Air compressor is not a technology which was invented in the 21st century, it is a practice that began around 3000-1500 B.C. During its early age, this device was operated manually, however, several hundred years later, advanced mechanical systems replaced it and added a degree of automation to the whole process. This invention has benefited and powered multiple industries as it is being used for lifting objects, powering tools, and moving materials. However, there are a range of air compressors available in the market and different industries require different air compressors to perform operations smoothly. So, in this blog we will explore various types of industrial air compressors along with their applications and working principles.
Reciprocating Air Compressor
Reciprocating Air Compressor, also known as Piston Air Compressor is a type of machine which is commonly used for portable applications used in small workshops. This air compressor is among the oldest and the most commonly used ones in industrial operations. These compressors have a piston and cylinder assembly and the compression process occurs in two main stages i.e. compression and intake. This industrial air compressor works for applications like small-scale construction projects, automotive repair, paint spray, and manufacturing facilities. Reciprocating air compressors come in single and multi-stage variation. So, if you need less energy, go for a single stage, and for more-energy, go for multi-stage.
Rotary Screw Air Compressors
Rotary screw works through two internal screws that rotate in opposite directions. It is the easiest type of air compressor as it is equipped with an internal cooling system that does not need much maintenance. This compressor uses two interlocking helical screws which are also known as rotors to compress the air. One rotor remains stationary, while the other one is driven by a motor. Rotary screw air compressors are used in applications like pharmaceutical, mining, manufacturing, food & beverages, and oil & gas sectors. Talking about its working principle, air enters the compressor via an intake valve and is trapped between the two rotating screws. After this, the air is being compressed as the screw rotates and is forced into a smaller volume. After this, the compressed air is discharged through an exhausting valve.
Oil-Free Air Compressor
An oil-free air compressor runs without the use of any oil in the compression chamber. Traditional air compressors were highly dependent on oil-lubricants but this modern oil-free compressor remains oil free. This feature makes it an ideal deal for industries and applications like food & beverages, pharmaceutical, oil & gas, electronics, semiconductor, textiles, etc. In addition, there are multiple benefits of using oil-free air compressors like the compressed air is pure, reduces the maintenance & operating costs, and multiple environmental advantages as it lowers the carbon footprints. The operations of this industrial air compressor takes place in basically four steps i.e. intaking of air, compression process, cooling stage, and lastly, delivery of compressed air.
Screw Air Compressor
A screw air compressor is used in operations where there is a continuous demand of air. In a screw air compressor, the air is trapped between two meshed rotors, after which the air volume is reduced as it moves through the rotors. This movement of air causes compressed air which is being used in a range of applications like pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, food & beverages, etc. One of the major advantages of this air compressor is that it supplies continuous compressed air which allows the operations to run without any obstacle.
Centrifugal Air Compressor
Centrifugal air compressor, also known as dynamic air compressor, uses centrifugal force to increase the pressure of the incoming air. This industrial air compressors are designed to be used in large-scale applications where high volume of compressed air is required. Moreover, they are majorly used in applications where the demand of consistent air flow is higher like power generation, large manufacturing facilities, petrochemical industries, and power generations.
Across different industries, industrial air compressors are an important tool. Another important element here is to choose the right air compressor as per your industry’s need and preference. While looking for an air compressor, do not forget to include some important factors like space constraints, airflow demand, energy efficiency, and pressure requirements. Always understand the difference between the small-scale operations and heavy-duty ones to optimize operations and ensure long-term reliability. If you are looking to invest in air compressors, check out Delta Industries, as it manufactures world-class compressors for every application and industry.