What is compressed air?

• Compressed air is air that is under pressure and has more pressure than atmospheric pressure. It is the same air you breathe, only compressed to a smaller volume and held under pressure. Air consists of 78% nitrogen, 20-21% oxygen, and about 1-2% of other gases and water vapor. Upon compression, the air still consists of the same mixture of gases, but it is compressed into a smaller space, causing the molecules to come closer together.

• Compressed air can be stored at high pressure and is a fantastic medium for transferring energy. Compressed air is a popular energy source because it is safer and easier than alternative options such as steam and batteries. Steam can be dangerous because it becomes extremely hot, while batteries can run out of power, making both options unfavorable.

• Compressed air is safe to use, easy to store, and has many versatile applications.

WHERE IS COMPRESSED AIR USED?

• Compressed air is used as an energy source and as active air.

• As an energy source, compressed air is often used to power pneumatic machines such as drills, hammers, wrenches, and grinders.

• Active air is air that comes into direct contact with the product. Therefore, it must be clean, dry, and free of contaminants. To ensure these standards, many choose to use oil-free air compressors or air tools to clean and dry the compressed air.

SOME OF THE KEY INDUSTRIES THAT USE COMPRESSED AIR ARE:

• Chemicals Chemical manufacturers want to ensure the quality of the products they provide. Due to the unstable nature of chemicals, it is important that the compressed air used is clean and free of oil. Applications within this industry include material handling, air curtains, and product drying.

• Automotive Compressed air plays an integral role in the production and manufacture of cars. From assembly using air-operated robots to finishing paint with compressed air spray tools, the automotive industry relies on compressors to produce high-quality vehicles.

• Industrial Compressed air is widely used in industrial applications, including construction projects, mechanical repair projects, road maintenance, factory production, assembly production, and more. It is often used to power machines and tools, as well as to operate pneumatic conveyors, compressed air tools, and even air conditioning systems.

• Food and beverage Compressed air also plays a significant role in the food and beverage industry, where it is used for transporting raw materials, filling packaging, powering machines, and even aerating products such as beer and soda. It is important that the air that comes into contact with food is clean and free of contaminants, which is why special air purification systems and filters are often used.

HOW IS COMPRESSED AIR MADE?

Compressed air is produced by air compressors. An air compressor takes in air and compresses it to a higher pressure. Air compressors are available in different types, including piston compressors, screw compressors, and scroll compressors. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the application and the specific needs of the user.

It is important to remember that compressed air is under high pressure and therefore must be handled and stored carefully. Regular maintenance and inspection of the equipment and storage space are crucial to ensure safety.