RESEARCH ON
AUX MACH 1
A Partial Fulfillment of the Course
Submitted by:
Del Mundo, Aaron Angelo I.
BSMARE 2A5
Submitted to:
2/E Ruy Lorenzo Perez
Instructor
Principles of Air Compressors
Air compressors work on the principle of converting power (using an electric
motor, diesel or gasoline engine, etc.) into potential energy stored in pressurized
air (compressed air). By compressing the air, it increases the air's pressure, which
can then be released to perform various tasks, such as powering tools, inflating
tires, or operating machinery.
The basic operation involves drawing in atmospheric air, reducing its volume by
compression, and storing the compressed air in a storage tank for future use. The
compressed air is then released through a controlled valve to perform work.
Types of Air Compressors
Air compressors can be categorized into several types based on their design,
mode of operation, and application. The main types include:
1. Positive Displacement Compressors: These compressors work by
drawing in a fixed volume of air and then reducing its volume to increase
pressure. The two main types of positive displacement compressors are:
o Reciprocating (Piston) Compressors:
Single-Stage Compressors: Compress air in one step,
typically up to pressures of 120 PSI.
Two-Stage Compressors: Compress air in two steps,
achieving higher pressures up to 175 PSI or more.
Commonly used in small workshops, garages, and for general-
purpose tasks.
o Rotary Screw Compressors:
Use two meshing helical screws to compress air.
Continuous operation, suitable for industrial applications.
Lower maintenance compared to reciprocating compressors.
o Rotary Vane Compressors:
Use a rotor with sliding vanes to compress air.
Suitable for lower pressure and continuous-duty applications.
2. Dynamic Compressors: These compressors work by imparting velocity to
the air using rotating blades, then converting this velocity into pressure. The
main types are:
o Centrifugal Compressors:
Use a high-speed rotating impeller to accelerate the air, then
slow it down in a diffuser to build pressure.
Typically used in large industrial applications where high
volumes of air at moderate pressures are required.
o Axial Compressors:
Air flows parallel to the axis of the compressor.
Used in high-flow, low-pressure applications like jet engines
and large industrial processes.
3. Others:
o Scroll Compressors:
Use two spiral elements, where one remains stationary, and
the other orbits around it, compressing the air.
Commonly used in HVAC systems for refrigeration and air
conditioning.
o Diaphragm Compressors:
Use a flexible diaphragm instead of a piston to compress air.
Suitable for applications where oil-free compression is
essential, like in medical or food industries.
Applications
Industrial: Factories, assembly lines, chemical plants, etc.
Commercial: Auto repair shops, construction sites, HVAC systems.
Personal/Residential: Home workshops, inflating tires, operating small
tools.
Each type of compressor is chosen based on the specific requirements of the
application, such as the need for oil-free air, the volume of air required, pressure
levels, and energy efficiency.