Understanding Compressed Air Systems
In this day and age, it's difficult to find a manufacturing or construction business that does not use industrial compressors regularly in their daily routine. The key advantage of air compressors is that they can take the potential energy that builds up when a gas such as atmospheric air is placed under pressure and quickly convert it to kinetic energy. That energy can be used to drive small power tools such as impact wrenches or nail guns. Larger compressors are used in manufacturing when a large amount of torque needs to be applied. Most importantly, compressors are quite reliable and don't require extensive maintenance. Basic Components of Compressors compressors are similar to small internal combustion engines since they consist of a piston, a cylinder, and a connecting rod that is attached to a crankshaft. The crankshaft is driven externally, either by an electric or gas motor to rotate the shaft and move the piston up or down. The top of the piston cylinder has a valv...