0-15 psi)
2. Moisture Indicator
3. Circuit Breaker (CB)
4. CB Indicator Light
5. Line Voltage Indicator Light
6. Output Pressure Setting
Figure 1.1 Front view of APD series dehydrator
Page 2 of 11
APD20-C Series APD70-C Series
Characteristics Characteristics
Power Source Power Source
APD20-C, P/N 920635-C 115 VAC, 50/60Hz APD70-C, P/N 940019-C 115 VAC, 0/60Hz
APD22-C, P/N 920637-C 230 VAC, 50/60Hz APD72-C, P/N 940020-C 230 VAC, 0/60Hz
Output Ratings Output Ratings 60
60 Hz 0.2 SCFM (0.09 liter/ sec) Hz 0.7 SCFM (0.32 liter/sec)
50 Hz 0.14 SCFM (0.08 liter/sec) 50 Hz 0.58 SCFM (0.27 liter/sec)
Output Dew Point -40°F (-40°C) Output Dew Point -40°F (-40°C)
Ambient Inlet Temp. 33oF-120°F (loC-49°C) Ambient Inlet Temp. 33oF-120°F (loC-49°C)
Ambient Humidity 95% Maximum Ambient Humidity 95% Maximum
Output Pressure for common Version Output Pressure for common Version
Factory Set (on - off) 3-5 psig (20.7 - 34.5 kPa) Factory Set (on - off) 3-5 psig (20.7/34.5 kPa)
Field Adjustable range 1.5-10 psig (10 - 69 kPa) Field Adjustable range 1-10 psig (6.9 - 69 kPa)
Differential 2 psig (13.8 kPa) typical Differential 2 psig (13.8 kPa) typical
Compressor Ratings ¼ hp Compressor Ratings ¼ hp
Power Consumption Power Consumption
Pumping 350 watts Pumping 600 watts
Idle 10 watts Idle 10 watts
Low Pressure Alarm 1 psig (6.9 kPa) Low Pressure Alarm 1 psig (6.9 kPa)
High Pressure Alarm 5 psig (34.5 kPa)
Output Fitting 1/8 NPT x 3/8" OD tubing
Output Fitting 1/8 NPT x 3/8" OD tubing
Dimensions (in) 12 x 15x 8
Dimensions (in) 12 x 15x 8 HxWxD (mm) 297 x 382 x 203
HxWxD (mm) 297 x 382 x 203
Net Weight 37 lbs (16.8 kg)
Net Weight 30 lbs (13.5 kg)
Shipping Weight 44 lbs (20 kg)
Shipping Weight 35 lbs (15.9 kg)
Standard Items Supplied:
Standard Items Supplied: 20 ft of 3/8" plastic tubing, Swivel Elbow
20 ft of 3/8" plastic tubing, Swivel Elbow
APD70-C
APD20-C MAXIMUM DEHYDRATOR CAPACITY RATINGS
MAXIMUM DEHYDRATOR CAPACITY RATINGS Base on 2 psi leakage in 24 hrs and 5% running time
Base on 2 psi leakage in 24 hrs and 5% running time Approximate Length
Approximate Length Transmission Line feet meter
Transmission Line feet meter 7/8" 73,000 22200
7/8" 21,000 6400 1-5/8 " 24,000 7300
1-5/8 " 7,000 2100 3-1/8" 7,300 2200
3-1/8" 2,100 600 6-1/8" 1,700 500
6-1/8" 500 150 6 to 12 GHz waveguide 28,000 8500
6 to 12 GHz waveguide 8,000 2400 4 to 5 GHz waveguide 14,000 4300
4 to 5 GHz waveguide 4,000 1200
1
) Factory Installed Only Optional Accessories for All APD series
P/N 916814-010 High Pressure Alarm 1
P/N 920717-001 Press. & Humidity Monitor (115 V)
1
P/N 920717-003 Press. & Humidity Monitor (230 V)
CAUTION! Remove power before servicing
Page 3 of 11
SECTION 2. INSTALLATION
2.1 Incoming Inspection Leaky system can cause excessive running and
This instrument was inspected and tested reduced compressor life.
mechanically, electrically, and for performance prior to 2.5 Operation 2.5.1
shipment. Before putting it into service, inspect for Purging
possible mechanical damage received in transit. If there
is damage or deficiency, notify the carrier and Radio
Frequency Systems immediately. Shipping damage is
unusual but not totally avoidable. Do not accept
delivery of containers which show shipping damage.
READ THE MANUAL THOROUGHLY, then,
with the manual as a reference, examine the dehydrator.
Inspect for any loose parts, as described in figure 7.1 in
section 7.
2.2 Mounting Figure 2.1: push-on connector connection
The dehydrators may be installed as portable on
The transmission line system should be purged of
its rubber feet. Where the installation requires it, the moisture with dry nitrogen before the dehydrator is
rubber feet may be replaced with shock/vibration placed into service. This will save excessive
isolating mounts. Wall shelves and relay rack mounting dehydrator running time during start up.
bracket kits are available as optional. (See page 3 for
part number.) 2.5.2 Capacity Ratings
The APD series dehydrator requires a firm, The dehydrator should be of sufficient output
level surface with a minimum of 3" clearance on the capacity to accommodate the calculated line volume
back for heat release. The site should not be subject to and anticipated leak rate. A duty run cycle between 1
and 5 percent per day should be maintained for lowest
freezing or extremely high temperature as specified in possible line humidity. A unit too large for the line
the characteristics section. A reasonably clean location volume may not operate long enough to purge the
will enhance the service life of the dehydrator. system of moisture. A dehydrator should run for a
2.3 Electrical minimum of 3 minutes to recover from a line drop of
2 psig. The dehydrator running time (minute per day)
Connect the dehydrator to appropriate power can be calculate as following:
source. Be sure to connect the power cord only to an
[ ]
Air Lost Volume(ft³/day)
electrical outlet that complies with the electrical
specification of the dehydrator. Check the label (figure Run Time = Dehydrator Output (ft³/min)
7.1) for the electrical characteristics. Units powered by
230 VAC, 50/60 Hz will require the addition of an See "Maximum Dehydrator Capacity Ratings" table
electrical plug purchased locally. on page 3 for recommended transmission line length.
All pressure alarm contacts are passive and 2.5.3 Start-Up
Turn the circuit breaker switch ON. Allowing
power must be supplied externally to the alarm devices. the unit to initially operate, exhausting to the
All alarm and monitoring systems are factory installed atmosphere until the visual humidity indicator turns to
only. dark blue color. This insures the proper dry air
2.4 Outlet Pressured Air connection delivery. After this drying period, turn the circuit
breaker switch OFF.
The dehydrator outlet is connected to the
Connect the unit's outlet to the line to be
customer system using the supplied connectors and pressurized using the polyethylene tubing provided
tubing. The connectors are push-on quick-connect type, (see figure 2.1). After making connection, turn the
which have a standard 1/8 NPT thread to a 3/8 OD switch ON. Operation is completely automatic; no
tubing. See figure 2.1 for connection and disconnect. further attention should be required.
Install the fitting to the waveguide system, but do not
connect the dehydrator until after start-up session in 2.5.4 Shut-Down
2.5.3. Make sure a threaded connection being made to Turn the circuit breaker switch OFF.
the dehydrator and the system are made with Teflon 2.5.5 Humidity Indicator
sealing tape to prevent unnecessary air leakage. The humidity indicator provides a visual
means to determine whether the dehydrator is
furnishing dry air to the system. The indicator
Page 4 of 11 contains a substance that changes color from dark
blue when dry to pink when wet.
SECTION 3. PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION 3.4 Check Valves
The Automatic Pressurization Dehydrators consist of An inline check valves isolates low pressure
the following major components: from high pressure within the dehydrator, and also
3.1 Self lubricated compressor prevents loss of system pressure when the dehydrator is
3.2 Time delay relay and solenoid valve at idle.
3.3 Drying chambers (cylinder assembly) Another check valve is located at the solenoid
3.4 Check valves valve exit port called "POP-OFF" valve. This valve will
3.5 Pressure switch only allow wet air to leave the dehydrator, and block
3.6 Humidity indicator moisture ingression during system idle when the
3.7 Low pressure alarm contacts compressor is not running.
3.8 Outlet pressure gauge A third safety relief valve is located just before
3.9 Circuit breaker and light indicators the connection. (See figure 7.2). This valve provides a
3.10 Rear Cover mechanical means of protection against overpressure; in
3.11 Various Markings and Symbols case the pressure switch malfunctions. The safety valve
was set at the factory to 15 psig for standard systems
Ambient air flows through the intake filter into the
and 5 psig for low pressure operation.
compressor. The compressed air then travels to the
cylinder assembly, where moisture is absorbed. A 3.5 Pressure switch
small portion of dry air will be use to flush the The pressure switch monitors the pressure in the
cylinder of moisture, and the rest will go to the external system. When the unit has pumped the system
customer line. up to a preset pressure, the switch automatically shuts
off the pumping operation. When pressure drops to a
3.1 Compressor
lower preset figure, the switch restarts the pump.
The compressor's bearings are pre-lubricated
ball bearings. No additional lubrication is necessary. 3.6 Humidity Indicator
The compressor has an integral safety relief valve to The humidity (moisture) indicator is located on
prevent over-pressure. It also has an internal thermal- the front panel of the dehydrator. The visual moisture
protected circuit breaker, which trips when overheated. indicator is dark blue when dry air is being delivered
and pink when wet.
3.2 Solenoid valve and Timer
The four-way solenoid valve admits 3.7 Low Pressure Alarm
compressed air from the compressor to the drying The low-pressure alarm is a normally close
chambers where moisture is absorbed. A small portion (NC) single pole, single throw (SPST) circuit switch,
of the dry air leaving the active drying chamber is which preset to 1±0.3 psig. The alarm contacts are
directed downward through the idle chamber, purging passive and power must be supplied externally to the
the moisture it had absorbed during its last drying cycle. alarm device.
As the solenoid valve switches the chamber, the air High-pressure (HP) alarms are available as
pressure in the drying chamber flushes the moisture optional. The HP alarms normally open (NO) single
through the exhaust port of the solenoid valve. The pole, single throw (SPST) circuit switch. See page 3 for
flushing and continuous purging will ensure the part number.
chamber is dry before its next drying job. All alarm terminals are located on the lower
Solenoid valve switching cycle is controlled by right back of the dehydrator. (See figure 7.1).
the timer relay (Timer), which alternates the solenoid
3.8 Outlet Pressured Gauge
valve every 45 seconds The switching from drying to
The pressure gauge is located on the front panel
purging is evidenced by a rush of air from the chamber
and has a range of 0-15 psig. The pressure gauge
that is being vented out of the solenoid exhaust. At no
monitors the external pressure, which is the same
time should this vent be restricted.
pressure that the pressure switch (3.5) is operated.
3.3 Drying chamber (cylinder assembly) 3.9 Circuit Breaker (On / Off Switch) and Indicator Light
The dehydrator consists of two cylindrical The circuit breaker is a single pole thermal over-
desiccant chambers, which contain moisture absorption current circuit breaker with press-to-reset, tease-free,
agents to dehydrate the air before sending it to the trip-free, snap action mechanism. The switch shipped in
customer system. At any instance, one chamber will act its OFF position (the white strip exposed); to turn on,
as drying while the other is being purged. In the press the switch once, the breaker switch indicator light
consecutive cycle, the drying becomes the venting and (red) should be lit. Press the switch again to turn off. To
visa versa. The purging operation will flush the trapped reset the switch after it has tripped, press off then press
moisture to the atmosphere through the solenoid valve again to turn it on.
exhaust port.
CAUTION! Remove power before servicing Page 5 of 11
3.10 Rear Cover
The dehydrator should always be operated with the rear cover secured properly in place.
Exceptions to operating the dehydrator without the rear cover in place would be limited to when
the dehydrator is located and operated within a properly ‘locked out’ cabinet or panel.
3.11 Explanation of Markings (Symbols)
Hazardous Voltage: Disconnect power before opening.
Automatic Equipment: Equipment starts automatically.
Maximum Outlet Pressure: Will not exceed 20 PSI.
Read Service Manual: Read Service Manual before opening.
Hot Surface: May exceed 65°C. Allow to cool before servicing.
SECTION 4. ADJUSTMENTS AND SECTION 5. TROUBLESHOOTING
MAINTENANCE
5.1 Failure to Start
4.1 Changing ON/ OFF pressure 5.1.1 Check the power source. The "line voltage indicator"
The unit is delivered factory pre-set as shown in light should be lit if the power source is connector properly.
table on page 3. The output pressure may be field adjusted to Measure and confirm the supply voltage.
settings between 1 and 10 psig (6.4 & 68.9 kPa). Note that 5.1.2 If the breaker indicator light is off when the circuit
the maximum output pressure is limited to the pre-set safety breaker switch is in the ON position, the circuit breaker has
relief valve (3.4). Also, the differential between ON and OFF tripped and must be reset. (See section 3.9).
is not adjustable. 5.1.3 The compressor may be overheated. Let the motor
The pressure setting port is located on the lower cool down for a few minute, then restart the dehydrator. The
right on the front panel. See figure 4.1. To change the output motor overheating may be an indication of excessive run time
pressure setting, turn setting screw using a small flat due to system leak or blockage.
screwdriver clockwise to increase and counterclockwise to 5.1.4 Check internal wiring.
decrease. Typically, an increase of about 5 psi for every 90
degree turn. WARNING: Remove the power before accessing the bottom
box to check for internal wiring.
5.2 Humidity Indicator Shows Pink
5.2.1 Disconnect the polyethylene tubing from the
line and operate the unit discharging the air to
atmosphere until the indicator shows blue.
5.2.2 The compressor filter may be worn.
5.2.3 The desiccant chambers may require service.
5.3 Unit turns ON& OFF rapidly before line is pressurized
5.3.1 Tubing may be kinked and/or blocked.
5.3.2 The line being pressurized is too restrictive
(pneumatic resistance too high). Introduce a surge
volume (pneumatic cushion) between the unit and the
line.
Figure 4.1: Output Pressure Setting
5.4 Unit runs excessively (more than 30%)
4.2 Compressor 5.4.1 Check both the transmission line and the
The compressor inlet filter is located on the interconnecting tubing for leaks. Repair any leak found.
compressor head. This must be kept clean and should be 5.4.2 Check the dehydrator internal system for leakage.
inspected on a regular basis. A monthly schedule is Block the outlet port, then pressurize the system up to
recommended for checking. approximately 9 psi, and then watch the dial gauge. This can
Unscrew the die-cast metal body and remove the felt be done by blocking the outlet port and watching the pressure
pad. Wash the pad thoroughly in solvent; dry completely gauge. Repair any leak found.
before re-installing back into the body. Replace the filter
when the pad is worn. WARNING: Remove the power before accessing the bottom
Never operate the unit without an inlet filter, as this box to check for internal leak or repair.
will allow dust and foreign particles to enter the compressor 5.5 Low System Output Pressure
head, which will reduce the compressor performance and life. 5.5.1 Check pressure at the cylinder assembly. The
Depending on the environment for dehydrator service, we cylinder pressure in drying cycle should be greater than 40
recommend the filter be replaced every two years. psig.
4.3 Dehydrator Maintenance Kit (p/n 920641) 5.5.2 Compressor may be worn out.
The dehydrator service kit contains (2) swivel 5.5.3 Leak at connection from the Compressor to the
elbows (1/8 NPT to 3/8 OD tubing); 20 ft of 3/8 OD plastic cylinder and solenoid valves. Make sure threaded joints are
tubing; 3 ft of ¼ OD plastic tubing; (2) light indicators taped properly.
(amber and red); and a filter for the compressor. 5.5.4 Site ambient pressure is too low. Site altitude may be
Other replacement parts are also available. higher than 5000 ft.
Again anytime threaded connectors are undone
and replaced or rethreaded, new Teflon tape should be used
on the threads.
Page 7 of 11
SECTION 6. SCHEMATIC DIAGRAMS
Figure 6.1: Electrical Schematic Diagram
Figure 6.2: Pneumatic Schematic Diagram
Page 8 of 11
SECTION 7. ILLUSTRATION
Figure 7.1: Back View of APD series
dedrator
1. Label, Dehydrator Info.
2. Compressor Inlet Filter
BREAKER INDICATOR
LIGHT
3. Cylinder Assembly
4. Compressor
5. 3/8 OD Tubing (20 ft)
6. Straight Connector (outlet)
7. Power Input (shown 115V)
8. Alarm Terminal
Note: For 115V, power cord and wall
plug is attached as standard. For
230V, cord with connection IEC plug
is shipped loose. 230V wall plug is
not included.
Figure 7.1 Back view of APD series dehydrator
Figure7.2 is intended for illustration
purpose only - Do not open this bottom
cover unless it is necessary for
replacement of parts.
WARNING: Remove Power before
Opening the Bottom Cover.
1. Time Relay Delay
2. Solenoid Valve
3. Pop-off Valve
4. Pressure Switch
5. Safety Relief Valve
6. Main Terminal with cover
7. Manifold
8. Low Pressure Alarm
9. 40 PSI in-line Check Valve
Figure 7.2 Bottom view of APD series dehydrator with cover removed
Page 9 of 11
SECTION 8. SPARE PARTS LIST
WARNING: Remove the power before access to the bottom box for service.
Item Qt/Unit P/N
Lens O-ring (moisture indicator) 1 520681-023
Felt pad (moisture indicator) 1 913588
Color Change Moisture Ind. Gel 2 oz. 913632
Lens (moisture indicator) 1 914029
Wire Screen (moisture indicator) 1 914030
Coupling Nut (moisture indicator) 1 914057-004
Pressure Switch (for normal pressure) 1 916748
Pressure Gauge 1 913568
Compressor 115V (for APD-20) 1 921333-001
Compressor 230V (for APD-22) 1 921333-002
Compressor 115V (for APD-70/73) 1 921334-001
Compressor 230V (for APD-72) 1 921334-002
Compressor Vibration Isolator 4 913606
Compressor Filter Assembly¹ 1 914714
Solenoid Valve, 115V 1 933843-001
Solenoid Valve, 230V 1 933843-002
Time Delay Relay, 115V 1 913743-001
Time Delay Relay, 230V 1 913743-002
Cylinder Assembly, APD-20 Series 1 933846-001
Cylinder Assembly, APD-70 Series 1 933846-002
Dehydrator Rubber Feet 4 914543
Red Light (breaker indicator light)¹ 1 913654-001
Amber Light (line voltage indicator)¹ 1 913654-002
Circuit Breaker Switch, space terminal¹ 1 916812
3/8" OD Polyethylene Tubing (black)¹ 20 ft 913348-240
3/8" OD Nylon (white) 1 ft 913928-012
Male Elbow, Swivel, 1/8 NPTm to 3/8 tubing¹ 1 916721-005
Male Elbow, Swivel, 1/4 NPTm to 1/4 tubing 2 916721-001
Dehydrator maintenance parts kit 1 920641
Low pressure alarm, (black terminal) 1 916814-001
1) Included in the maintenance parts kit, p/n 920641
CAUTION! Remove power before servicing
Page 10 of 11
WARRANTY
The Seller warrants that, at the time of shipment, the products as a results of the use of the products manufactured by the
manufactured by the Seller are free from defects in material Seller, whether used in accordance with instruction or not.
and workmanship. The Seller's obligation under this warranty
This warranty is in lieu of all others, either expressed or
is limited to replacement or repair of such products within
implied. No representative is authorized to assume for the
one year from the date of shipment.
Seller any other liability in connection with the Seller's
The Seller is in no event liable for consequential damages, products.
installation cost or other costs of any nature
Radio Frequency Systems
200 Pondview Drive
Meriden, CT 06450
Ph (203) 630-3311
Fax (203) 634-2272
www.rfsworld.com
