Working with

Compressed air systems

Compressed air systems provide air compressed typically from 75 to 125 psig in most applications. Compressor systems can be dedicated local systems, or central systems with distribution piping routed throughout the facility. When air is compressed, two immediate changes happen with the compressed air - higher temperatures and higher water content. It is not unusual for compressed air systems to be provided with air dryers to remove excess humidity, and filters/coolers. Storage tanks are typically provided to keep the system average pressures within a desired range while lowering the runtime of the compressor(s).

Typical system issues include:

1) Mismatch between compressor capacity and peak loads of end users

2) Inadequate dryer capacity, resulting in water in distribution piping

3) Older equipment using more electrical energy than modern replacements

4) Controls and instrumentation inadequate to match compressor response time versus end user demand

5) Setpoint for compressed air higher than required for operation, resulting in loss of energy efficiency