The role of the air compressor is to power the machinery and equipment used in an industry . This tool works according to a fairly simple principle: through several devices, it compresses air which will then be use to supply other devices. The system of this pneumatic tool is operated by a mechanical motor . However, some compressor models are equipped with a diesel, electric or gasoline engine.
The industrial air compressor is an equipment which is widely use in the industrial sector. It is often found in the field of painting, printing, pneumatics, catering, etc.
There are several models and brands of Industrial Air Compressors on the market. Nevertheless, it should be noted that this tool is available in two main forms: mobile and fixed form. Thus, you have the choice between mobile and stationary compressors , compact, light and silent oil-free compressors, lubricated compressors, monobloc, vertical, horizontal … to equip your plant.
In order to select the right pneumatic tool for your business, there are a few points to consider. But, first of all, you need to define your needs and the machines that will be power by the equipment. After this step, you can proceed to the purchase of your compressor.
Types of industrial air compressors
There are two types of industrial air compressors on the market: positive displacement and centrifugal models . The majority of tools offer by manufacturers are volumetric. In other words, they are devices whose mechanism reduces the volume of air to compress it. These models are usually equipped with electric motors and different technologies.
The piston air compressor
These industrial air compressors can be single-cylinder and go up to 10 bars of pressure. Nevertheless, you can find multi-stage models which allow to have a pressure in stages which can reach up to 400 bars. Economical, these devices are ideal for intermittent use , as they can only run for 35 minutes per hour.
The main drawback of this type of compressor is that it rejects compress air with oil . As a result, if you need clean air, you’ll have to look to oil-less models or install a filtration device instead. Also, reciprocating compressors generate a lot of noise , which can be quite annoying for workers and people nearby.
The screw compressor
This is the most widely use model in factories . It works thanks to the helical screws instead of the piston. The pressure supplied by this equipment generally varies from 5 bars for a single-stage model to 13 bars for a device with several stages. A screw compressor can be operate continuously, as it has a 100% duty cycle.
The vane compressor
Here the vanes designate plates which slide in an eccentric rotor, which compresses the air. The energy efficiency offer by these compressors is generally interesting, as they are very compact tools compare to other models.
At the same pressure and flow rate, these devices have a lower speed of rotation than that of the screw models. This has the advantage of limiting the wear of parts and reducing maintenance requirements. Thus, the device gains in longevity .
Centrifugal compressors
This is the second type of industrial air compressors. With these equipments, air is suck through the tool during the rotation of a paddle wheel. They work on the same principle as turbochargers in the automotive sector .
These devices are generally use to obtain a flow of air as well as a greater pressure, in a continuous manner. This is the reason why we are talking about the model use in industrial chemical and energy companies .
In addition, these compressors are often equip with a reduction gear in order to facilitate optimum engine operation. In fact, they can offer a flow rate of 500,000 m3 / h for a pressure of 200 bars.
What are the other elements to consider when choosing an industrial air compressor?
To properly select an air compressor, you will need to determine the frequency of use according to the compress air needs of your machines. Next, you should also consider the duration of continuous use of your tool. If you need equipment that runs continuously, then obviously you won’t choose a model with a duty cycle of 50% or 60% for example.
Next, you will need to determine the recommend size for your compressor. In this case, it is essential to first know the maximum pressure you need to supply your equipment. Depending on this indicator, you may need a single-stage model or a multistage compressor .
It will also be necessary to determine the maximum flow rate which you need, that is to say the quantity of air necessary to supply the machines to be connect to the compressor. When making your purchase, it is preferable to allow for a margin of around 30% compare to the needs that you have define in order to avoid unpleasant surprises.
The compressor power is also an important factor to buy the best industrial air compressor. However, it depends on the pressure and flow you need. If you opt for a model with a large power, but a low flow, know that it will be more suitable for occasional use and that its cooling will require long pauses.
Finally, it will also take into account the price of the compressor . Depending on the type of equipment chosen,
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