Everything You Needed to Know About Compressors (But Were Too Scared to Ask)

Did you know that there were over 280 million vehicles on the road in the US in 2019?

Whether you drive a car, ride a bike, or take the bus, vehicles are part of our daily lives. However, did you know that it would be impossible to benefit from this technology without one single device? The humble compressor.

People use compressors in some shape or form in almost every industry in the world. Do you want to learn more about compressor technology? Why not read on to find out how compressors work and much more.

What are the Basic Principles?

So how does a compressor work? Compressors work by using a piston to raise the pressure of air in a changer.

Compressors are generally made up of an electric or gas-powered motor and valves to take in and release air. You will need a chamber to compress the air and a location to store the compressed air.

How Do You Compress Air?

There are two types of mechanisms that achieve the necessary level of air displacement.

Positive displacement involves the drawing of air into the displacement chamber. Following this, the volume of the chamber is slowly reduced, thus increasing the pressure of the air.

When dynamic displacement is used, an impellor is employed to force air into the chamber. this form of compression is generally faster than positive displacement. Dynamic compression is often the type used in car engine super compressors.

Positive Displacement Air Compressors

Even though dynamic compression is the faster method of compressing air, general positive displacement is far more common. Here are two of the main forms of positive air compressors.

Rotary Screw

The rotary screw is generally used in industrial settings. It uses two screws that are turning in opposite directions. Their turning motions create a vacuum that pulls in air from outside. The air trapped between the screw threads is slowly compressed. This air then escapes through valves into a containment tank.

Rotary Vane

rotary vane compressor involves the use of a small motor that is located off-center inside a rounded cavity. The engine has long arms. These arms are long and rotate with the engine. The turning motor creates a small space between the vanes and the chamber wall. This increases the air pressure. These air compressors are small and can be used in non-industrial settings.

Everything You Needed to Know About How Compressors Work and Much More

Compressors come in all shapes and sizes and are used in almost every industry. By learning how compressors work, you put yourself in a great position. You will be able to identify and purchase the model that meets your exact needs. You may be able to perform some maintenance to extend the life of your compressor.

If you would like to learn more about engineering, business or indeed any other subject, then why not keep on reading. We gather and share the latest information about important trends. You might just find what you were looking for.