Miscellaneous Mechanical Components
DOE-HDBK-1018/2-93
AIR COMPRESSORS
AIR COMPRESSORS
The purpose of an air compressor is to provide a continuous supply of pressurized
air. This chapter will describe the various types of compressors and their basic
operation.
EO 1.1
STATE the three common types of air compressors.
EO 1.2
DESCRIBE the basic operation of the following types of air
compressors:
a.
Reciprocating
b.
Centrifugal
c.
Rotary
EO 1.3
STATE the reason for using cooling systems in air
compressors.
EO 1.4
STATE three hazards associated with pressurized air systems.
Introduction
Air compressors of various designs are used widely throughout DOE facilities in numerous
applications. Compressed air has numerous uses throughout a facility including the operation of
equipment and portable tools.
Three types of designs include reciprocating, rotary, and
centrifugal air compressors.
Reciprocating Compressors
The reciprocating air compressor, illustrated in Figure 1, is the most common design employed
today.
The reciprocating compressor normally consists of the following elements.
a.
The compressing element, consisting of air cylinders, heads and pistons, and air
inlet and discharge valves.
b.
A system of connecting rods, piston rods, crossheads, and a crankshaft and
flywheel for transmitting the power developed by the driving unit to the air
cylinder piston.
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ME-05
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