An RCD Passive Dehydrator, such as the RCD-1, contains a drying agent sealed in a pressure tight container. A 1/8" NPT pressure fitting is provided for connecting it to the system to be protected. Gas diffusion insures that the desiccant is exposed to any water vapor present in the system. Unlike mechanically pressurized systems, an RCD passive dehydrator works best when the waveguide or coax system is tightly sealed.

Containing just one moving part, an RCD Self-Pumping™ Passive Dehydrator, such as the RCD-2, uses variations in ambient temperature and barometric pressure to pressurize the waveguide or coaxial cable. When the pressure inside the waveguide is less than atmospheric, a sensitive check-valve in bottom of the bottle opens. This allows ambient air to enter the Waveguide or coax after it has passed through and been dried by the desiccant. When the internal pressure exceeds atmospheric pressure, the check-valve closes, thus holding the system at a positive pressure.

This feature improves performance in two ways. First, it increases drying DESCRIPTION efficiency by keeping the system at a positive pressure: generally, dry air leaking out rather than moist air leaking in. Second, this feature insures controlled dry air circulation in the waveguide or coaxial cable. When compared to a passive dehydrator that relies upon gas diffusion, such as the RCD-1, the RCD-2 Self-Pumping Passive Dehydrator’s circulation dramatically improves response to environmental changes.

Depending upon the system volume and tightness, as well as the environmental conditions at the site, the desiccant lasts 12 to 18 months, or longer, before requiring regeneration or replacement. Conditions such as a leaky system and damp climate may reduce desiccant longevity.