An air compressor is a system designed to transfer energy, usually from an electric motor, diesel engine, or gasoline engine, and transform it into potential energy within pressurized air. This is done by gradually pushing more and more air into a confined storage space, increasing the pressure until a set maximum is reached. The compressed air can then be stored until used and released, providing kinetic energy derived from the decreased pressure within the tank. Once pressure falls to its bottom limit, the air compressor turns back on to replenish the storage space.

From powering airbrushes to inflating car tires, air compressors serve a multitude of purposes. Some common applications of this technology include:

• To operate machinery including jackhammers, drills, impact wrenches, and sandblasters that are powered by electricity

Filling gas cylinders, manipulating air brakes for heavy trucks, and powering internal combustion engines are only a few common applications for air. We can also observe its use in HVAC systems, scuba diving, together with air-powered vehicles and of course, the automotive industry’s most prominent feature; airbags. To learn more about how airbags function in your vehicles, keep reading.

Airbags deploy in a fantastic fraction of time, often in just the blink of an eye – far less than 1/20th of a second. Constructed out of a tear-resistant, woven fabric, the life-saving mechanism is then charged with nitrogen gas generated from a chemical concoction. This special combination consists of sodium azide (NaN3) and potassium nitrate (KNO3) stored in disparate sections within the airbag inflator. When the impact sensor triggers the deployment of the airbag, a small explosive charge sets off a chemical reaction which rapidly bloats the airbag with nitrogen gas.

The entire inflation process is rapid, lasting just a fraction of a second. During this time, the bag will progressively fill with nitrogen gas, and it won’t deflate until the energy from impact has been attenuated. Designed for the span of the entire collision, the deflation is purposely drawn out so that your airbag will be present to provide protection.

Inflating airbags requires a non-reactive and combustible gas, and nitrogen serves this purpose perfectly. Its inert nature ensures that no chemical reaction will occur, which could be hazardous. Additionally, the absence of flammability adds a further layer of safety, so the inflation process does not have any risks of igniting.

The Phenomenon of Air Compression and its Effects

Although they may vary in size and form, the fundamental concept behind all air compressors is the same. The most common model, the piston type, takes a cylinder housing a piston connected to a crankshaft, and as the shaft rotates – forcing the piston up and down – it reduces the volume of its air chamber to construct higher air pressure.

The cylinder on the piston inhales air on its descent and compresses it when rising again. What exits the chamber through an exhaust valve is air at a pressure much higher than the usual atmosphere pressure. The emission can be harnessed to power devices, pump tires, or energize an assemblage of other tools.

Instead of employing a singular piston like its counterpart, the rotary screw air compressor features two meshed rotors that trap air as they rotate, thereby compressing it. This model boasts a number of noteworthy advantages; its operability is extended and enables it to dodge heating issues more effectively, while also maintaining an augment in efficiency when compared to traditional piston air compressors.

Maximizing Output with Compressed Air

Efficiency is a measure of how effectively an air compressor is able to convert input energy into useful output energy, and rotary screw air compressors come out on top, boasting efficiencies of up to 90%. On the other hand, piston air compressors can provide a serviceable result with an efficiency of between 60-70%.

An air compressor’s efficiency is paramount, for it determines how much energy is necessary to make it work. A more efficient compressor equals less energy used, meaning a lower power bill at the end of the month.

Ensuring Proper Care for Your Air Compressor

To ensure your air compressor operates optimally, it is of utmost importance that you attend to its maintenance demands. This includes changing its oil on a regular basis – a simple yet significant step in helping your appliance stay in good shape. Additionally, other elements such as the bearings, seals, and filters must be checked from time to time for indication of wear and tear. Cleaning any dust build up and ensuring all connectors and hoses are secured properly are also essential steps to keep your compressor functional.