Here’s A Guide To How Air Compressors Work
Pressurized, compressed air is required across industries like manufacturing, automobile, construction, power plants and much more. There are many types of compressor systems and variations of models within each type for meeting the different power and air quality demands of pneumatic tools, processes and applications.
Positive displacement air compressors are the most commonly used. They come in two types, reciprocating piston compressors and rotary screw compressors.
Let’s see how they work!
Reciprocating Piston Air Compressors
These compressors constitute a crankshaft, connecting rod, cylinder, piston and valve head.
There is an inlet and a discharge valve at the top of the cylinder on opposite sides.
The back-and-forth movements of the piston create a vacuum. When the piston pulls back, outside air is drawn inside the cylinder through the inlet valve. When the piston extends, the same air is compressed and released through the discharge valve into an air tank. These are known as single-stage compressors.
Two-stage compressors have two cylinders instead of one. At the first stage, the air is compressed to an intermediate pressure. After the temperature is brought down, the air is sent to the second cylinder where it is then pressurized to a specified value.
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Rotary Screw Air Compressors
Rotary screw compressors can deliver a larger air pressure and flow which is necessary for high-power industrial operations and more complex pneumatic tools. They do not have any pistons or crankshafts; instead they have two mated helical screws inside a chamber. As the screws rotate, they draw in air, compress and release it. Since the fast rotational rates can generate friction and heat, lubricating oil is used to keep operations running smoothly and plug in any leaks. The oil is filtered before the compressed air is collected.
Type Of Lubrication
· Oil-Injected
Lubricating oil helps reduce friction and heat. These compressors are generally more durable and useful in heavy-duty operations.
· Oil-Free
Oil-free compressors have permanently oiled bearings. They require minimal maintenance and can function in low temperatures. They have a tendency to heat up, and hence should be used for less-intensity operations or only those that require 100% clean air.
Deciding The Right Air Compressor
Looking for the right air compressor system to power your industry? It’s essential to gauge the machine’s cfm and psi ratings. With decades of experience, Chicago Pneumatic offers a product portfolio of reliable, robust and energy-efficient rotary screw air compressors and 100% oil-free piston air compressors.
