So what is an air compressor? A compressor is an industrial mechanical device that increases the pressure of inert gas by reducing its mass. There are different types of compressors namely positive displacement compressors, rotary screw compressors, scroll compressors, and centrifugal compressors, etc. An air compressor, just like a water pump, is used to increase the pressure of the inlet gas, which is usually air, by mixing it with a lower density of the fuel. An air compressor also uses a very high amount of force to apply pressure to a manifold which serves as a discharge pipe.
In the past, air compressors were mainly used for powering pneumatic tools such as nailers, saws, rasps, pliers, and cutters. Later on, air compressors were also used to power steam engines. Nowadays, air compressors are very essential for various applications in industries and residential homes.
There are mainly two major categories of compressors namely positive displacement compressors and rotary screw compressors. Positive displacement compressors are essentially used in industries where high pressure needs to be generated. Rotary screw compressors are very commonly seen in households. The mechanism of a positive displacement compressor works by increasing the velocity of the impeller while compressing a liquid. The liquid, in this case, is compressed in a case of a positive displacement compressor.
Air compressors are used in water tanks to boost the pressure of the liquids that are housed there. Water tanks can also be used to store clean water. Some examples of air compressors include water tanks, rocket engines, and pneumatic tools. Thus, no other mechanism or technique is as prolific as air compressors.
There are various places where air compressors can be used. They are often used in construction sites to increase manpower capacity. Air compressors are also used in households to increase their air capacity. Some of the places where air compressors can be used include car exhaust systems, outdoor patio heaters, and some types of lawnmowers. In order to increase the power output of compressors, one has to attach them to an electric motor. Thus, you can see how important air compressors have become these days.
Did you know that air compressors are also used by artists? One of the most popular places where artists use compressors is in their studios to power their instruments. This is because air compressors are the only power source available in these rooms. If you have ever been to a music studio, you would surely observe how sensitive and fragile certain musical instruments are. However, if they had not been equipped with air compressors, they would have long been damaged already.
Now, let us focus on what is an air compressor made of. Just like any other mechanical equipment, air compressors are usually made of different materials such as metal, fiberglass, and plastic. Metal compressors are usually used for industrial applications, while plastic compressors are more suited to domestic needs. Fiberglass and aluminum air compressors can work in extreme temperatures because they are able to change their shape when needed. Of course, metal compressors are much more expensive than the others but are far more reliable and durable.
So now that you know what is an air compressor, you might want to learn how to use one. First and foremost, you must always know the proper procedure to use compressors. Do not try to do tricks yourself if you do not know what you are doing. Once you have mastered the art of using compressors, then you can proceed to ask your friends and colleagues how to use them or you can even take one of those air compressors home to use.
