What is Air Compressor? Types of Air Compressors

What is Compressed Air?

Compressed air refers to air that has been compressed and stored under pressure in a container or piping system. Compressed air is a versatile and commonly used power source in many industries and applications.

Applications of Compressed Air

Here are some of the applications of compressed air:

1. Pneumatic tools: Compressed air is often used to power a variety of pneumatic tools, such as drills, grinders, impact wrenches, and sanders.
2. Spray painting: Compressed air is used to atomize paint particles and create a fine spray for painting applications.
3. Industrial processes: Compressed air is used in many industrial processes, such as conveying materials, packaging, and product assembly.
4. HVAC systems: Compressed air is used to power air conditioning and ventilation systems, such as pneumatic actuators and dampers.
5. Food and beverage industry: Compressed air is used in the food and beverage industry for packaging, bottling, and cleaning processes.
6. Medical industry: Compressed air is used in medical equipment and instruments, such as ventilators and dental drills.
7. Automotive industry: Compressed air is used in many automotive applications, such as tire inflation and pneumatic tools for assembly and repair.
8. Mining industry: Compressed air is used in mining operations for powering drills, pneumatic tools, and conveying materials.
9. Aerospace industry: Compressed air is used in the aerospace industry for pneumatic actuation of control surfaces and other systems.
10. Construction industry: Compressed air is used in construction applications, such as powering pneumatic nail guns and other tools.

What is Air Compressor?

An air compressor is a mechanical device that compresses air and stores it in a tank or piping system for use in various applications. There are two main types of air compressors: positive displacement and non-positive displacement/dynamic.

Types of Air Compressors

Fig. 1: Types of Air Compressor

1. Piston compressor: Also known as a reciprocating compressor, this type of compressor uses a piston and cylinder to compress the air. As the piston moves back and forth, it creates a vacuum that draws in air, which is then compressed when the piston moves back towards the cylinder head.
2. Diaphragm compressor: This type of compressor uses a flexible diaphragm to compress the air. As the diaphragm moves back and forth, it creates a vacuum that draws in air, which is then compressed when the diaphragm moves back towards the compressor head.
3. Screw compressor: This type of compressor uses two interlocking rotors to compress the air. As the rotors turn, air is trapped between them and compressed.
4. Lobe compressor: This type of compressor uses two rotating lobes that trap and compress air between them.
5. Vane compressor: This type of compressor uses a rotor with slots in it that hold sliding vanes. As the rotor turns, the vanes slide in and out, trapping and compressing air.