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Tdb Series Desiccant Breathers

DES-CASE TDB Series Desiccant Breathers: How ZR Gel and 3 µm Filtration Protect Hydraulic Systems

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What Is the DES-CASE TDB Series Breather and How Does It Work?

The DES-CASE TDB Series is a fully serviceable desiccant breather designed to protect hydraulic reservoirs, gearboxes, and fluid systems from particulate contamination and moisture ingress. It combines a glass fiber air filter rated at 3 µm absolute (ß3 ≥ 200) with ZR Gel desiccant (3–6 mm granules) to simultaneously remove particles and water vapor from incoming air. A glass-filled nylon standpipe with a built-in oil mist reducer prevents reservoir oil from reaching the desiccant bed, extending service life.

The series is available in three sizes — 93 (320 cc), 96 (600 cc), and 121 (1040 cc) — covering small hydraulic power units through large mobile and industrial applications. Operating temperature range is -40°F to 194°F (-40°C to 90°C), making the TDB suitable for both arctic mobile equipment and heated industrial environments.

How Much Water Can a DES-CASE TDB Series Breather Adsorb?

Water adsorption capacity scales directly with desiccant volume. The 93 Series holds up to 3 fl. oz (94 ml), the 96 Series up to 5.5 fl. oz (172 ml), and the 121 Series up to 10 fl. oz (300 ml). Desiccant weights are 250 g, 460 g, and 800 g respectively.

Saturation is indicated visually: ZR Gel changes color from red to yellow when exhausted, eliminating guesswork during routine inspections. When the desiccant indicates yellow throughout, the breather requires service — either a desiccant refill or full spare-kit replacement.

What Airflow Rates Does the TDB Series Support?

Airflow capacity depends on both unit size and whether check valves are specified. Without check valves, the 93 and 96 Series handle up to 25 cfm (700 l/min); the 121 Series reaches 53 cfm (1,500 l/min). With check valves (order code suffix V), maximum airflow drops to 11 cfm (300 l/min) for the 93 and 96, and 14 cfm (400 l/min) for the 121. Check valve cracking pressure is 0.05 psi (0.003 bar).

Des-Case notes that sizing should account for humidity level, frequency of airflow, ambient temperature, and chemical compatibility — not airflow rate alone. Large or unusual applications warrant direct consultation with Des-Case technical support.

What Connection Options Are Available for the TDB Series?

The TDB ordering code system allows independent selection of size, drying agent, check valve configuration, and connection type. Connection options for the 93 and 96 Series include:

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