Review and summary

REVIEW AND SUMMARY

• A compressor is a device used to compress air from a low inlet pressure to a higher desired pressure level.

• Types of air compressors :

1. Positive displacement compressors, and

2. Dynamic compressors.

• The construction, operation, advantages, disadvantages, and ranges of piston-, screw-; and vane-type compressors have been described in this chapter.

• Formulae summary :

• The purpose of fluid conditioners is to make the compressed air more acceptable and suitable fluid medium for the pneumatic system components as well as for operating personnel.

• The various fluid conditioners includes:

1. Filters,

2. Regulators,

3. Lubricators,

4. Mufflers, and

5. Air dryers.

• The function of air filters is to remove all foreign matter and allow dry, clean air to flow without restriction to the regulator and then on to the lubricator.

• The function of the air pressure regulator is to regulate the pressure of the incoming compressed air so as to achieve the desired air pressure at a steady condition.

• The function of an air lubricator is to add a controlled amount of oil with air to ensure proper lubrication of internal moving parts of pneumatic components.

• The function of a muffler is to control the noise caused by a rapidly exhausting air stream flowing into the atmosphere.

• The function of air dryers is to remove all water vapour/moisture from the air leaving the compressor.

• The purpose, types, graphic symbol, construction, and operation of the above-said fluid conditioners are also presented in this chapter.

KEY TERMS ONE SHOULD REMEMBER

Compressors

Positive displacement compressors

Piston-type

Screw-type

Rotary-vane type

Staging

Single stage compressors

Air receiver size

Fluid conditioners

Air filters

Air pressure regulators

Air lubricator

Muffler

Air dryers

Multi-stage compressors

Air capacity rating of compressors

FRL unit

Pneumatic silencer