An air compressor is a device that converts power into the potential energy that’s stored in pressurised air. The air is basically pumped into a tank, so the pressure continues to rise. When the pressure reaches its maximum limit, the compressor switches off automatically. The compressed air is then stored in the tank until it is required for use. You may have seen air compressors being used at tire puncture shops. The mechanic will use the air compressor to pump air into your tires.
However, this is just one of the many uses of air compressors. In fact, they can be used for a multitude of different applications. From major manufacturing factories to small gas stations, air compressors come in many different shapes and sizes. Here are some of the most common types of air compressors that you can buy:
Rotary Screw Gas Compressor
Rotary screw compressors are most commonly used in specific industries and manufacturing plants. These screws make use of a rotary type displacement and are generally used instead of piston compressors that require high-pressure air. For instance, there are numerous industrial applications that require lots of compressed air. A rotary compressor can be used for smaller applications as well, such as operating a jackhammer. Unlike piston compressors, the compression process is done in a sweeping motion, which reduces flow surging and minimises pulsation in the compressor.
Piston Compressor
A piston compressor is perhaps the most common type of air compressor in use today. A piston compressor makes use of positive displacement by utilising pistons that are operated by a crankshaft. In turn, this delivers gas and air at very high pressures. The service time of piston compressors is approximately ten times longer than a conventional diaphragm compressor. Furthermore, because these compressors require very little maintenance, they are an excellent choice for long-term use in a wide variety of applications.
At the top of the cylinder, there’s a valve head that houses the discharge and inlet valves. They are basically thin metal flaps, one of which is mounted underneath and the other is mounted on top of the valve plate. As the piston presses downward, it leaves a vacuum above. This allows air from the outside to push through the inlet valve and fill up the area above the piston. More air continues to enter the tank with every stroke, thus increasing the pressure within the tank.
Buying a Custom Air Compressor
There are numerous companies that sell air compressors designed for specific purposes. You can contact the company to discuss details of the application for which you plan to use the compressor. The company will show you all of the compressors available in their inventory, and recommend the ones that work best. You can either ask the company to design a specific air compressor for the job, or choose one from the company’s inventory. Industrial air compressors generally cost a great amount of money and are designed only for specific purposes.