Businesses everywhere are looking at every means possible to increase their productivity while at the same time lower their operational costs. Having a functional compressed air system may be what is needed to smoothen the daily operations and increase efficiency. However, without a careful analysis of the demand needs and the specific use of the compressed air supply in your facility, it may end up becoming the source of continual drain on your budget. By knowing how energy efficient air compressors work, you can control the production of compressed air and spread its use over a large area.
The use of compressed air as a power source has grown tremendously with it being a safer and environmentally friendly option. It has become a significant source of power for both big and small tasks. An air compressor is what is used to get compressed air. An air compressor is not only useful to a contractor but also a heavy duty mechanic, automotive technician or even a serious hobbyist.
An air compressor is a mechanical device that is used to trap air from the atmosphere, force it into a small enclosed space increasing its pressure and then transfer the high-pressure air to a receiving tank. The stored pressurized air is then used to power various tools and machinery. It can be powered by mechanical means, diesel engine, electric engine or a petroleum engine. An air compressor has numerous applications in various fields including chemical manufacturing, automation and assembly, construction, agriculture, and many others.
With the various types of compressors in the market, how do you choose the right compressor? All air compressors differ in the air capacity, level of pressure they can deliver and the method of operation. The right compressor should be able to hold just enough air to provide pressure that is enough for the task needed. The performance of the air compressor should also balance against the cost and durability. Based on the method of operation, there are three significant industrial air compressors. They include rotary screw compressors, reciprocating compressors, and centrifugal compressors.
Rotary Screw Compressors
They work by positive displacement. Two helical crews are meshed together to force air through and compress it. The method is smoother that by using pistons as there are fewer vibrations and surges often felt in reciprocation compressors. Mostly found at construction sites, hospitals, and factories.
Reciprocating Compressors
They function by positive displacement of air. They contain pumps that are driven by a piston with the cylinder compressing and displacing the air. There are two types, a direct drive rotary compressor, and a belt drive compressor. These compressors are available in a single stage and multi-stage. They are often used by tradespeople in construction and similar fields.
Centrifugal Compressors
These compressors function through dynamic displacement where a rotating disk continuously transfers pressurized air. It is possible to control the capacity and air flow through the inlet guide vanes. Due to the production of very high pressure, these compressors are useful in operating heavy pieces of machinery such as turbochargers, pneumatic drills, as well as air conditioning and refrigeration.
