Posts Tagged ‘compressed air’

Why Consider Variable Speed Air Compressors?

Friday, October 28th, 2011

Did you know that up to 12% of power generated in the United Kingdom is down to the production of compressed air? Also, around 20% of the electricity used by factories is because of compressed air. This shows the prevalence and importance of the air compressor in industrial situations, and it also highlights the benefits of saving energy wherever possible.

If you are looking for an air compressor that can help you save energy, you might want to consider a variable speed air compressor. As you can control the speed of these air compressors, it means you can have a more precise flow of air for your needs, which can help you to save energy when compared with a fixed speed alternative air compressor.

While you do have to be particularly careful with heat and moisture in the drive of variable speed air compressors, they also have the benefit of having very low noise levels. This means they can be installed nearer to or even in the workplace without needing to worry about noise pollution or other issues.

The fact that you can control the speed of the air compressor also means you can get more exact results, something that can improve processes as well as saving energy – making the variable speed air compressor attractive for a variety of different purposes.

What Should You Do if your Air Compressor Stops Working?

Friday, October 21st, 2011

Most of the time, you should find that any air compressor you own works exactly as it should do. However, like all machines, very occasionally you might discover a problem with your air compressor. Don’t panic, though, as more often than not there are steps you can take to put things right again.

Unless you are an expert in air compressors, it is a good idea to speak to someone who knows what they are doing as they should be able to advise you on exactly what is wrong with your compressor. Often, you will be able to find spare compressor components available to replace whatever is faulty in your compressor.

There is a wide range of compressor components available, including for specific manufacturers, including Atlas Copco parts. It is also possible to get spare air compressor parts for unusual models, so even if your specific compressor is no longer in production, there’s every chance you should be able to sort it out.

Finally, always get a professional to install your replacement compressor components for you. They’ll be able to check that everything is as it should be, and your air compressor should be back in working order in no time.

Compressed Air Systems for Garages

Friday, October 14th, 2011

If you work in or own a garage where cars and other vehicles are repaired on a regular basis, you will no doubt be familiar with tools such as wrenches, the aim of which is to help you achieve more with the tool that you would using your strength alone.

Often, wrenches use an air compressor system to help you produce a large amount of torque for a minimal amount of effort. For example, a tool such as an impact wrench – often known as a ratchet wrench – uses an air compressor to complete tasks such as turning bolts and other fasteners. As you might expect, these types of air compressors are particularly popular for use in garages and for other bodywork purposes.

When choosing air compressor systems such as ratchet wrenches, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. One is that there are different varieties of air compressor wrenches available, so it’s important to evaluate your needs so you can choose the one with the level of power that would be best for you. It can also be useful to choose a tool with a pistol grip to aid comfort and ease of use.

Air Compressor Spare Parts

Friday, August 5th, 2011

With any frequently used industrial air compressor, there will come a time when a replacement part will be required. Some air compressor parts are more likely to need replacing than others so knowing what these parts are will make it easier to track them down when the time comes.

First things first; you need to find out what air compressor model you work with in order to purchase the correct air compressor part. If you are unsure, check the manufacturer handbook that came with the air compressor. As a general rule, air compressors require air compressor spare parts which have been produced by that specific manufacturer. However, air compressor parts by manufacturers such as Ingersoll Rand are interchangeable in various machines.

The hose is the air compressor part which most commonly needs to be replaced. The hose is where the compressed air exits the machines. The hose leads from the main compressed air tank. The hose will need to be replaced if the outer lining begins to tear. The level will also be one of the air compressor parts to require that is most likely to need a new one. The level forces air out of the spout when it is pressed down. If the handle becomes difficult to press down, try applying oil to it. If this does not work, it may need to be replaced.

Keep the air flowing with an Air Compressor Pump

Friday, July 29th, 2011

An air compressor pump is an integral part of a compressed air system. An efficient air compressor is vital to many industries so it is important to have all the components in good working order. Initially, you need to make sure that you have the correct air compressor pump for your particular machine. There are many machine models available and each one can require different air compressor components. One such component is an air compressor pump. Fitting the correct air compressor pump will mean that your air compressor will achieve optimum performance.

There are two main types of air compressor pumps; oil air compressor pups and oil-free air compressor pumps. Oil air compressor pumps are the traditional type of pump. They are known for being long-lasting, emit low noise levels and are low-maintenance. Oil-free air compressor pumps supply air of a higher quality but they don’t tend to last as long.

An air compressor pump needs to be reliable as high pressure is the key to the performance of an air compressor. Compressed air is a convenient, clean, flexible and relatively safe source of energy. This is why it is such a popular choice of energy in industry today.

Knowing your Air Compressors

Friday, July 22nd, 2011

Having the right industrial air compressor will ensure that you save time, increase efficiency and that you won’t jeopardise your safety. It is important to be clear when purchasing an industrial air compressor exactly what it will be used for and with what air tools.

Reciprocating air compressors are the most common types of air compressor. They work using a simple piston-driven mechanism which increases the level of pressure in its cylinder. The compressed air is then stored, ready for use, in a holding tank.

Rotary air compressors work in a completely different way to reciprocating air compressors. Rotary air compressors are of a more complex design. Air is compressed by helical screws which spin around in within a sealed chamber. The larger the job is, the larger the rotary air compressor should be as size is an influential factor of operation.

There is an extensive range of applications that air compressors can be used for. Jobs which require short bursts of energy are best suited to reciprocal air compressors. Go with a reciprocal air compressor if you require a source of continuous energy – for example, spray painting. The reason for this is that reciprocal air compressors do not require interval periods in order to build up pressure again after use – unlike rotary air compressors.

Air Compressor Piping Installation

Friday, July 15th, 2011

When having a compressed air system installed into your workplace, one of the most vital parts is the air compressor piping. Air compressor piping needs to be installed correctly or it cause problems with your equipment and lead to a lot of wasted air. The best way to achieve the most efficiency from your air compressor is to employ the services of an air compressor specialist to fit the air compressor piping.

One of the first factors to consider when having air compressor piping installed is where the compressed air system will be situated. Drawing a mark on the correct area initially is a good idea and will help the air compressor specialist to get the positioning correct. It is advisable to avoid carrying out the installation on your own as there is a strong possibility that mistakes or injuries may occur.

Many air compressor piping suppliers will also provide an installation service as well as free estimates so you know exactly how much the fitting of your compressed air system will cost. Don’t try and save money by installing air compressor piping yourself or you could end up wasting much more on air leaks.

Feel the Pressure with Industrial Air Compressors

Friday, July 8th, 2011

The general rule for compressed air is the bigger the business, the bigger the air compressor. Large-scale air compressors are designed to deliver much higher levels of compressed air in order to power industrial machinery and equipment. Industrial air compressors have the capability to work continuously without compromising on efficiency. This is why compressed air is used as an energy source in nearly all industries, worldwide.

In order to maintain consistency, air compressors must be able to maintain the level of air pressure which is transferred to equipment. Air compressors work by filling a chamber with air. This is pressurised to the required level and then released through valves. The energy which is used to power the attached tools and equipment is generated by the release of the compressed air.

Industrial air compressors are extremely reliable as they are built to last and also a very economic alternative to electrical energy. All air compressors need is regular maintenance to keep them performing to their full capacity. Industrial air compressors are the key to attracting and maintaining business.

How Compressed Air is used

Friday, July 1st, 2011

Have you ever actually considered the importance of compressed air in industry today? Compressed air actually accounts for 10% of all energy used in industry, across the entire world. This is a rather impressive achievement for something which had such humble beginnings. Compressed air was initially used to fan the flames of a fire to make it hot enough to smelt and forge metal ores. However, once it was acknowledged how versatile compressed air actually is it began to be used for many different applications.

Today, compressed air is used in a wide range of different industries including construction, mining, health, environmental and food. Compressed air is such a popular source of energy because it has a large number of benefits on offer. For food and health industries, the fact that compressed air is a very hygienic option makes it ideal. Compressed air is also non-flammable which makes it a safe energy solution for industries which work with explosive materials, such as oil.

Using equipment and tools which are powered by compressed air will not be affected by extreme temperatures so they will continue to run efficiently. Compressed air tools are usually much lighter in weight than electrical tools so they are easy to operate and transport around.

Daily Air Compressor Servicing

Friday, June 10th, 2011

Air compressor servicing is essential when it comes to extending the life of your air compressor. Air compressors are an integral part of many operations and need to be relied upon. To ensure that your air compressor is running as efficiently as possible, it important that regular air compressor servicing is carried out.

There are certain air compressor servicing checks which are only required to be performed every six months or once a year. However, there are many elements of an air compressor that should be looked at on a daily basis. There are several basic factors to monitor each day such as wiring, pump oil level, air leaks and general cleanliness. However, there are more checks to be completed which often go neglected.

Make sure that the correct air filter is fitted or problems could occur. Different filters have different functions. Some trap dust particles based on micron size whereas other air compressor filters remove oil and water.

Air tanks need to be emptied after the air compressor has been used i.e. at the end of the working day. Condensation build-up may contain oil particles so make sure that this is disposed of properly. If air compressor tanks are not drained then the build-up of moisture could cause damage to the compressed air system. The more humid the environment is, the more frequently the air compressor tank needs to be drained. If this is not done, sludge could build up in the air compressor pump and cause premature wear.

Carrying out these daily air compressor servicing will maintain the efficiency of your air compressor and also avoid unnecessary repair costs.