Understanding Air Compressor Discharge Pressure

If you’re an air compressor owner, you must be acquainted with some of the basics of your equipment. Discharge pressure is one of the most relevant notions that significantly impacts how your air compressor performs. VEMC is one of the leading air compressor dealers in Mumbai, and in this blog, we take you through all you need to know about discharge pressure.

Definition and importance of discharge pressure

Discharge pressure simply refers to the air pressure at the output end, that is, the discharge flange of your compressor. Maintaining optimum discharge pressure is necessary to ensure maximum levels of efficiency and productivity. However, higher than required discharge pressure could cause wastage of energy as well as damage to the system. This is because of the rise in temperature leading to metal fatigue of valves and thermal stress on lubricants.

Factors affecting discharge pressure

Discharge pressure of an air compressor is quite dynamic and a number of factors affect it. Some of these are:

  1. Size and speed of the condenser fan
  2. Size of the discharge line
  3. Condition of the condenser coil
  4. Leakage of air
  5. Cooling effect by oil, water , etc.
  6. Rotational speed in case of a screw compressor
  7. Voltage and frequency of the power grid
  8. Suction temperature and pressure

Impact of discharge pressure on system performance and efficiency

For starters, discharge pressure directly impacts the air flow of a compressor, and the simple Boyle’s Law equation can substantiate this. 

P1 x V1 = P2 x V2

However, compressed air isn’t free and with every unit rise in discharge pressure, there is a proportionate rise in energy consumption as well. In fact, it is widely believed that for every 2-psi increase in pressure, the energy consumption increases by 1 percent. So while increase in discharge pressure does boost your performance significantly, it also reduces the efficiency due to overconsumption of energy. Besides, higher levels of discharge pressure can also cause leaks in the system and reduce the distribution of the compressed air, while reducing the lifespan of the air compressor in the long run.

Optimal discharge pressure settings for different applications

It is quite clear that operating an air compressor and deciding the right discharge pressure requires  some amount of nuance. There is no on-size-fits-all for every application that you use your compressor for. Industrial applications usually require a pressure of 100-200 psi while if you’re using the compressor for domestic use, anything between 90-150 psi should be enough. Pneumatic tools like nail guns require a pressure of 90-100 psi while sandblasters and spray painters would typically need 120-150 psi.

Discharge pressure seems to be a straightforward notion. However, to ensure you get the maximum out of your air compressor without wasting energy, you must operate it at the right levels of discharge pressure. For more on air compressors, feel free to call us at 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. VEMC is the leading compressor dealer in Mumbai.

Air Compressor Dryers: Why They are Essential and How to Choose One

Air compressors find use in a number of industrial applications such as spray painting, packaging and drilling. But a common issue in air compressors is the accumulation of moisture which could be problematic for a number of reasons. This issue can be dealt with using the right kind of air dryer. VEMC is one of the leading air compressor dealers in Mumbai and in this blog, we tell you everything you need to know about air compressor dryers.

Why moisture in air compressors is problematic

Condensation of humidity inside an air compressor is a common issue and can appear in pipes, filters and other machinery. This can cause malfunction and breakdown of the equipment using the compressed air. Over the longer time horizon, it can be a cause for corrosion in the metallic parts. It is especially worrying if you are using the air compressor in packaging as the moisture can lead to the growth of moulds and cause spoilage of packaged items. To get rid of the moisture, air compressor dryers are essential accessories for your equipment.

Types of air dryers

Air compressors dryers are available in a number of variants each suited for a certain set of operations:

  1. Refrigerated air dryers: 

These air dryers condense the moisture in the air to very low temperatures, thus removing it and allowing the compressed air to proceed ahead to the attached tool.  These are available in cycling and non-cycling variants. The former supply variable cooling to match the demand while the latter supply constant cooling irrespective of the demand. Refrigerated air dryers are best suited for manufacturing and service applications but not for highly sensitive ones where even a little moisture can be problematic.

  1. Desiccant air dryers: 

These operate by desiccating the air using hygroscopic materials like silica gel or activated alumina. A twin-tower drying system is typically used both chambers of which contain desiccant materials. These air dryers are best suited for moisture-sensitive industrial applications such as healthcare, packaging, fabric manufacturing , etc.

  1. Membrane air dryers: 

These use specialised membranes to filter moisture out of the compressed air. The microtubules present in the membrane retain water while the dried air is allowed to pass through to the required application. These types of air dryers are best suited for applications such as food processing, dehumidification and gas separation. 

Choosing the right air dryer

Your choice of air dryer depends upon your specific needs as listed above and also your budget. For standardised functions, say in manufacturing, cost-effective air compressors like non-cyclic refrigerators are good enough. However, if your business applications are extremely moisture-sensitive, it is best to use slightly more expensive but highly effective desiccant air dryers.
For more information or guidance on the right air compressor dryers, feel free to call us on  022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. VEMC is one of the top-notch air compressor dealers in Mumbai, with vast industry experience and cutting-edge expertise.

The ABCs of Air Compressor Accessories

Air compressors are the go-to equipment to generate power for a number of tasks in industrial as well as domestic settings. These include spray painting, drilling, cleaning etc. However, air compressors can offer optimum performance only when the accessories are functioning well. VEMC is the leading air compressor supplier in Mumbai, and in this blog, we acquaint you with the ABCs of air compressor accessories.

Types of accessories

  1. Filters: 

Air compressor filters are important to remove dust and debris and push out only clean compressed air. Their role is even more important in case you are using your air compressor in sensitive work environments like food processing. Rotary screw air compressors have three filters: an oil filter, an inlet filter and air/oil separator. While on an average, filters must be replaced every 2000 hours of service, they may need even more frequent replacement in dirtier conditions. Replacement helps prevent the oil from becoming contaminated and also the premature failure of the parts.

  1. Regulators: 

Air compressor regulators help control the air pressure in a pneumatic system. This ensures that the air compressor operates safely and at optimum levels of efficiency. 

  • General purpose regulators: These are best suited for use in industrial settings and operate above the atmospheric pressure.
  • High pressure regulators: These have an inlet pressure of 1000 psi.
  • Dual stage regulators: In these regulators, the liquid flows through a succession of chambers to deliver constant pressure.
  • Point-of-use regulators: These regulators are attached at or near a tool such as a pneumatic drill.

3. Lubricators: 

Air compressor lubricators help reduce friction between parts of an air compressor and dissipate the extra heat generated. An air compressor lubrication system comprises of a crankcase sump, strainer, filter and cylinder lubricator. The lubricating oil is contained in the compressor crankcase. A preset mark on the crankcase indicates the level of lubricating oil that must be present in it and thus helps at the time of replenishment. 

4. Valves: 

Air compressor valves control the in and out-flow of air or oil in a compressor.

  • Intake valve: As the name suggests, an intake valve enables the air to enter the compressor. This air is then directed to the compressor head where it is compressed.
  • Minimum pressure valve: It is located at the outlet above the oil-gas separator. It acts as a buffer to control the flow rate of the gas and prevent damage due to high-speed airflow.
  • Safety valve: This is important for the safety of the air compressor as it discharges some gas as soon as the pressure exceeds a certain level.

Choosing the right accessories

If you are looking for accessories for your air compressor, make sure you only choose the original ones. Only original accessories can guarantee optimum performance and a long service life. For more on air compressor accessories, get in touch with VEMC by calling on 022 43436655 or emailing us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We are the leading air compressor dealers in Mumbai.

The Role of Pumps and Air Compressors in the Circular Economy

As opposed to a linear economy which proceeds through the stages of ‘take-make-waste’, a circular economy is restorative and regenerative. The economic activity in a circular economy builds and rebuilds the overall health of the system. It aims at decoupling growth from the consumption of finite resources. The three most significant features of a circular economy are resource efficiency, waste reduction and closed-loop systems. A circular economy offers enduring benefits like environmental sustainability, economic growth and job creation.

VEMC is the leading air compressor dealer in Mumbai, and in this blog we take you through the role of pumps and air compressors in a circular economy.

Industries that rely on pumps and air compressors

A range of industries such as manufacturing, wastewater treatment and energy production rely on water pumps and air compressors. Here are some of the major functions performed by them:

By pumps:

  1. Transporting fluids such as chemicals, oil, water etc. from one place to another
  2. Removing pollutants and contaminants from fluids
  3. Providing the necessary pressure required for industrial processes
  4. Mixing and blending liquids

By air compressors:

  1. Pushing and propelling gases through pipelines
  2. Blow cleaning and spray painting operations
  3. Powering pneumatic tools such as drills, abrasive blast equipment etc.
  4. Shifting AC refrigerants

All the above-mentioned functions consume energy. To create and sustain a circular economy, it is important that energy efficient pumps and compressors are used, so that operations are performed at peak levels without wastage of energy.

Recycling and remanufacturing pumps and air compressors

Air compressors and pumps that are in use for a very long time will inevitably undergo wear and tear. This will affect their performance and energy efficiency. However, if these equipment are procured from trusted manufacturers like VEMC, you can expect longevity and consistent performance. This is not just great for your business as it avoids sudden breakdowns, loss of business and unexpected capex investments, but also for the circular economy as it avoids wastage of resources and lowers the carbon footprint. Besides, techniques like retrofitting can offer a second life to your equipment while enhancing their performance and efficiency.

Role of compressors and pumps in a circular economy

One of the most important aims of a circular economy is to reduce wastage and lifespan costs of equipment. This is ensured in three main ways:

  • Products like compressors and pumps which are designed keeping the concept of circular economy in mind, aim to extract maximum value out of resources. As soon as the products reach the end of their service life, their parts are salvaged and re-processed to leave as little waste as possible. 
  • Product design also ensures that as little wastage of material during operations (through friction) takes place. The simplicity of design to avoid as much metal-to-metal contact can help reduce lifetime costs of the equipment significantly. 
  • The product designs also ensure minimal consumption of energy and enhanced operational efficiency. This contributes to lower carbon footprint and energy savings throughout the service life of the product.

For more on how VEMC promotes the idea of circular economy through its air compressors and pumps, call us on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We are the leading pump and air compressor dealers in Mumbai.