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Plant Engineering Calculator

Compressed Air Dryer Pressure Drop Cost Calculator — kW & Annual Cost

Estimate extra compressor power and annual electricity cost associated with dryer pressure drop using airflow and a user-entered specific pressure-power factor.

Inputs

Results

Extra compressor power 1.68 kW
Annual extra energy 10080 kWh
Annual pressure-drop cost $1008
Cost per 0.1 bar $336/year

Formula

ΔPwr=Q×Δp×factor/100; cost=ΔPwr×hours×tariff.

Worked example

800 CFM through a 0.3 bar dryer at 0.7 kW per 100 CFM per bar adds about 1.68 kW before annualization.

Assumptions & limits

  • Pressure-power sensitivity depends on compressor/control system; enter a site or OEM factor.
  • Does not model dryer purge or refrigeration power.

FAQs

What does this Compressed Air Dryer Pressure Drop Cost Calculator calculate?

Estimate extra compressor power and annual electricity cost associated with dryer pressure drop using airflow and a user-entered specific pressure-power factor.

Which inputs matter most?

Use measured operating data where possible and keep pressure, temperature, flow, efficiency and tariff inputs on the stated basis. Intermediate outputs make the calculation auditable.

Can I use this for final equipment selection?

Use it for engineering screening and scenario comparison. Confirm final selections against OEM curves, steam/property tables, applicable codes and project design conditions.

Related calculators

compressed air pressure dropcompressed air dryer purge losscompressor specific power

Last updated: 2026-09-17