Air Compressors Summary (Cont.)

Air Compressors Summary

HYDRAULICS

Mechanical Science Volume 2 of 2
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Miscellaneous Mechanical Components DOE-HDBK-1018/2-93 AIR COMPRESSORS Air Compressors Summary (Cont.) The centrifugal force utilized by the centrifugal compressors is the same force utilized by the centrifugal pumps. The air particles enter the eye of the impeller. As the impeller rotates, air is thrown against the casing of the compressor. The air becomes compressed as more and more air is thrown out to the casing by the impeller blades. The air is pushed along the path on the inner wall of the casing. The pressure of the air is increased as it is pushed along this path. There could be several stages to a centrifugal air compressor just as in the centrifugal pump, resulting in higher pressure. Rotary compressors are driven by a direct drive that rotates a mechanism (impellers, vanes, or lobes) that compresses the air being pumped. The actual compression of the air takes place due either to centrifugal forces or a diminishing air space as the impellers rotate. Cooling systems are required in compressed air systems to remove any heat added by the compression. The advantages to cooling the compressed air are that cool air takes less space and holds less moisture. This reduces corrosion and allows more air to be compressed into a given volume. Hazards associated with compressed air are similar to hazards of any high pressure system. Three general hazards include the following. Small leaks or breaks can cause minute particles to be blown at speeds high enough to cause damage. Goggles or safety glasses should be worn when working around compressed gas. The compressors, especially larger ones, can be quite noisy when running. The cycling of automatic drain valves contributes noise as well. Hearing protection should be worn around compressors. Pressure swings may cause system damage. Closed valves in a compressed air system should be slowly cracked open and the pressure should be allowed to equalize prior to opening the valve further. Systems should be depressurized prior to opening for maintenance. Oil should be kept out of air systems to prevent possible explosions. Rev. 0 ME-05 Page 9

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