Positive Displacement Air Compressors

Published by Syed Hussain on

A positive displacement air compressor is a type of air compressor that works by trapping a fixed amount of air and compressing it to a higher pressure. This is achieved through the use of a reciprocating piston, a rotating screw, or a vane.

Working Principle of Positive Air Compressors:

The basic working principle of a positive displacement air compressor involves the following steps:

Air Intake: Air is drawn into the compressor through an inlet valve and is directed into the compression chamber.

Trapping of Air: The rotating component (piston, screw, or vane) traps a fixed amount of air in the compression chamber, creating a confined space.

Compression of Air: As the rotating component moves towards the discharge valve, it reduces the volume of the compression chamber, which in turn increases the pressure and density of the air. In a piston compressor, for example, the piston moves back and forth within the cylinder, compressing the air trapped in the cylinder with each stroke.

Discharge of Air: Once the air has been compressed, it is discharged through the discharge valve into a storage tank or the supply line. The discharge valve is typically opened and closed by a pressure switch, which is triggered by the increased pressure in the compression chamber.

Exhaust of Air: After the compressed air has been discharged, the rotating component returns to its original position, drawing in a fresh supply of air and starting the process again. Exhausted air is typically expelled through an outlet valve.

In conclusion, the working principle of a positive displacement air compressor involves trapping a fixed amount of air, compressing it to increase its pressure and density, discharging the compressed air, and exhausting the compressed air. This process is repeated continuously to provide a steady supply of compressed air. Positive displacement air compressors are widely used in various industries and applications and are known for their reliability and durability.

 

Types of Positive Displacement Air Compressors:

 

There are several different types of positive air compressors, including:

 

Piston Compressors:

Piston compressors also known as reciprocating compressors, these compressors use a piston to compress air in a cylinder. They are available in single-stage and multi-stage models and are commonly used for small to medium-sized operations.

Rotary Screw Compressors:

These compressors use two rotors to compress air in a chamber, making them ideal for continuous operation in large industrial applications. They are more efficient and durable than piston compressors and are available in oil-injected and oil-free models.

Scroll Compressors:

These Types of Positive Displacement Air compressors use two scrolls to compress air, making them highly efficient and compact. They are commonly used for small to medium-sized operations and are available in both oil-injected and oil-free models.

Centrifugal Compressors:

These compressors use a spinning impeller to compress air, making them ideal for high-volume, low-pressure applications. They are commonly used in power plants, refineries, and other large industrial applications.

Diaphragm Compressors:

These types of Positive Displacement Air compressors use a flexible diaphragm to compress air in a chamber, making them ideal for use in applications where contamination of the compressed air is a concern. They are commonly used in the food and beverage industry and are available in both oil-injected and oil-free models.

Lobe Compressors:

Lobe Air Compressors use two interlocking lobes to compress air, making them ideal for use in applications where low noise levels are a concern. They are commonly used in pharmaceutical and laboratory applications.

 

Each type of positive air compressor has its own unique features and benefits, and the best choice for a particular application will depend on a number of factors, including the size of the operation, the type of air compression required, and the specific requirements of the application. It is important to choose the right type of compressor for your needs to ensure that you get the most efficient and effective operation possible.

 

Applications of Positive Displacement Air Compressors:

 

Positive displacement air compressors are used in a variety of applications, including:

 

  • Industrial manufacturing processes, such as sandblasting, painting, and pneumatic tool operation.
  • HVAC systems for building climate control.
  • Automotive repair, such as tire inflation and engine diagnostic testing.
  • Food and beverage production, where compressed air is used to power equipment, clean surfaces, and package products.
  • Oil and gas industry, where compressors are used to power drilling and other petroleum extraction processes.
  • Medical equipment, such as breathing machines and oxygen concentrators.
  • Research and development, where compressed air is used in laboratory experiments and simulations

 

Advantages of Positive Displacement Air Compressors:

 

Positive Displacement air compressors have several advantages over other types of compressors:

High Efficiency: Positive displacement compressors have a higher compression efficiency compared to dynamic compressors.

Constant Flow Rate: These compressors deliver a constant flow rate, which is useful for applications that require a stable flow of compressed air.

High Pressure Generation: They can generate high pressure levels, making them suitable for high-pressure applications.

Durability: Positive displacement compressors have fewer moving parts compared to dynamic compressors, which increases their durability and reduces maintenance requirements.

Versatility: They are available in various types, such as reciprocating, rotary screw, and vane compressors, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

Suitable for Dirty Air: Positive displacement compressors can handle dirty or contaminated air, which can cause problems for dynamic compressors.

 

Disadvantages of Positive Displacement Air Compressors:

 

Positive Displacement air compressors have several Disadvantages over other types of compressors:

Low Efficiency: Positive displacement compressors are less efficient than dynamic compressors due to internal leakage of air, which results in lower volumetric efficiency.

Maintenance Intensive: These compressors require more maintenance due to their complex mechanical design and moving parts.

Higher Initial Cost: Positive displacement compressors are generally more expensive than dynamic compressors.

Limited Pressure Capabilities: Positive displacement compressors are limited in the pressure they can achieve compared to dynamic compressors.

Larger Footprint: Positive displacement compressors tend to be larger in size and require more floor space.

Limited Flow Capacity: The flow capacity of positive displacement compressors is limited due to their design, making them less suitable for applications with high air demand.

Noisy Operation: Positive displacement Air Compressors are typically noisier than dynamic Air compressors, making them less suitable for use in environments where noise is a concern.

 

Safety Precautions for Positive Displacement Air Compressors:

 

Here are some safety precautions for positive displacement air compressors:

 

  • Read and follow the manufacturer’s manual and safety instructions.
  • Inspect the equipment regularly for any signs of wear or damage.
  • Ensure that the area around the compressor is free from debris and well-lit.
  • Wear protective gear such as eye protection and hearing protection.
  • Keep loose clothing, jewelry, and long hair away from moving parts.
  • Turn off and disconnect power before performing maintenance.
  • Use proper lifting techniques when moving heavy components.
  • Ensure that the compressor is properly grounded.
  • Store compressed air in a properly rated tank with safety valves.
  • Do not use compressed air to clean skin or clothing.

It is important to observe these precautions to prevent accidents, injuries, and equipment damage.

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