Miscellaneous Mechanical ComponentsDOE-HDBK-1018/2-93AIR COMPRESSORSAIR COMPRESSORSThe purpose of an air compressor is to provide a continuous supply of pressurizedair. This chapter will describe the various types of compressors and their basicoperation.EO 1.1STATE the three common types of air compressors.EO 1.2DESCRIBE the basic operation of the following types of aircompressors:a.Reciprocatingb.Centrifugalc.RotaryEO 1.3STATE the reason for using cooling systems in aircompressors.EO 1.4STATE three hazards associated with pressurized air systems.IntroductionAir compressors of various designs are used widely throughout DOE facilities in numerousapplications. Compressed air has numerous uses throughout a facility including the operation ofequipment and portable tools. Three types of designs include reciprocating, rotary, andcentrifugal air compressors.ReciprocatingCompressorsThe reciprocating air compressor, illustrated in Figure 1, is the most common design employedtoday. The reciprocating compressor normally consists of the following elements.a.The compressing element, consisting of air cylinders, heads and pistons, and airinlet and discharge valves.b.A system of connecting rods, piston rods, crossheads, and a crankshaft andflywheel for transmitting the power developed by the driving unit to the aircylinder piston.Rev. 0ME-05Page 1
Integrated Publishing, Inc. - A (SDVOSB) Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business
