Plant Services - January 2008 - (Page 34) Knowing operating characteristics and physical limitations will help you select the best machine for your plant By Niff Ambrosino ost industrial air compressors are supplied as self-contained packages that include drive motor, inlet filter, mechanical and electrical controls, and various optional accessories. Depending on the type and size of air compressor, the package might be mounted on an air receiver. Air compressors are classified either as positive-displacement or dynamic. ating principle for positive-displacement compressors is either reciprocating or rotary. Reciprocating type Positive-displacement compressors Air is drawn into an enclosed chamber where the volume is reduced by mechanical means, causing the pressure within to rise and forcing the air into the system. A simple example of a positive-displacement compressor is the hand pump for inflating tires. The oper34 A reciprocating compressor uses a moving piston in an enclosed cylinder. In a single-acting design, compression takes place on just one side of the piston and produces air on only one stroke per revolution. Double-acting compressors develop compression on both sides of the piston and produce air on two strokes per crankshaft revolution. This results in almost twice the capacity of a single-acting design of identical bore and stroke. In either case, the compressor might be air or water-cooled, lubricated or non-lubricated. January 2008 www.PLANTSERVICES.com http://www.PLANTSERVICES.com
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