An
air compressor is a light machine which is considered to be the central
power source for all varieties of air tools. Air compressors reduces the
volume of a gas while increasing the pressure and heat. The pressure and
the heat so generated has many industrial and small infrastructural
applications. There are two main sources of power for an air
compressor-gasoline and electric supply. Gas powered air compressor are
applied in those areas where there is no electric supply. Whereas
electric powered air compressor are best suited to those enclosed areas
where gas fumes are unacceptable.
Types of Air Compressors
On the basis of their construction air compressors are categorized as :
- Reciprocating Compressors
- Centrifugal Compressors
- Axial-flow Compressors
- Scroll Compressors
- Rotary Screw Compressors
Advantages
- Tools of an air compressors are smaller and easier to use than
electrically powered tools. Tools are smaller and easy to handle as
there is no need for a power source on the tool itself.
- Due to higher torque and revolution per minute than electrically
powered tools which allows the user to finish more quickly.
- An air compressor has a longer life than electrically powered
tools.
Applications
The applications of air compressors are :
- In manufacturing industries
- Infrastructure construction and maintenance
- Water well drilling
- Mining
- Oil and gas production
