Air Compressors Key Terms

Distinguish between the various types of compressors and understand some important compressor parts

Air compressors supply air that is compressed and stored in a tank. Tank size varies depending on function: larger tanks provide air for longer periods of time for running air tools or supplying oxygen, while smaller compressor tanks pump up tires, blow up balloons, or keep scuba divers alive. Compressors also run air conditioning systems, refrigerators, and various types of engines. Understand more about the air compressor industry by learning a few key terms.

 

Rotary screw compressors

Rotary screw compressors push air into a void between two screws. To reduce air volume, the operator turns the screw, which increases the air pressure.
Try: Blackmer describes the function of screw compressors and includes photographs.

Rotary sliding vane compressors

The rotary sliding vane compressor works by means of a rotating shaft covered in sliding vanes that control the compressor's pumping capacity. These efficient compressors are typically air- or water-cooled.
Try: Integrated Publishing supplies diagrams and explains how rotary sliding vane compressors work. Northey Technologies describes the different types of rotary vane compressors.

Piston compressors or reciprocating compressors

A crankshaft drives the pistons in a reciprocating compressor. The reciprocating compressor received its name because of the piston's back-and-forth movement inside the cylinder. In this positive-displacement compressor, the pistons deliver gases at high pressure.
Try: Noria Corporation explains the basic design of reciprocating compressors and provides pictures and diagrams to show how they work.

Centrifugal compressors or radial compressors

The blades of a centrifugal compressor spin like a propeller, but they are closer together. These compressors are also called radial compressors because they force the air to flow radially.
Try: NASA describes how centrifugal compressors work.

Variable speed drive (VSD) air compressor

A variable speed drive (VSD) air compressor saves energy because it uses a special drive to control the speed. Although they cost more and react more negatively to moisture and heat than other compressors, VSDs deliver steadier pressure and lessen power surges.
Try: Advantage Business Media explains the advantages of the variable-speed air compressor.

Air compressor unloader valve

The unloader valve releases the air left after use so that the tank is not under excessive pressure. Releasing this pressure also reduces the load for the engine when it starts up.
Try: Compressedair describes the function of the air compressor unloader valve and its features. ABOUT-air-compressors.com provides a simple explanation of the unloader valve operation.

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