An Overview of Air Compressor

Air Compressor

Air Compressor plays a vital role in different types of application like commercial, industrial and residential by converting mechanical energy into compressed air. This compressed air is flexible and can be used to pneumatic power tools, inflate Tyre and support number of manufacturing processes. There are various types of air compressor each with its own mechanism for air compressing.

Types of Air Compressor

The two primary types of air compressors one is reciprocating compressor, and another one is rotary compressor.

1. Reciprocating Air Compressor

These types of compressors take a use of piston cylinder arrange to an internal combustion chamber. These piston moves up and down inside a cylinder, it draws in air during the downward stroke and compressing it during the upward stroke. In this one-way valve is used to control the flow of air in and out of the cylinder.

2. Rotary Air Compressor

Rotary Compressor is used to operates on the principle of continuous, smooth rotation to compress air. It includes rotary screw compressor, which use two interlocking screw, rotary vane compressor, where vane mounted on a rotor compress air against the wall of a chamber.

Working Principle for Air Compressors

The fundamental working principle includes drawing in atmospheric air, compressing it, then stores the compressed air for later use. Here is step-by-step breakdown process:

Air Intake: The compressor begins by drawing in atmospheric air by using an intake valve. To ensure the long life of compressor, the air is also passed by using air filter to remove impurities like contaminants and dust.

Compression: In reciprocating compressor, the piston moves downward during the intake stoke, creates a vacuum that pulls air into the cylinder. As a piston climb during the compression stroke, the intake valve closes and then the air is compressed. In rotary compressor, the continuous rotating of vanes or screw achieves the compression.

Pressure Regulation: In these a pressure switch monitors the air pressure inside the compressor. When the pressure reached to its present level, the switch turns off the motor automatically to prevents over pressurization.

Storage in Tank: In compressor, the storage tank is used to store compressed air. The tank serves as reservoir and ensure a constant and reliable supply of compressed air is available whenever it is necessary.

Pressure relief valve: The pressure relief valve is used to safeguard against excessive pressure buildup, pressure relief valve is installed. If the pressure in the tank increases a safe limit, the valve is open a release an excess pressure and avoid damages.

Cooling: When the air is generated, the compressor gets heated due to this heat the cooling equipment is installed to cool the system.

Outlet Valve: The compress air is finally delivered to the desired output by using the outlet valve. This valve is equipped with a regulator to allow user to control the pressure of outgoing air based on the requirements of the specific application.

Drainage of Condensation: In this case, moisture can gather in the tank due to the compression pressure. To maintain air quality and avoid corrosion a use of drain valve is employed to periodically release this condensation.

Advantages of Air Compressor

• As compared to another power sources, air compressors can be high energy-efficient, basically in continuous-use applications.
• Air compressors can provide high power outputs for heavy-duty applications. They can give subsequently pressure for tasks such as inflating large tires or powering industrial machine.
• Basically, air compressors need less maintenance as compared to other power sources. With proper care and maintenance, they can have long life.

Disadvantages of Air Compressor

• Air compressors can have a high cost, basically for large industrial scale or those with advanced features such as variable speed drives or oil-free operation.
• Air compressors can make noise during operation, basically large models or those running continuously. This can be a significant disadvantage in noise-sensitive environments such as residential areas or indoor workshops.
• Some air compressors, usually larger models, needs significant space for installation. This can be a restriction in constricted or congested workspaces.

Application of Air Compressor

Pneumatic Tools: The air compressor power is a wide range of pneumatic tools like drilling, grinding, nail guns and impact winches.

Industrial Process: The compress air is integral to numerous manufacturing processes includes assemble lines, packaging and automation.

Home Use: Portable air compressor is utilized for task such as inflating tyre, powering airbrush, DIY project etc.

Medical Application: In medical applications compressed air is used in various applications.

Best Air Compressor List

1. Atlas Copco: For Industrial Use.
2. California Air Tools: Portable and easy to use at home.
3. DeWalt: Oil free air compressor.
4. Bauer Compressors: Used for High Pressure.
5. Quincy Compressor: Known for their rotary screw compressors

Also read: 1.1 A Comprehensive Overview of Smoke Detectors

Conclusion

In this article, we have learned about Air Compressor types, working and application. An air compressor is works by drawing in air and compressing it to increase pressure.

FAQ for Air Compressor