With so many different types of compressors in the marketplace, it is very important have a very good perception of what each type of compressor is specifically made for. Compressors can be used for anything from powering tools to compressing air for use in motor vehicle tyres or diving cylinders and naturally the type, shape and size of compressors will vary significantly in order to take care of the specific tasks at hand.
The primary aim of a compressor is to raise the pressure of a gas. This is generally achieved by decreasing the volume of the gas. A compressor can basically be compared to a pump that is used to raise pressure. Once the pressure has been elevated the gas is sent through a tube. A compressor has the same purpose and the compressed air will also be transported and applied for the task at hand. It is however important to remember that certain fluids can also be compressed and that compressors are not used solely to compress gas.
Compressors are grouped in two different ways. The first kind operates by means of positive displacement and the 2nd type is known as dynamic compressors. Compressors are then further split into rotary screw compressors (positive displacement), rotary centrifugal compressors (dynamic displacement), axial compressors (dynamic displacement) and reciprocating compressors (positive displacement). To further split the compressors into types and subcategories, the subsequent questions should be asked:
How many compression phases may take place? Is the compression driven by steam, engine motor or through another form of power? Does the compressed air make contact with lubricating oil or is no oil used for lubrication? Is water, air or oil used as a cooling method?
Let's have a look at some of the tasks that gas compressors are utilized for:
As mentioned previously, compressed air are often used to power certain types of tools. These air-driven tools are often utilized in the industrial and production industries where high impact tools are often used for extended periods.
If you've ever flown in an aircraft, you might have pondered how it was possible to inhale and exhale while you were in atmosphere with an extremely low ambient pressure. In pressurized airplanes compressors are responsible for maintaining a breathable pressure which is a lot higher than the ambient environment.
Many scuba divers are also familiar with compressors and the valuable tasks they can be applied for. This ranges from compressing air to fill scuba diving cylinders to a vitally important medical therapy in the form of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
The transportation industry also has a lot of uses for compressed air. Rail and road car brakes are two everyday applications that are powered by compressed air. Even opening car doors, operating windscreen wipers and engine and gearbox control would not be possible without compressors and compressed air.
Make sure that you properly evaluate your needs and requirements before deciding on the best type and size of compressor. A lot of companies will also offer you the opportunity of hiring a compressor before investing in your own. Just be sure you make an informed decision.
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