American Dryer Corp. AD-200 Clothes Dryer User Manual


 
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2. Steam Damper Actuator System
The steam damper actuator system consists of a hinged damper plate, pneumatic piston, and a 24 volt
solenoid valve with a needle valve to control the speed of the piston actuation.
On a call for heat, a 24 volt signal is applied to the 3-way/2-position solenoid valve. This signal switches the
valve so that compressed air is sent to the piston. The piston rod extends, pushing the hinged steam damper
plate to the open position. This allows room air to be drawn through the hot steam coil and then through the
basket (tumbler).
When the temperature set point has been reached, the 24 volt signal is removed from the solenoid valve, so
that the solenoid valve blocks the air supply to the piston, and air in the piston is bled to the atmosphere. The
spring in the piston now retracts the piston rod, closing the steam damper. The steam damper plate now
covers the steam coil and allows room air to bypass the coil before entering the basket (tumbler) for a rapid
cool down.
The steam damper plate should open and close slowly and smoothly. The speed can be modulated by
adjusting the needle valve knob. Turning the knob clockwise (CW) restricts the compressed air flow and
slows the steam damper movement. Counterclockwise (CCW) adjustment speeds up the steam damper
motion. Upon completion of the adjustment, tighten the needle valve's locking nut.