Summative Report Air Compressors

Republic of the Philippines Cebu
Technological University-Main
Campus
M.J. Cuenco Avenue Corner R.
Palma St., Cebu City
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Name: Cliford R. Alegada M.E Laboratory 3

Course/Yr. & Sec.: BSME 4-2 Instructor: Engr. Aivan Saberon
Summative Report: Air Compressors

INTRODUCTION TO COMPRESSED AIR
Introduction:
Compressed air is a form of stored

energy created when air is pressurized
within a container or system. This
pressurization increases the air’s
density, allowing it to perform various
tasks such as powering tools and
machinery, operating pneumatic systems,
and even serving as a source of energy
for certain industrial processes.
Compressed air is versatile, clean, and
relatively easy to transport, making it
a popular choice in many industries for a wide range of applications.
How Can Air generate power using compressed air?
Compressed air can be used to generate power through various

methods, such as compressed air energy storage (CAES) and pneumatic
power systems. In CAES, air is compressed and stored in underground
caverns or tanks, then released to drive turbines and generate
electricity during peak demand periods. Pneumatic power systems use
compressed air to drive pistons, which in turn can be connected to
generators to produce electricity. These methods offer energy storage
and efficient power generation options, particularly in conjunction with
renewable energy sources.
Advantages of Air power
• Clean and Environmentally Friendly: Compressed air power systems

produce no emissions at the point of use, making them
environmentally friendly alternatives to fossil fuel-powered
engines.
• Versatility: Compressed air power can be used in various

applications, including industrial machinery, pneumatic tools,
transportation systems, and energy storage.
• Safety: Compressed air systems can operate safely in hazardous

environments, as they don’t generate sparks and are not prone to
combustion.
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• Efficiency: Compressed air power systems can be highly efficient,

especially when integrated with energy recovery systems or used in
conjunction with renewable energy sources like wind or solar power.
• Reliability: Compressed air systems have fewer moving parts

compared to other power systems, resulting in lower maintenance
requirements and increased reliability.
• Instant Power: Compressed air systems can provide instant power

without the need for warm-up time, making them suitable for
applications where quick response times are essential.
Air Flow Requirements
The airflow requirement of an air compressor depends on the

specific application and the tools or machinery it will be powering. To
determine the airflow requirement for a specific application, it’s
essential to consult the equipment manufacturer’s specifications and
consider the factors mentioned above. Additionally, conducting a
thorough assessment of the intended usage and operating conditions can
help ensure the air compressor selected meets the necessary airflow
demands.
Calculating air flow requirements
• Determine Required Air Pressure: Identify the minimum and maximum

operating pressures needed for your application. This information
is usually provided by the equipment manufacturer or can be
determined based on the tools or machinery being used.
• Determine Air Consumption: Determine the air consumption (in cubic

feet per minute, CFM) of each pneumatic tool or equipment that will
be powered by the air compressor. This information is typically
provided by the manufacturer or can be measured using a flow meter.
• Consider Duty Cycle: Determine the duty cycle of each tool or

equipment, which represents the percentage of time the tool will
be operating. For continuous-duty applications, the duty cycle is
100%.
• Calculate Total Air Flow: Multiply the air consumption of each tool
or equipment by its duty cycle, then sum up the results to find
the total air flow requirement.
• Total Air Flow (CFM) = (Air Consumption Tool 1 × Duty Cycle Tool
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1) + (Air Consumption Tool 2 × Duty Cycle Tool 2)
• Add Safety Margin: To account for any unexpected increases in

demand or system inefficiencies, it’s recommended to include a
safety margin. Typically, a safety margin of 10-20% is added to
the calculated total air flow.
• Select an Air Compressor: Once you have determined the total air
flow requirement, select an air compressor that can supply at least
this amount of airflow at the required pressure levels. Be sure to
consider factors such as compressor efficiency, tank size, and duty
cycle when making your selection.
Air consumption chart for industrial types tools
Air consumption charts

for industrial tools
provide information
about the amount of
compressed air
required by different
pneumatic tools to
operate effectively.
These charts typically
list various tools
along with their
corresponding air
consumption rates,
often measured in
terms of cubic feet
per minute (CFM) or
liters per minute
(LPM).
Understanding these
charts is crucial for
proper selection of
air compressors and
sizing of air
distribution systems
in industrial
settings. By referring
to these charts,
engineers and
operators can ensure
that the air supply system can meet the demands of the tools without
being under or over-sized.
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Air Consumption chart for automotive service shop
An air consumption chart for

an automotive service shop
typically outlines the air
requirements (usually in
cubic feet per minute, CFM)
of various pneumatic tools
and equipment used in the
shop, such as air wrenches,
grinders, sanders, spray
guns, etc.
It helps shop owners or

technicians determine the
total air capacity needed for
the tools they use
simultaneously or
sequentially. This
information is crucial for
selecting the appropriate
size and capacity of air
compressors and related
equipment to ensure efficient
operation without overloading
the system or causing
pressure drops that affect tool performance.
Air Flow chart
The chart often shows the direction of airflow, the size and capacity
of components, pressure levels at different points, and any potential
branches or loops in the system. It helps visualize how air moves through
the system and identifies potential bottlenecks, pressure drops, or
inefficiencies.
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Selecting the proper air compressor to use with an air cylinder
Required Air Pressure: Determine the pressure requirements of the air

cylinder. This will help you choose a compressor with an output pressure
that matches or exceeds the cylinder’s operating pressure.
Air Flow Rate (CFM): Calculate the airflow rate needed to operate the
cylinder effectively. Consider factors such as cylinder size, stroke
length, operating frequency, and any additional pneumatic devices
connected to the system. Choose a compressor with a CFM rating that
meets or exceeds this requirement.
Duty Cycle: Consider the duty cycle of the compressor, which indicates
the amount of time it can run continuously without overheating. For
continuous or heavy-duty applications, choose a compressor with a higher
duty cycle to prevent overheating and premature wear.
Tank Size: Determine whether a compressor with an air tank is necessary

based on the cylinder’s air consumption pattern. A larger tank can
provide a reserve of compressed air, reducing the workload on the
compressor and ensuring consistent pressure delivery, especially for
intermittent use.
Power Source: Consider the available power source (electric, gasoline,

diesel) and match it with the compressor’s requirements. Ensure the
compressor can be powered safely in your environment.
Portability: If mobility is important, consider the size, weight, and

portability features of the compressor, especially if it needs to be
moved between workstations or job sites.
Noise Level: Evaluate the noise level of the compressor, especially if

it will be used in a noise-sensitive environment such as a workshop or
garage. Choose a compressor with a noise level that complies with
workplace regulations and minimizes disturbance to nearby activities.
Variability of flow requirements
Variability of flow requirements is crucial for selecting and

sizing air compressors and other pneumatic components to meet the
dynamic needs of the system effectively. It involves considering factors
such as peak demand, duty cycles, and potential future growth to ensure
that the pneumatic system can handle fluctuations in airflow demand
while maintaining efficiency and reliability. Regular monitoring and
adjustment of airflow requirements can help optimize system performance
and minimize energy consumption.
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Pressure Drop
Pressure drop is a critical consideration in the design and operation

of pneumatic systems, as it directly impacts system performance and
efficiency. Excessive pressure drop can lead to reduced flow rates,
diminished tool performance, and increased energy consumption by the
air compressor. Therefore, engineers and technicians must carefully
analyze and minimize pressure drop by selecting appropriate components,
optimizing system layouts, and maintaining proper system conditions.
Air distribution and system layout
By carefully planning
and designing the air
distribution and system
layout, engineers and
technicians can create
pneumatic systems that
deliver reliable,
efficient, and safe
operation to meet the
specific needs of their
applications. Regular
maintenance and periodic
evaluation of system
performance help ensure
continued optimal
operation and identify
opportunities for
optimization or
improvement.
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Understanding the impact of various piping transitions on pressure drop

is crucial for designing and optimizing pneumatic systems to ensure
efficient operation and maintain desired performance levels. Engineers
and technicians often use calculations, simulations, and empirical data
to evaluate pressure drop and select appropriate components and layouts
for their specific applications.
Compressor room location
By carefully considering these factors, you can select an

appropriate location for the compressor room that promotes efficient
operation, ensures worker safety, and minimizes disruptions to other
activities within the facility. Consulting with experienced
professionals, such as HVAC engineers and safety specialists, can help
ensure the optimal design and layout of the compressor room.
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a centralized system layout

offers numerous advantages
in terms of efficiency,
reliability, maintenance,
and control, making it a
preferred choice for many
industrial applications.
However, proper planning,
design, and implementation
are essential to ensure the
centralized system meets
the specific needs and
requirements of the
facility. Consulting with
experienced engineers or
pneumatic system
specialists can help
optimize the design and
layout for maximum
effectiveness.
Decentralized layouts offer

numerous advantages, they
also require careful
planning and coordination to
ensure proper sizing,
placement, and integration
of compressors and
associated equipment.
Factors such as airflow
requirements, space
constraints, energy
efficiency goals, and future
expansion plans should be
considered when designing a
decentralized pneumatic
system. Consulting with
pneumatic system
optimize the layout and
configuration for maximum effectiveness in meeting the specific needs
of the facility.
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Distribution piping layout
Best practices and

considerations, you can
design a distribution
piping layout that
optimizes airflow,
minimizes pressure drop,
and ensures efficient
operation of pneumatic
equipment within your
facility. Consulting with
pneumatic system
ensure that the layout
meets the specific needs
and requirements of your
application.
By implementing these
strategies for piping
optimization, you can ensure
that your pneumatic system
operates efficiently,
reliably, and cost-
effectively, meeting the
specific needs and
requirements of your
application. Consulting with
pneumatic system specialists
can help ensure that the
piping network is designed and
optimized to achieve optimal
performance and longevity.
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Piping best practice
When it comes to piping, adhering to best practices ensures

efficient and maintainable code. Firstly, maintain clarity by breaking
down complex pipelines into smaller, understandable steps, using
comments where necessary. Prioritize readability over brevity to enhance
comprehension for future developers. Secondly, choose appropriate tools
and libraries for each stage of the pipeline, considering factors like
performance, compatibility, and community support. Keep pipelines
modular and reusable, facilitating easy updates and modifications.
Additionally, implement error handling and logging throughout the
pipeline to diagnose issues promptly. Test pipelines thoroughly,
including edge cases, to ensure reliability and robustness. Finally,
document the pipeline architecture, input/output formats, and
dependencies comprehensively to aid collaboration and troubleshooting.
By following these best practices, pipelining becomes a streamlined and
effective process, empowering teams to handle complex data
transformations with confidence.
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Control Storage
Controlling storage in a compressor involves managing the flow of

compressed air efficiently to optimize performance and minimize energy
consumption. One key aspect is maintaining appropriate storage capacity
relative to demand. This entails sizing the storage tank adequately to
accommodate fluctuations in air usage while preventing excessive cycling
of the compressor. Additionally, employing control strategies such as
load/unload or variable speed drives helps match compressor output to
demand, reducing energy waste during low-demand periods. Implementing
proper air treatment, including moisture removal and filtration,
preserves the integrity of stored air and prolongs equipment lifespan.
Regular maintenance, including inspection of storage vessels and
monitoring of pressure levels, ensures optimal performance and safety.
By effectively managing storage in a compressor system, organizations
can enhance productivity, reduce operating costs, and extend equipment
longevity.
General Storage
General storage for a compressor typically involves the use of an

air receiver tank. These tanks serve multiple purposes within a
compressed air system. Firstly, they act as a buffer, storing compressed
air to meet sudden surges in demand, thus reducing the load on the
compressor during peak usage periods. Secondly, they help stabilize
pressure fluctuations by providing a consistent supply of compressed
air to downstream equipment. Additionally, air receiver tanks aid in
moisture removal, allowing condensation to settle and be drained from
the system before reaching sensitive equipment. Properly sized storage
tanks also contribute to energy efficiency by reducing the frequency of
compressor cycling and allowing for more efficient operation,
particularly in systems with variable demand. Regular maintenance,
including inspections for leaks and corrosion, is essential to ensure
the safe and effective operation of compressor storage tanks.
Dedicated Storage
Dedicated storage tanks provide a space for condensation to collect

and be drained from the system, preventing moisture-related issues such
as corrosion and contamination in downstream equipment.
Proper sizing of dedicated storage is essential to ensure optimal

performance. Factors such as the compressor’s capacity, the variability
of air demand, and the required pressure levels must be taken into
account when determining the appropriate size of the storage vessel.
Regular maintenance and inspection of the storage tank are also
important to ensure safety, prevent leaks, and extend the lifespan of
the equipment.
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Receiver Sizing
Receiver sizing for a compressor is crucial for ensuring optimal

performance and efficiency of the compressed air system. The size of
the receiver tank depends on several factors, including the compressor’s
capacity, the variability of air demand, and the desired pressure
levels.
One common guideline for sizing a receiver tank is to have a volume of

at least 4-6 times the compressor’s CFM (cubic feet per minute) output.
This allows the receiver to store enough compressed air to meet short-
term peak demand without requiring the compressor to cycle frequently.
➢ Reciprocating Air compressors
A reciprocating air compressor is a type of compressor that uses a

piston within a cylinder to compress air. The piston moves back
and forth (reciprocates), creating changes in pressure to draw in
and compress air. This compression process is commonly used in
various applications, including powering pneumatic tools and
systems.
• Single – Acting
A single-acting air compressor compresses air during one

stroke of the piston, delivering compressed air in one
direction. It’s simpler and cost-effective compared to double-
acting compressors, but it may have lower efficiency and
output.
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• Double Acting
A double-acting air compressor compresses air during both the

up and down strokes of the piston, providing more efficiency
and higher output compared to single-acting compressors. This
design enhances airflow and is commonly used for industrial
applications requiring greater compressed air capacity.
➢ Diaphragm
A diaphragm air compressor uses a flexible diaphragm to compress

air. The diaphragm moves back and forth, creating changes in air
volume and pressure. These compressors are often chosen for
applications requiring oil-free and contaminant-free compressed
air, such as in medical equipment or certain laboratory settings.
➢ Rotary Screw Compressor
A rotary screw compressor is a type of positive displacement

compressor that uses two intermeshing helical rotors to compress
air. As the rotors turn, they reduce the volume of air, increasing
its pressure. These compressors are commonly used in industrial
settings for their reliability, efficiency, and continuous
operation.
➢ Rotary Vane Compressors
A rotary vane compressor utilizes a rotor with vanes that slide in

and out of slots to compress air. As the rotor turns, the volume
of the compression chamber decreases, leading to air compression.
These compressors are known for their reliability, quiet operation,
and are suitable for various applications, including small
industrial setups and automotive tools.
➢ Liquid Ring Compressors
A liquid ring compressor is a type of positive displacement

compressor that uses a liquid (usually water) to create a
compression seal. It works by trapping and compressing gas between
the rotor and the liquid ring. These compressors are often used in
applications where the compression of wet or saturated gases is
required, such as in the chemical and petrochemical industries.
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➢ Scroll Compressors
A scroll compressor is a type of positive displacement compressor

that uses spiral or scroll-shaped orbiting and fixed scrolls to
compress air. As the orbiting scroll moves in a circular motion,
it traps and compresses the air between the scrolls, leading to
increased pressure. Scroll compressors are known for their quiet
operation, high efficiency, and are commonly used in applications
like air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
➢ Lobe Compressors
A lobe compressor, also known as a Roots-type or rotary lobe

compressor, consists of two counter-rotating lobes that trap and
transport air through the compressor. The lobes do not touch,
creating chambers for air to move through. Lobe compressors are
known for their ability to deliver a constant airflow and are often
used in applications where a continuous and pulsation-free air
supply is crucial, such as wastewater treatment and pneumatic
conveying systems.
➢ Centrifugal Compressors
A centrifugal compressor is a dynamic type of compressor that uses

a rotating impeller to accelerate air and then converts the kinetic
energy into potential energy by slowing the air down in a diffuser.
This process increases the air pressure. Centrifugal compressors
are commonly employed in industrial settings, such as in gas
turbines, air conditioning systems, and certain chemical processes.
➢ Axial Compressors
An axial compressor is a type of dynamic compressor that uses a

series of rotating and stationary blades to compress air in an
axial (parallel to the shaft) direction. As the air passes through
the compressor, the rotating blades accelerate it, and the
stationary blades (stators) help further increase the pressure.
Axial compressors are commonly found in aircraft engines, gas
turbines, and certain industrial applications where a continuous
and efficient airflow is essential.
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➢ Air dryers
An air dryer is a device used to remove moisture or humidity from

compressed air. It helps prevent corrosion, damage to pneumatic
equipment, and ensures the proper functioning of air-operated
systems. There are various types of air dryers, including
refrigerated dryers, desiccant dryers, and membrane dryers, each
with its own method of removing moisture from compressed air.
➢ Air tank
An air tank or receiver is a storage vessel used to store compressed

air from a compressor system. It helps stabilize pressure
variations, provides a reserve of compressed air during peak
demand, and assists in moisture separation. Air tanks are essential
in various pneumatic systems, offering a buffer to accommodate
fluctuations in air demand.
➢ Free Air deliver
The free air delivery (FAD) of a compressor is a measure of the

actual volume of compressed air it can deliver at the inlet
conditions (usually expressed in cubic feet per minute or cubic
meters per minute) and is typically measured at standard
atmospheric conditions.
➢ Leak Detection
Leak detection refers to the process of identifying and locating

leaks in a system, whether it’s a water, gas, or air system. In
the context of compressed air systems, detecting and fixing leaks
is crucial for maintaining efficiency and reducing energy costs.
Common methods for compressed air leak detection include:
• Ultrasonic Detection: Using ultrasonic listening devices to

pick up the high-frequency sounds produced by air leaks.
• Visual Inspection: Physically inspecting the system for

audible hissing sounds, unusual vibrations, or visible signs
of leaks like escaping air or oil stains.
• Pressure Drop Measurement: Monitoring the pressure drop in

the system when it’s not in use to identify leaks.
• Thermal Imaging: Using infrared cameras to detect temperature

differences caused by air leaks.
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Regular leak detection and prompt repairs can lead to significant

energy savings and improve the overall efficiency of compressed
air systems.
➢ Piping Pressure Drop
Piping pressure drop refers to the decrease in pressure that occurs

as a fluid (such as air or water) flows through a piping system.
This drop in pressure is influenced by factors such as pipe length,
diameter, roughness, bends, and fittings. The pressure drop is
typically expressed in terms of pressure loss per unit length or
as a total pressure drop across a certain section of the piping
system.
Engineers often use various methods and equations to calculate

pressure drop in piping systems, taking into account factors like
Reynolds number, flow velocity, and the characteristics of the
fluid. Understanding and minimizing pressure drop is crucial for
maintaining adequate flow rates and ensuring that equipment
receives the required pressure.
➢ Density and altitude
The density of air decreases with an increase in altitude. As you

go higher in the Earth’s atmosphere, there are fewer air molecules
present, leading to lower air density. The relationship between
air density and altitude can be described by the barometric
formula.
In general terms:
At lower altitudes (closer to sea level), the air is denser.

At higher altitudes, such as in mountainous regions or at high
elevations, the air is less dense.
The decrease in air density with altitude has implications for
various phenomena, including changes in atmospheric pressure,
temperature, and the performance of aircraft engines.

Summative Report Air Compressors

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Republic of the Philippines Cebu

Name: Cliford R. Alegada M.E Laboratory 3

Summative Report: Air Compressors

Compressed air is a form of stored

How Can Air generate power using compressed air?

Compressed air can be used to generate power through various

Advantages of Air power

• Clean and Environmentally Friendly: Compressed air power systems

• Versatility: Compressed air power can be used in various

• Safety: Compressed air systems can operate safely in hazardous

• Efficiency: Compressed air power systems can be highly efficient,

• Reliability: Compressed air systems have fewer moving parts

• Instant Power: Compressed air systems can provide instant power

Air Flow Requirements

The airflow requirement of an air compressor depends on the

Calculating air flow requirements

• Determine Required Air Pressure: Identify the minimum and maximum

• Determine Air Consumption: Determine the air consumption (in cubic

• Consider Duty Cycle: Determine the duty cycle of each tool or

1) + (Air Consumption Tool 2 × Duty Cycle Tool 2)

• Add Safety Margin: To account for any unexpected increases in

Air consumption chart for industrial types tools

Air consumption charts

Air Consumption chart for automotive service shop

An air consumption chart for

It helps shop owners or

Air Flow chart

Selecting the proper air compressor to use with an air cylinder

Required Air Pressure: Determine the pressure requirements of the air

Tank Size: Determine whether a compressor with an air tank is necessary

Power Source: Consider the available power source (electric, gasoline,

Portability: If mobility is important, consider the size, weight, and

Noise Level: Evaluate the noise level of the compressor, especially if

Variability of flow requirements

Variability of flow requirements is crucial for selecting and

Pressure drop is a critical consideration in the design and operation

Air distribution and system layout

Understanding the impact of various piping transitions on pressure drop

Compressor room location

By carefully considering these factors, you can select an

a centralized system layout

Decentralized layouts offer

Distribution piping layout

Best practices and

Piping best practice

When it comes to piping, adhering to best practices ensures

Controlling storage in a compressor involves managing the flow of

General storage for a compressor typically involves the use of an

Dedicated storage tanks provide a space for condensation to collect

Proper sizing of dedicated storage is essential to ensure optimal

Receiver sizing for a compressor is crucial for ensuring optimal

One common guideline for sizing a receiver tank is to have a volume of

➢ Reciprocating Air compressors

A reciprocating air compressor is a type of compressor that uses a

A single-acting air compressor compresses air during one

A double-acting air compressor compresses air during both the

A diaphragm air compressor uses a flexible diaphragm to compress

➢ Rotary Screw Compressor