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  • Compressor Controls for Modern Air Systems

    Compressor controllers were designed to efficiently control the air flow supplied to modern manufacturing facilities. Compressor controllers manage multiple air compressors which deliver the required air to a distribution system. They operate using predetermined ranges of pressure to monitor and regulate the energy output according to demand. By monitoring pressure levels the system either decreases air flow once the predetermined level has been reached, or increases once the lower level has been reached. Compressor controllers for modern air systems are designed to implement combinations of air flow and air pressure that are most economical.

    When using these air control systems you will be able to achieve optimal and efficient energy levels and therefore reduce overall energy cost. Whatever compressor controller system you can implement, there are three different compressor types: fixed speed, variable speed, or rotor length adjustment.

    Fixed speed compressors run at one speed and unload the compressor, reducing power. Rotor length adjustment uses a series of valves. This modulation process simply detects how much pressure is going in and out and adjusts the valves to an appropriate setting. If the outlet pressure decreases, inlet pressure increased, and vice-versa, changing the length of the compressor chamber.

    Variable speed control systems are used for conserving output when multiple controllers are in use to achieve higher levels of efficiency. Any machine that is being used is set to run at full capacity whereas machines not in use are switched to stand-by mode. The varying requirements of air are able to be balanced with variable speed control. The speed of the motor and the output level to coincide with the demands of the system which will in turn change the output levels of the compressor. Variable speed control systems are most efficient when used at 20-80% capacity.

    Dual speed control systems utilize a switch which controls pressure at the discharge point, closing off the inlet valve when higher levels are reached, and opening again at lower levels. By unloading or idling it will reduce the amount of power. This control system has the ability to connect up to a number of compressors with the use of a master compressor controller.

  • Modern Air Compressor Technology

    Industrial Air Compressors are widely used for industrial, manufacturing, commercial, and personal use. The device functions like a human lung. The amount of air is increased in a restricted space which creates a significant air pressure. This pressure is then used for a multitude of purposes ranging from manufacturing industry use in mnemonic devices to commercial uses for compressed air systems.

    Industrial Air Compressors can be broadly divided into two categories: positive placement and dynamic. The positive placement air compressor works in a simple manner by filling and then emptying the gas chamber, while the dynamic industrial air compressor uses a rotating device to control the speed of air that can be put into the device. Following the widespread use of positive placement, the most common types of industrial air compressors available in the market are reciprocating, rotary screw, and rotary sliding vanes. A centrifugal compressor, on the other hand, is a commonly available air compressor of the dynamic category.

    It is essential to choose the right air compressor to suit your needs. Picking an industrial air compressor based on the purpose for which the air compressor will be used can increase efficiency and lower the cost. Industrial air compressors for household uses need not be elaborate, but industrial air compressors have to be strong and durable. Choosing the right manufacturer is equally important. A manufacturer who can provide good quality compressors with excellent after sales service is an important criteria as well. The availability of extra parts must not be discounted. In some cases, air compressors are even available on rent.

    Your job is not over after you buy an industrial air compressor, however. Modern industrial air compressors require a certain level of maintenance. One should make regular checks to ensure that there is no moisture, the copiers are clean and obstacle free, and the valves and other fittings are in good condition with no damage on the electrical cords.

    With advances in technology, modern industrial air compressors are able to run and operate more efficiently than ever. Increases in productivity and energy saving methods are always a positive advantage when talking about advances in modern industrial air compressor technology. Not only does this translate to increased efficiency in the workplace, but also greatly reduces costs for industries utilizing industrial air compressors by remaining at the forefront of modern technology. All these positive attributes highlight the benefits of modern industrial air compressor technology.

  • Reducing Air Compressor Noise In The Workplace

    Air compressors are used in many businesses and industries and are necessary to their operations and functioning. However, air compressors can produce a lot of noise, which can distract workers and hinder their productivity. It is important to find ways to reduce the noise so it does not take away from the work environment.

    First and foremost, make sure that you are using the proper air compressor for the job. There is no real reason to go for overkill, especially when a compressor is going to be used for the same job over and over again. Having more power than necessary is costly and will cause you to spend extra money in the long run. Make sure that you have enough capacity (CFM) and PSI to do what you need and not a lot more.

    Once you have found the air compressor that is right for the job, take a look at your workplace. If the job site is static and not going to move from one place to another, then it is much easier to deal with a noise problem. Something as simple as moving the compressor to an adjacent room where there is no one working can help a great deal to reduce noise levels.

    It is also possible to create a sound shield when the air compressor cannot be moved. Foam egg cartons are some of the best sound proofing material and cost nearly nothing to acquire. The pointed depressions cause the sound to bounce around inside the depressions and be absorbed rather than bounce out into the room. A wall can also be built by the compressor as a barrier to help reduce noise levels. When creating this sound shield, make sure that your air compressor is accessible for maintenance, repairs and upkeep.

    Do not try to cover the air compressor with anything that will hold in heat and/or exhaust. The buildup of heat can damage or ruin the unit and exhaust fumes can be harmful or fatal to employees or workers. Make sure that the unit is as far away from the work area as possible and if the noise is above a certain level ensure that workers have the proper ear protection. When working with equipment, remember that the noise level increases with each added piece of equipment. It is sometimes possible to use equipment in shifts rather than all at the same time.

  • Changing Your Air Compressor Oil

    First, determine if your compressor needs lubrication. Serviceable compressors will look like a single-cylinder engine with a window or a dip stick to check the oil level. Low-end compressors have an oil-free design that replaces the piston with a rubber diaphragm. If the compressor was cheap or the stated service life lists short "on" times it's probably oil-free. Some high-end nail gun compressors also use this design because it's better suited for the quick bursts needed to maintain high tank pressure.

    Next, determine which oil you should use. If there is nothing listed in the user's manual, the safest bet is oil labeled specifically for air compressors: This should be available at your local hardware store. Non-detergent 20w or 30w oil can be used in older compressors. This is available at your local parts store. Other motor oils should not be used in compressors unless specified because it can foam, preventing it from creating a protective film on the internal components. Some new high-end compressors are designed to use synthetic motor oil without foaming problems.

    Now you are ready to change your compressor's oil. The compressor will need to be turned off, but the air tank does not need to be decompressed. Changing the oil in a compressor is a lot like changing the oil in your car; the oil sits in a crankcase or sump and is distributed either by the crank splashing in the oil, by an oil pump, or both. The old oil is drained by opening a plug at the bottom of the case and new oil is added through a hole in the top. If the compressor has a fill window the drain plug will be directly below it. The filler spout will be at the top of the crank case directly above the drain plug.

    Open the plug and let the used oil drain into a container. This oil should be taken to your local parts store for recycling. Close the plug and pour the new oil into the filler spout. Add oil until the level comes to the center of the window or the "full" mark on the dip stick. Most compressors use a quart of oil or less. Oil should be changed at least once a year. User manuals for industrial compressors should specify oil life in service hours; these will often have an hour meter next to the compressor housing. There is no oil filter, so if the compressor is opened for any reason the oil should be changed immediately.