As the business started upgrading and technology became advanced, air compressors became an important tool for a range of businesses. An air compressor is a tool that converts power into potential energy stored in pressurized air. This process is done by using a gasoline engine, diesel, or electric motor. An air compressor is being used for a variety of applications and it is classified according to the pressure it delivers. There are multiple types of air compressor available in the market as per the preference and requirements of the market and in this blog, we will discuss about the most important air compressor i.e. Piston Air Compressor. A piston air compressor, also known as reciprocating compressor, is the most common and the oldest type of industrial compressor. This compressor was invented in the 18th century and has been used since then. Unlike traditional piston air compressors, modern ones relatively work on versatility and durability.
Moreover, before studying in depth about piston air compressors, let’s understand the usage of compressed air. Compressed air is being used in two ways, i.e. as a part of a process and as energy. These two ways are referred to as Active Air and Energy Air, respectively.
Working and Different Types of Piston Air Compressor
Now, let’s get into the depth and understand how a piston air compressor works. A piston air compressor operates using the concept of positive displacement. This means that these compressors increase the pressure of the air by reducing the overall volume. These compressors are available in double acting or single acting, oil-lubricated or oil-free variants, with a range of cylinders. Here, it is important to understand the difference between all the four types of air compressors.
When it comes to single-acting piston compressors and double-acting air compressors, in single-acting, the fluid enters on one side and pushes the piston, on the other hand, in double-acting, the compressor has fluid on both the ends. Not only this, the single-acting model is the most commonly used compressor. In addition, single-acting compressors are mainly air-cooled, oil lubricated with a power output limitation. On the other hand, double-acting model air compressors have crossheads that generate a pure strait movement after connecting rods, which makes it a primary and different process in heavy-duty industrial units.
When it comes to oil-lubricant air piston compressors, it keeps the pistons, cylinders, and cranks lubricated by circulating the oil throughout the machine. The major thing that needs to be remembered here is that a tiny drop of oil can end up compressed air and can create problems in food & drinks, electronics, and pharmaceuticals. This is because these are the industries that prefer oil-free piston compressors. However, oil-lubricants are compared to oil-free compressors, they mostly have more moving parts and this is the reason which makes this air compressor heavier, more powerful, and expensive at the same time.
Although the technology has changed drastically, its basic concept is the same, and these are:
A piston air compressor creates a vacuum when the piston compressor descents. This causes air drawn into the compressor via channels.
After this, the air passes through the channel valves and goes into the cylinder. The discharge valve closes, while the channel valve is open. In simpler words, when air travels in, it is unable to get out.
Here, when the cylinder gets full, the piston arises which compresses the air. This air compressor operates using the principle of positive displacement. This means that they increase the pressure of the air by reducing its overall volume. Here, the main components are its valve, air compressor, and a piston which moves forth and back inside a cylinder. In addition, as the piston moves downwards, it draws the air into the cylinder. On the other hand, when the piston moves back up inside the cylinder, the channel valve closes. This forces the air inside the cylinder to compress. This whole process is repeated in a loop to ensure that there is a continuous supply of compressed air.
Applications of Piston Compressors
After understanding how these compressors work and different types of piston air compressors, let’s learn about its applications. In the automotive industries, these air compressors are used in spray painting, tyre inflation, and powering pneumatic tools. When it comes to manufacturing, this air compressor is used in air-powering tools, pneumatic conveying, and air separation processes. In the healthcare sector, these air compressors are used in major medical applications like laboratory equipment, ventilators, and dental chairs. Lastly, in personal and commercial settings, piston air compressors are utilized at construction sites, workshops, and other DIY projects for various equipment and air-powered tools.
Pros of Piston Air Compressors
Piston air compressors are manufactured to be used in multiple sectors, but before optioning for one, it is important to know about its advantages.
Durability
Piston air compressors are known for its robust construction as it can withstand heavy usage and harsh working conditions easily. It has the power to provide excellent services for years, especially if it is from a reliable manufacturer. This compressor becomes more valuable and durable when it undergoes maintenance on a regular basis.Â
Versatility
Piston compressors are super versatile in nature which makes them a suitable tool for a range of applications. It can be used from powering air tools to other industrial air demands. The versatile nature of these compressors delivers the necessary pressure level for both heavy and light duty work.
Easy Maintenance
Maintenance of the piston air compressor is super easy. All you need to consider is its unwanted sounds, vibrations, valve checks, and regular lubrication.
Cost-Effectiveness
If we compare a piston air compressor to that of other compressors, it is generally more affordable. This is because this compressor has a straightforward design and productivity which makes it super cost-effective for businesses with compressed air demand.
High-Pressure Capability
Unlike other air compressors, piston air compressors use displacement compression. In this process, the air is drawn into a chamber, where it is being compressed. This whole process allows the machine to work even on high-pressure and this makes it an ideal tool in places where powerful air delivery is required.
Now, the biggest question here is why you should buy a piston air compressor. This is a very popular technology available in the market which is also economical and affordable. Unlike traditional days, when these compressors were noisy and burdensome, new age and advanced technology has changed everything and has added some amazing new features which smoothen and fasten the operations. On one hand, where small and mid-size compressors range from 0.55 to 15 KW, large style piston compressors can go up to 560 KW. So, if you are looking to invest in piston air compressors, consult with Delta industries, a renowned piston air compressor in Ahmedabad. Understand the details of the piston air compressor and detail and invest in the best for excellent and long-term operations.
