Sunday, November 3, 2013
How Do Auto Air Compressors Work
Air compressors are used to power tools and inflate tires within an auto shop. Theyre also used in gas stations, homes and manufacturing plants. Air compressors are designed to use air that is stored under pressure to power tools, such as nail guns, sanders, drills and spray guns.
Types
Two different types of air compressors are used commonly to provide energy to tools, and they are the rotating impeller compressor and the positive-displacement compressor. Many businesses and mechanics use the positive-displacement compressors more so than the rotating impeller type.
Operation
Air compressors are powered by an electric or gas engine that uses a reciprocating piston (or small combustion motor) to generate pressure. They typically have one or two cylinders contained within the motor. Preset pressured air is held in a tank and then released when the motor powers a tool. Pressure is maintained within the tank from an automatic cycling process that turns the motor off and on at different intervals. This allows for tools to be connected and used right away as opposed to waiting for air pressure to build back up inside of the tank.
Considerations
Compressors also use a pressure switch that automatically stops the motor when the tank pressure reaches a certain preset limit, which varies by unit. Most tanks are designed with a safety valve that will release extra pressure when needed. Atmospheric pressure determines how air is released from the compressor and oil is important for lubricating the parts within a compressor. Each of these factors is important to the overall function of the air compressor.
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