Why ELGI’s Air Alert is a Game-Changer for Air Compressor Users

ELGi air compressor dealers in Mumbai

Air compressors produce compressed air that provides energy to power various devices or machines in industries. Due to the enormous amount of energy they produce, air compressors find application in a variety of industries and operations. Air compressors are useful tools with hefty investment and owners naturally want them to last long. With ELGi’s Air~Alert system in place, owners can monitor the various parameters of their compressors regularly, provide recommendations, and avoid downtime. We are the leading ELGi air compressor dealers in Mumbai and in this blog we tell you why ELGi’s Air~Alert is a game-changer for air compressor users.

Why have Air Alert systems

Air~Alert systems basically gather information on all parameters from the air compressor. This information is later used for in-depth analysis and improvement. The intelligent insights that the gathered data provides helps users plan and schedule maintenance and enhance the efficiency of their air compressor.

How Air~Alert works

The air compressor operational and performance data is acquired from the compressor controller, encrypted and sent to secure servers. The data is then processed using smart algorithms to come up with predictions, actionable alerts, reports, and trends. These are sent to the user’s dashboard and as text messages. 

3 modules are involved in this entire process: Data collection & storage, failure prediction and detection, and alerts & reports. In the first module, data is gathered, stored, and organized. The second module predicts if the compressor will fail in the future. In the third module, alerts and reports are turned into actionable insights.

User benefits

ELGi Air~Alert system is a perfect fit for Industry 4.0. It is powered by technologies like AI and IoT which ensure the insights are timely, accurate, and actionable. It has some outstanding benefits for users:

1. With Air~Alert, users are kept informed about critical information that helps maintain the health of the compressor. For instance, it tells the users what the optimum pressure band for a particular task is. Likewise, it helps the users in leak detection which reduces the wastage of electricity.

2. Various industries have successfully tested the Air~Alert system. In a pipe company, Air~Alert contributed about 40% savings to the company. In the textile industry, it helps identify choked filters by detecting abnormal pressure readings.

3. Air~Alert notifies users ahead of time about upcoming service and maintenance schedules. This reduces the possibilities of breakdown. It can also forecast potential faults and failures in advance minimizing downtime and unplanned repair costs.

4. The Air~Alert system provides 24/7 monitoring of parameters such as usage, discharge pressure, oil temperature, total running hours, VFD speed, etc. The live data is streamed to users’ PCs, laptops, or smartphones and can be accessed from anywhere through a user-friendly dashboard.

For more information on the ELGi Air~Alert system, get in touch with VEMC by calling 022 43436655 or emailing us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We are the leading ELGi air compressor dealers in Mumbai. Whether you’re looking for ELGi reciprocating compressor or a screw compressor, we have you covered.

How Using Non-Genuine Spares Is Impacting the Health of the Air Compressor

air compressor dealers in Mumbai

Air compressors at some point will need the replacement of some parts to make them run efficiently. Using non-genuine spares may seem like a low-priced quick fix. But in reality, these could end up costing much more in terms of health, efficiency, productivity, and life-span of the compressor. As air compressor dealers in Mumbai will tell you, using original spare parts will make you more relaxed against such issues. VEMC is the leading ELGi compressor dealer in Mumbai. 

We tell you how using non-genuine spares is impacting the health of your air compressor.

Effects of using non-genuine spares

  1. Lower performance and durability: Genuine spares are designed as per the specifications of the air compressor. This reduces the risks of failure and a drop in productivity. However, a non-genuine spare will reduce not just performance but also the lifespan or durability due to the high likelihood of incompatibility.
  2. Safety issues for users: Every compressor dealer will warn you of the safety issues that non-genuine spares could create. These could also lead to poorer compliance with environmental and occupational security. Fire hazards and risks to user health are huge possibilities as well.
  3. Poor efficiency: While non-genuine spaes may come at much lower prices, they in the long run could cost much more due to suboptimal efficiency levels. Besides more downtime, interruptions in production and the need for frequent repairs could cost your business further. All of this ends up making non-genuine spares a rather costly deal.
  4. Lower quality standards: Reliability is the most important feature of any equipment. However, spares with dubious quality standards could affect your air compressor’s overall health, and reduce its reliability. Original spares on the other hand go through stringent endurance tests and quality inspections.
  5. Warranty: Using non-genuine parts in your compressor could turn the warranty and insurance of your equipment void. This could significantly increase your repair costs in case of a breakdown.

Genuine vs Non-Genuine parts

As any compressor dealer in Mumbai will explain, there is a lot of difference between the performance of genuine and non-genuine spares. Air filters, for instance, are necessary to keep dust and dirt out. Non-genuine air filters could cause contamination of pressurised air which can be especially problematic in sensitive operations like food processing and pharmaceuticals. Likewise, non-genuine line filter cartridges can reduce efficiency, cause a pressure drop, and raise the energy consumption of the compressor.

Why you must avoid counterfeit spares

To summarise, there are quite a few reasons for you to avoid counterfeit spares for your air compressor.

  1. Protecting your investment in air compressors by using only genuine spares
  2. Keeping your costs of operation under control
  3. Reducing downtime of your compressor
  4. Ensuring longer lifespan and reliability
  5. Lowering oil and energy consumption

For more information on spare parts of your air compressor, feel free to get in touch by calling us at 022 43436655 or emailing us at marketing@vemc.co.in. VEMC is the leading ELGi-authorised dealer in Mumbai.

Top 5 Reasons Why Your Air Compressor Needs Inspections Every Quarter

Top 5 Reasons Why Your Air Compressor Needs Inspections
compressor dealer in Mumbai

If you own an air compressor, you would want to use it at minimal operating costs and get maximum productivity. Well, the key to this is regular inspections and maintenance. As any compressor dealer in Mumbai will tell you, your air compressor works best when experts check on its health regularly. VEMC is a top-notch ELGi authorised dealer 

Here are 5 reasons why you must get your compressor inspected at least once every quarter

1. Helps avoid downtime

With regular inspections, you have a greater chance to unearth any faults in your compressor. If left unattended, these could lead to sudden breakdowns and halting of business operations. This is especially problematic if the downtime takes place during critical times of production. 

2. High productivity and proper functioning

Regular inspections help ensure your equipment is running at peak productivity. As an air compressor owner, you would want your equipment to pump with the highest possible impact. However, any leaks or tiny breaks in the piping can thwart this. 

Besides, in critical operations such as healthcare and food processing, compressors are expected to pump only clean air free of particulate matter or microbes. To ensure that your compressor is pumping clean air only, you must inspect your air filters regularly, and replace them if required.

3. Saving on emergency and costly repairs

Reduced instances of downtime or failure mean plenty of savings. Emergency breakdown of a critical component can lead to serious losses not just in terms of repairing and replacing it directly, but also by losing business opportunity and reputation. As all air compressor dealers in Mumbai would assure you, regular inspections cost much less as compared to these sudden and emergency repairs.

4. Increase the working life of your compressor

Regular inspections of your compressor systems can significantly increase its lifespan. Air compressor systems are a pretty huge investment that owners would definitely want to make the most of. The initial amount of money invested in the compressor should ideally give returns many times over. This can only be ensured by timely inspections and regular preventative maintenance.

5. Reducing energy costs

With regular inspections, you can ensure that none of the components is over or under-exerting itself. Both could lead to a waste of energy. A component may require regular cleaning, lubrication or even replacement. Such issues can only be spotted through timely checkups and controlled before they grow out of hand.

Preventative maintenance is clearly the only way to make the most of your air compressor systems. It not only ensures peak performance but also reduces the costs of operation. Prolonging the life of the air compressor is one of the most important objectives of compressor owners, which again can be achieved by timely inspections of core and peripheral parts.

For more information on preventative maintenance and inspections of your compressor, feel free to get in touch with VEMC by calling 022 43436655 or emailing us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We are the leading ELGi dealer in Mumbai.

10 Essential Maintenance Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Compressor

10 Essential Maintenance Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Compressor
ELGi authorized dealer based in Mumbai

Air compressors are a hefty investment which owners want to get the maximum benefit from. However, this is only possible by extending their lifespan through regular and proactive maintenance. Sudden breakdowns can be costly in terms of not just immediate repairs, but also loss of business and reputation. VEMC is the ELGi authorized dealer based in Mumbai

10 essential maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of your compressor

1. Replace filters

Air filters are used to prevent debris and particulates floating in the surroundings to get sucked into the air compressor. Over a long period of time, the cumulative load can become quite heavy. This can be problematic if you are operating in an industry like food processing and pharmaceuticals where high hygiene standards are necessary. Ensure air filters are replaced frequently.

2. Tighten loose bolts

Due to continuous vibration, your compressor bolts may get loose. Make sure you inspect and tighten them regularly to keep your air compressor in good working condition and avoid any sudden breakdowns.

3. Drain excessive moisture

Any moisture getting sucked into your compressor can cause rusting or microbial growth inside. This can damage the compressor and compromise the quality of your compressed air. Make sure you drain the excessive moisture regularly to avoid this.

4. Check oil levels

As all air compressor dealers in Mumbai will warn you, keeping the air compressor lubricated is a must. Check the oil levels once a day to ensure the moving parts are operating seamlessly and wear and tear is minimized.

5. Monitor temperature

Air compressors function best within a certain temperature range. If your compressor gets overheated, it can cause serious wear and tear. Some compressors come with an automatic shutdown feature on reaching certain temperature levels. Monitor temperature levels regularly and check if the automatic shutdown feature is working properly to avoid this.

6. Look for leaks

Any leaks in the hoses can cause a loss of pressure and make the compressor work harder. The compressor can become corroded or cracked due to leakage. Overall, it can cause wear and tear beyond normal levels.

7. Check air quality

Poor quality of air from the compressor can affect the standard of your operations. Check the air quality regularly to ensure airlines, filters, and other parts are functioning optimally.

8. Conduct repairs quickly

Having a lax approach towards minor repairs can harm the air compressor in the long run. Be proactive with your repairs and address them as soon as any issues arise. 

9. Troubleshoot

Take time to read the manual to know how your air compressor functions. This will enable you to troubleshoot whenever any issues arise to avoid things from getting out of hand.

10. Follow instructions

Do not assume that all compressors can be repaired in the same standardized way. If you face any trouble, follow the company’s own step-by-step guide.

You can get the most out of your air compressors by extending their lifespan if you maintain them. For more information on maintaining your compressors, call us on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. VEMC is the leading Kirloskar pump dealer and ELGi compressor dealer in Mumbai.

10 Key Benefits of Using ELGi Rotary Screw Air Compressors

 ELGi screw compressor
ELGi screw compressor

The rotary screw compressor is one of the most widely used air compressors. As the name suggests, it uses rotary movements of its rotors to trap and compress the air. ELGi is one of the most reputed names when it comes to rotary screw compressors. The brand is known for its efficiency, reliability, and high performance.

We at VEMC are the leading ELGi air compressor dealers in Mumbai and top the charts whether it is in ELGi reciprocating compressor or rotary screw compressor.

let’s talk about the 10 key benefits that the rotary screw compressor brings to the table. 

1. Energy efficiency

For starters, ELGi screw compressors are known for reducing energy consumption, boosting efficiency and improving your carbon footprint. This is the need of the hour given the ever-rising energy costs

2. Durability 

The rotary screw compressors have a robust construction which makes the equipment reliable and durable. The high-quality material used in constructing an ELGi screw compressor contributes directly to the compressor’s longevity and lowers the chances of a sudden breakdown or costly repairs. 

3. Advanced control systems

The in-built Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) of the compressors automatically match the pressure supplied with the demand, thus avoiding unnecessary wastage. This improves the energy efficiency of the compressor and reduces energy wastage manifold.

4. Low noise levels

An ELGi screw compressor is great if you’re looking for low-noise output. It is therefore well-suited for hotels, restaurants, or health facilities where noise and vibrations can be quite disturbing. 

5. Compact design

An ELGi screw compressor has a compact and highly accessible design. This makes repair and maintenance easy and low-cost. The compressor is designed to comply with international standards (CE, ASME, UL etc.).

6. High air quality

In case you’re looking to use the compressor in packaging, food processing, or the pharma industry, the quality of the compressed air must be good. ELGi rotary screw compressors provide you with exactly that, with its highest class “O” certification.

7. Customization options

ELGi offers custom-built rotary screw compressors based on your business activity. This means customized voltages, control panels, body color, and finish.

8. Service and support

ELGi offers unmatched after-sale service and support to its clients across the country. Its Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC) are a great way to prevent untimely and costly breakdowns while ensuring your compressor works at optimum efficiency.

9. Environment-friendly

ELGi compressors are manufactured keeping the environment in mind. These help reduce the energy wastage of the clients and ensure they operate at optimum efficiency.

10. Reduced emissions

The heat recovery feature of ELGi air compressors allows clients to use the energy for other operations rather than wasting it. This means lower emissions overall and more sustainable business operations.
For more on ELGi’s diverse range of product offerings, call VEMC on 022 43436655 or email at marketing@vemc.co.in. We are the leading air compressor dealers in Mumbai with a strong commitment to client service.

Compressed Air Industry Trends to Watch in 2023

Compressed Air Industry Trends

As more and more companies become energy and cost-sensitive, compressed air will emerge as one of the most favored ways to power tasks in factories and homes. In this blog, we take you through some of the most significant compressed air trends that customers and air compressor dealers must watch in 2023.

Here are the trends in the compressed air industry to look out for in 2023

1. Demand for Compressed Air Equipment Remains High

Compressed air is often the 3rd or 4th most favored utility in the manufacturing industry. As per a market analysis report, the global air compressor market stood at $32.02 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.4% from 2021 to 2028. Although the growth was somewhat tempered by the pandemic which caused a general slowdown across sectors, the post-pandemic world is ever more focused on energy efficiency, reducing costs, and cutting CO2 emissions. With the growing standard of living especially in the Asia-Pacific region, air compressors will see plenty of demand due to the rising use of air conditioners.

2. Lead Times Remain Longer than Normal – Especially for Steel Parts

A number of factors can affect the lead times of spare parts such as demand, stockouts, shipping delays, inefficient inventory control, and unnecessary processes. An Elgi compressor with its sophisticated design is made up of a number of small and large components. 

When it comes to the spare parts of your air compressors, you might experience longer than normal lead times. This is because most industries are just reopening after the pandemic, and with a sudden spurt in demand, mills will be looking to complete orders of priority sectors ahead of manufacturers of air compressor parts. This being a classic demand-supply problem, might even affect the prices of the spare parts, causing a bit of a concern to customers as well as air compressor dealers.

3. Compressed Air Supply Chains and Prices Are Stabilising

Compressor dealers have witnessed a serious disruption in business due to the pandemic. The complex designs and assemblage of a number of parts sourced from different manufacturers could make logistics for a typical Elgi compressor dealer rather challenging. But as the pandemic ebbs away, the global economy is recovering fast, most Elgi air compressor distributors would expect the supply chains and prices to stabilize once again.

4. Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) Applications Are Coming for Compressed Air

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) will have massive implications for preventative maintenance, performance tracking, and energy efficiency. Air compressors communicating over the internet can share the condition of their parts such as belts and motors. The enormous amount of data produced as a result will be handy in designing energy-efficient and high-performing air compressors. Monitoring will become remote and convenient as parameters like flow, pressure, speed, etc. will be available on mobile devices. 

VEMC is one of the leading ELGi Air Compressor Dealers in Mumbai. For details or any queries on Elgi air compressors, feel free to contact our experts at 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We at VEMC are way ahead of other air compressor dealers with a proven track record of excellence. As the most reliable Elgi dealer, we are committed to swift on-call service and top-class preventative maintenance.

8 Ways To Improve The Efficiency Of Your Compressed Air System

Improve The Efficiency Of Your Compressed Air System

A number of factors can hold back your air compressor from performing optimally and giving you the best results at lower costs. Whether it is your compressed air filter or lubrication, everything must work seamlessly in tandem, enabling you to make the most of your compressor at limited energy inputs.

Here are 8 ways in which you can boost the efficiency of your Elgi air compressors and ensure they work for you.

Understand Lubrication

Like all other equipment in your facility, an air compressor consists of moving parts. To avoid wear and tear on these parts while they’re in action, lubrication is a must! However, both over and under-lubrication can create problems. Also, the quality of the lubricant must be chosen carefully to avoid damage to the machine. This is all the more important if you’re using your compressor in a sensitive line of work such as food processing or confectionery, as it can poison the consumables. Each system requires a specific type or level of lubrication and the safest way out is to go through the user manual and follow the instructions.

Know how Particulates Impact your System

Particulates can enter your Elgi compressor system, hamper its performance or even cause damage to the parts. All of this depends upon the atmosphere where an air compressor is being used and accordingly necessitates the use of a good quality compressed air filter, such as an Elgi air filter.

Prevent Compressor Contamination

Both moisture and particulate matter can be a source of contamination for air compressors. This can cause poor air quality of air being forced out from the compressor or damage to the internal parts of the compressor itself. To avoid this, regular inspection, the use of air dryers, or the right air filter for the compressor, is important.

Cooler Building Temperatures

Both increases and decreases in temperatures can cause the performance of an air compressor to plummet. This can be combated by regulating the temperature of your building using air conditioning, central heating, or natural ventilation.

Reusing the Energy you Create

Sustainable use of air compressors can be ensured by avoiding wastage and making the most of the energy released. Air compressors release a lot of heat as they function. So make sure you tap this heat and utilise it well for some or the other function, in your building.

Keep your System Clean

All mechanised equipment requires regular upkeep and maintenance to ensure optimum performance. Air compressors are no exception. Inspect and replace the compressed air filter frequently and clean the inner parts regularly to keep the system in its best shape.
Whether it is replacing your compressed air filter or scheduling an audit for your compressor system, we can keep a close watch on all your maintenance parameters. We are the leading Elgi air compressor dealers in the country, and pride ourselves on having a rich industry experience of 72 years. So get in touch with VEMC –– the most reliable Elgi compressor dealer in Mumbai out there, and book an audit at 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in.

When To Add An Air Dryer To Your Compressed Air System

Air Dryer in Compressed Air System
Air Dryer

If you own an air compressor, you must have come across lots of suggestions online or otherwise, of adding an air dryer to it. This is because moisture in compressed air can be quite harmful to your machinery and some moisture-sensitive business operations as well. The degree of harm of course varies from one business operation to another. It can cause moulds or rust to develop over the metallic parts of your equipment (including the air compressor itself) and significantly reduce their working life and also affect their performance. Well, this is where an air dryer comes in!

An air dryer effectively saps the moisture from the compressed air, helps you prolong the life of your machinery, and also performs the tasks at hand perfectly well. In this blog, we take you through all that you need to know about air dryers in your compressed air system. 

What type of air dryer do you need?

Your choice of an air dryer for your compressor depends largely on the function you want it to perform and also your geographic location. Your Elgi compressor dealer in Mumbai will typically take you through the two types of air dryers that use these mechanisms: 

  • Desiccant air dryers: These are best suited for typically cold climes where the risks of freezing are quite high. These air dryers use desiccants such as silica gel or activated alumina which suck the moisture from the air as it passes through the compressor system. These can also be put to effective use in cold storage of pharmaceutical or food processing companies.
  • Refrigerated air dryers: In this type of air dryer, a refrigerant chills the air down to sub-zero temperatures. This freezes any moisture present in the air which is then removed before rewarming the air and pushing it through the piping to finally use it for the operation.

Selecting the right air dryer for your application

Moisture can cause serious damage to your equipment and in fact your air compressor system. But besides that, some business or industrial operations may require absolutely moisture-free operation and atmosphere. According to one estimate, moisture-related damages lead to the discarding of approximately 10% of all containerized goods. For instance, moisture can be a cause of serious losses in confectioneries, dry fruit, or wafer packaging operations. If you’re using a compressor in such facilities, therefore, you must ensure the complete removal of moisture from the compressed air.  Most air compressor dealers will recommend an Elgi air dryer –– a fantastic product that can come to your rescue when it comes to getting rid of unwanted moisture in your compressed air.
Make sure you’re purchasing an Elgi compressor or Elgi air dryer, only from authorised Elgi air compressor dealers who have both the product and the technical expertise for servicing it. VEMC is one highly acclaimed Elgi dealer that deals in both Elgi air dryers as well as Elgi air compressors and has a rich industry experience of over 72 years. If you need help finding the right compressed air dryer for your requirement, feel free to speak to our experts at 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in.

Industrial Air Compressor Preventative Maintenance

Air Compressor Maintenance

Maintenance of equipment is necessary to ensure longevity and energy efficiency. This applies to air compressors that are used daily in an industrial setting. In this blog, we take you through some of the pressing issues with regard to the preventative maintenance of your industrial compressors.

Difference between preventative and standard air compressor maintenance

In an industrial setting, it is necessary to have an inspection regime in place to make sure your compressor and its allied equipment are functioning at the optimum level. This set of checklists or procedures is known as standard maintenance. 

Preventative maintenance on the other hand is all about finding and arresting mechanical issues before they spread and cause costly downtime. The schedule of preventative maintenance varies from component to component. While some may require daily inspections, others can be checked once or twice a year.

Benefits of preventative maintenance for industrial air compressors

  1. Avoids downtime: Downtime for any production facility can be costly for business and with preventative maintenance, this can be avoided to a great extent.
  2. Saves costs: Sudden breakdown of systems can cost more as compared to regular preventive checks.
  3. Ensures energy efficiency: Preventative maintenance brings to the surface any gaps or issues behind the sub-optimal level performance of the air compressor.
  4. Increases longevity: With regular check-ups, fine-tuning, and cleanups, an air compressor system can be kept in good health. This helps avoid fatal faults or wear and tear in the system and increases its life span.

Recommended preventative maintenance checks

  1. Oil filter: Oil must not be allowed to leave with the compressed air as it can corrupt the surface if the compressor is being used for spray painting. Oil filters must be checked weekly and replaced after every 4000-8000 hours of use. 
  1. Lubrication: Change the lubricant every 3 to 6 months to ensure the health of the compressor. Non-lubricated surfaces of the system could cause serious corrosion of moving parts.
  2. Air filter: Check, clean, and replace the air filter regularly. You do not want unclean air or air laden with particulates to come out of the compressor and hit a surface being spray-painted or cleaned with the compressor.
  3. Motor bearings: Make sure the bearings are sufficiently lubricated. Carry out regular inspections and check the bearings after every 4000 hours. Lack of lubrication can cause the bearings to get stuck in place.
  4. Intake vents: The air entering the vents can become dirty if the intake vents are lined with dirt, dust, and grime. The same air will then be released in compressed form.
  5. Belts: Belts must remain firm to ensure the proper functioning of the pulleys and connected parts. Replace the belts before they lose their tension or break down in the middle of a task.

Which maintenance checks should a technician perform

While some maintenance tasks can be performed in-house by your own team, for others, it is best you consult the compressor technicians. Some of these situations are

  • Replacement of motor
  • Relocation of heavy compressors
  • Safety shutdown instructions
  • In case of a mechanical breakdown

For operation and maintenance tasks of your air compressors by our skilled and qualified technicians, get in touch with us at 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. VEMC is the authorised Elgi air compressor dealer with an experience of over 72 years.

How to Use an Air Compressor: Things to Consider

How to Use an Air Compressor

A number of things need to be considered while using an air compressor for your operations. These include maintaining the right parameters like pressure, checking oil levels, having safety measures in place, etc. In this blog, we take you through all these aspects in detail.

Picking the right compressor for your needs

For domestic purposes, the most commonly used air compressor is the reciprocating piston type. This works by reducing the space to increase the pressure of the air inside the compressor. This is quite similar to the working of an internal combustion engine. 

For industrial purposes such as large refrigeration or pneumatic tools, rotary screw air compressors are mostly used. These work by compressing the air inside in a continuous sweeping motion, thus avoiding any pulsations that may occur in a reciprocating piston-type compressor. 

Getting started

  • Place your compressor in the right position. Ensure that the compressor is on an even and stable surface and the power source is always grounded. 
  • Turn the power on and allow your compressor to run for a minute. 
  • Set the psi as per your requirements. Adjust the pressure till you reach the recommended pressure for a particular tool. 
  • Connect the air hose and the tool you’re going to be working with. 

Oil and air intake

  • Check the level of oil in your compressor. Add oil by removing the cap and filling up to the mark if required.
  • Check the drain valve located at the bottom of the air tank. Make sure it is tightly closed.

Moisture and drainage

It is necessary to remove excess moisture from your air compressor at frequent intervals. This is usually done through the drain valve present at the bottom of the air tank. Wrench open the valve, allow the condensed moisture to flow out, and replace the valve. Always store the air compressor in a cabinet away from moisture.

Power

Make sure you turn off the compressor’s switch before you plug it into a three-pronged socket. As much as possible, avoid using extension cords if you’re unable to reach the spot of operations comfortably. Instead use an additional air hose and plug it into the first one. Extension cords can cause overheating of the air compressor. 

Meeting all safety regulations

  • Always use polycarbonate goggles and closed-toe shoes while operating the air compressor. 
  • Pull on the safety valve to test if it works.
  • Ensure you are only applying the right amount of pressure for a particular operation and as per the requirements of a particular tool. Try to maintain the pressure on a slightly lower side for safety.
  • Only operate the tool while there is air in the tank.

For more tips or information on how to best use your air compressor systems, feel free to get in touch with us at 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. VEMC is the authorised Elgi compressor dealer with an experience of over 72 years.

What is The Difference Between PSI and CFM in an Air Compressor?

If you’re looking for the right air compressor for your business, and are researching on the specifications of the product, you must have come across acronyms like PSI and CFM. These are necessary to tell you which size of air compressors are fit for your needs. Both these parameters are performance indicators of air compressors and other air-powered equipment. The main difference between PSI and CFM is that the former measures pressure and the volume of the latter measure. In this blog, we take you through a detailed understanding of both these metrics.

What is PSI?

PSI stands for pounds per square inch. Quite clearly it measures how many pounds of air occupies a square inch area. The greater the PSI value of a compressor, the greater pressure it is exerting and hence the more powerful it is considered to be. Quite simply, an air compressor with a PSI reading of 120 would indicate that it delivers 120 pounds of pressure per square inch. On an industrial compressor, the PSI value is typically displayed within the compressor system. As a convention ‘PSI’ is written in small letters. 

What is CFM?

CFM stands for cubic feet per minute. This indicates the volume or output rate of the air compressor in terms of cubic feet of air per minute. Simply put, it indicates how much air is being moved per minute. CFM is always measured at a particular PSI and increases proportionately along with the horsepower applied. Domestic compressors typically offer a volume of around 2 CFM while large industrial compressors that usually run at 200 HP, can deliver up to 1000 CFM of airflow. 

How are pressure and flow related in an air compressor?

To run an air compressor optimally, both volume and pressure must be sufficient. The principle isn’t very different from that of a garden pipe. When you squeeze the end of the pipe with your thumb, you are in effect reducing the space and creating less room for it to flow out. This will make the water shoot out farther. In air compressors, PSI and CFM relate to each other in a similar way. 

For the purpose of mathematical calculations, the relationship of pressure with volume in a compressed system can be demonstrated by Boyle’s law which states that:

P1 x V1 = P2 x V2

(P1 and V1 represent initial pressure and volume, and P2 and V2 represent final pressure and volume.)

The risks of over-pressurisation

Many times, users may over-pressurise the air compressors to ensure enough pressure is applied for a given task. This could pile up irrecoverable costs of energy losses since an increase in PSI value invariably increases the energy consumed. It can also reduce the lifespan of your equipment as the ‘artificial demand’ (another term for over-pressurisation) can cause unnecessary wear and tear.
For any questions regarding flow rates or accurate pressure levels for your air compressor systems, feel free to get in touch with us at 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. VEMC is the authorised dealer of Elgi air compressors with a rich industry experience of over 72 years.

7 Effective Ways to Improve your Air Piping Design

Air Piping
Air Piping

Have you discovered recently that you are not getting the most from your compressed air systems? Air compression systems need a lot of investment. So, if they are not performing at their optimum, there’s a need to investigate further.

One of the usual suspects in the case of inefficient compressor systems is the air piping design within the system. Often, improving it can go a long way in boosting the efficiency of your air compressors. This also ensures that the tools within your compressor are getting adequate air to function optimally.

Having problems with air supply? These are some effective ways you can improve the air piping design and make your air compressor systems more efficient:

1. Eliminate quick couplings – Quick couplings, despite their benefits, can increase the chances of leakage. You should avoid using them, except when you require a fast and easy disconnect of the hand tool or paint gun. In all other scenarios, connecting your machine to a hard pipe or a flexible connection with a hose pipe should be more than enough. 

2. Consider the pipe length – The length of airflow directly impacts the pressure in your machines. The longer the airflows, the more significant the pressure drop. Hence, pipe length should be an important factor for consideration when optimizing your piping design. Understanding your compressed air needs and aligning pipe length accordingly can be beneficial in making your system more efficient. 

3. Evaluate the pipe diameter – Pipe diameter too plays an important role in determining whether your systems are receiving adequate air or not. Consider this — will you draw enough air into your lungs from a straw as compared to without it? In the same way, the pipe diameter should be big enough to ensure adequate air flow into the systems. Trying to pass high-volume compressed air through a small diameter pipe can be detrimental. The high velocity can cause more friction and lead to a significant loss in air pressure. This would be reason enough to choose a pipe with an appropriate diameter after careful consideration. 

4. Reduce piping elbows – Nothing affects air pressure as much as piping elbows. Those sharp changes in direction severely impact air pressure. So, fewer the elbows, the better. If you must use piping elbows, the long radius elbows are a better choice. This is because they cause lesser friction than the short radius ones and hence, lead to lesser pressure drops. 

5. Check the size of components – Ensure that you don’t overlook the size of your components when optimizing your piping design. When the filters, valves, regulators, and quick connections, are appropriately sized, they improve the airflow in your systems significantly. When they are undersized, airflow gets restricted and consecutively, pressure is reduced. It’s also important to avoid quick connect couplings as much as possible since they lead to considerable pressure drops. 

6. Eliminate leakage – Testing regularly for leakage in your compressed air systems is a must to ensure their optimal functioning. The most common material used for piping is PVC and PVC pipes become brittle with usage. In comparison, aluminium and copper pipes leak less. Aluminium also has the added advantage of not rusting or scaling. This helps keep your air compressor system clean. The common phrase “a stitch in time saves nine” applies here — repairing the smallest of leaks can save you a fortune in annual repair costs. 

7. Consult air compressor experts – It may not be possible for you to know all the nitty-gritties of your piping designs. Thankfully, there are air compressor experts, like VEMC, who can help prevent unnecessary breakdowns or repair expenditures. 

With these tips, you can successfully get the most out of your air compressor systems. An efficient compressor system can help save money and time, while offering smoother airflow. 

For your reference, here’s a chart to guide you in choosing the right pipe length and diameter for your compressed air systems: 

Source

VEMC is ISO 9001:2015 certified and a pioneer in the field of electromechanical engineering products, allied equipment, and services. With more than 72 years of industry experience, we provide best-in-class solutions and customised support in this field. We are the authorised dealers of ELGi air compressors. Contact us at +919819907445 and we would be happy to help you determine the right air compressor for your needs.

Debunking myths about compressed air systems

A lot misperceptions continue to prevail around the functioning of air compressor systems. Whether it is about their safety or the tasks that can or cannot be accomplished with them, myths around their use galore!

In this blog we debunk 7 of these major myths.

Myth #1: Compressed air can be used for cleaning dust and dirt from work spaces.

There is a fundamental difference between your domestic vacuum cleaner and an air compressor. The former sucks in air while the latter pushes compressed air with great pressure and speed. Quite clearly therefore, using compressed air for cleaning an office space will only result in dispersing the dust or waste particles wider across the floor, rather than being sucked in and vanishing into the compressor system.

A pneumatic tool operated using air compressors could in fact accelerate the debris particles and shoot them into people’s eyes causing severe injuries. Besides the particles could also land in vents, outlets and machinery causing blockage or damage.

Myth #2: To make the best of part–load performance, the most optimal solution is a variable–speed drive.

While it may make for a great sales pitch, air compressors cannot really be adjusted to suit different operations simply by changing their speed.Variable-speed air compressors are not really helpful across a wide range of applications.

Myth #3: Oil carryover is accelerated in variable speed drives.

In reality, speed drive has no impact on the rate of oil carryover. It is only aided by two factors, that is, heat and low pressure. In fact, lowering the air flow makes things more efficient by reducing the speed in the separator.

Myth #4: Flow controllers are unnecessary on air compressors with variable–speed drives.

Flow controllers enable most systems to offer their best possible performance simply by providing greater stability and pressure consistency. Flow controllers can even be beneficial in systems with VSD’s as they can help optimise their performance.

Myth #5: Synthetic air compressor fluids are all identical.

None of the synthetic air compressors are made of a hydrocarbon base. However, that’s where their commonality ends. These fluids otherwise vary drastically in terms of how they impact the performance of the compressors. Air compressor fluids are usually made of the PAO and PAG base stocks and each could have a unique effect on an air compressor system.

Myth #6: Aftermarket replacement parts are just as good as original parts sold by the manufacturer.

Original manufacturers design replacement parts keeping in mind the nuances of design and performance of your system. On the other hand, buying generic parts from an aftermarket manufacturer could impact efficiency, longevity and safety of the system. It is highly recommended to buy replacement parts from the original manufacturer only.

Myth #7: Compressed air is generally impure.

As opposed to common perception, compressed air is highly clean. In case there are any impurities, these exist due to poor maintenance, dirt in the ambient air or dirty system tubes and tanks.

VEMC is an ISO 9001:2015 certified company with more than 72 years of industry experience. We provide best-in-class solutions and customized support and are the authorised dealers of Elgi air compressors. Contact us at +919819907445 and allow us to help you determine the right air compressor for your needs.

5 Benefits of Regularly Changing Compressed Air Filter Elements

The enormous amount of focused energy that compressed air is able to produce is used for a wide-ranging set of activities. These include drilling, combustion, metalwork, filtration, chemical processing and moulding. While performing these operations, plenty of dust and particulate matter could get stuck in the compressor. In the short run, this impacts the performance of the compressor, while over the longer horizon, it could even affect its longevity due to wear and tear, or over-exertion. Air filters are therefore necessary to maintain the health and performance of your compressor.

Why air filter elements must be changed regularly

A compressed air filter typically has a coalescing filter, a dry particulate matter element or both. The former is used to pull and cohere water droplets or oil from the air while the latter helps trap dry particulates and microbes. Both use removable filter element. This is because in a typical industrial setup, these filters are under serious strains due to pressure and temperature fluctuations, corrosive chemicals, varying air speeds, extreme humidity etc. These require a change at regular intervals.

Let’s understand in detail the 5 benefits that arise from regular replacement of air filter elements:

1. Safety

By regularly changing your air filter, you’re committing yourself to particulate-free air on the factory floor. This will protect your employees from exposure to dust particles and microbes, where air compressors are being used for air conditioning. Besides this will also prevent accidents from unwanted overheating or system malfunction.

2. Cost control

By replacing the air filters regularly, you are reducing the risks of sudden breakdown and also the costs associated with it, such as downtime and expensive repairs. A saturated air compressor which doesn’t have a fresh air filter has to work harder causing more wear and tear, and also consuming more energy.

3. Efficiency

By enabling easy flow of air through your compressor, fresh air filter elements are highly useful in ensuring greater efficiency and productivity in your facility. The adsorption dryer beds for instance can work with maximum efficiency when new filters are used.

4. Boosting longevity

Filters are generally manufactured using borosilicate glass. If air filters are not replaced regularly, this glass can develop tiny holes causing accelerated contaminant flow. Overall, the regular replacement of air filters can help in ensuring longevity of the compressor system as it helps avoid the mechanical wear and tear, damages and corrosive glitches.

5. Reassurance

Having regularly replaced air filters can give you and your employees a sense of reassurance that the environment of the factory floor is safe, and the air is healthy to breathe. There are also lesser chances of breakdown and downtime, which could be a cause of serious business loss.

VEMC is ISO 9001:2015 certified and a pioneer in the field of electromechanical engineering products, allied equipment, and services. With more than 72 years of industry experience, we provide best-in-class solutions and customized support in this field. We are the authorised dealers of Elgi air compressors. Contact us at +919819907445 and we would be happy to help you determine the right air compressor for your needs.

A Short Guide to Moisture Control in Air Compressor Systems

It’s not uncommon for moisture and condensation to accumulate in your compressed air systems. Hence, you need a solution that can help prevent excess condensation in your compressor, especially if you’re in an industry that demands 100% moisture-free condensed air.

Why does your air compressor contain moisture?

Moisture is a natural by-product of the compression process. It just extracts the moisture that already exists in the ambient air.

Some of the common causes of moisture build-up in compressors are:

  • Equipment damage – When the internal parts of compressors wear out, it leads to moisture build-up. This causes the machine to lose its power to extract air as well as heat up, leading to more moisture build-up.
  • Environmental factors – Humid conditions also cause the machine to take in more moisture leading to more condensation.
  • Pressure on the compressor – When your compressor is strained beyond capacity, it gets heated up further more. This is especially the case with piston compressors, which heat up more when used for longer periods of time.

Why is excess moisture harmful?

Excess moisture hampers the workings of your air compressor. Some of the consequences of excess moisture are:

  • Rust and corrosion – Build-up of water in your compressors can lead to rust in and corrosion of the machine and pipes.
  • Damage to pneumatic controls – The machines that rely on pneumatic controls suffer from severe damage when there is moisture build-up inside them. That can result in rust and scale build-up.
  • Rapid wear and tear of production equipment – Moisture can cause the lubrication inside compressors to wash away. This causes metal components to wear away faster.
  • Damaged circuits and in-line filters – In-line filters help clean particles and oil from your compressor. Moisture increases pressure in the machine and reduces the filter’s efficiency.
  • Contamination – Moisture can damage end products, valves, and motors. It can easily contaminate solvents, lubricants, and food products.

How to eliminate excess moisture from your compressor?

Some of the solutions you can try out to remove moisture build-up from your compressors are:

  • Install an air dryer – An air dryer works in tandem with an air compressor to remove moisture. There are four common types of air dryers: refrigerated dryers, desiccant dryers, membrane dryers, and deliquescent dryers.
  • Get a piping system – Piping systems are one of the most cost-efficient systems. In these setups, the metal pipes absorb heat to bring down the air temperature, and can be a good solution for office buildings.

VEMC is ISO 9001:2015 certified and a pioneer in the field of electromechanical engineering products, allied equipment, and services. With more than 72 years of industry experience, we provide best-in-class solutions and customized support in this field. We also provide a number of ELGi air compressors. Contact us at +919819907445 and we would be happy to help you determine the right air compressor for your needs.

Why My Air Compressor Is Losing Pressure?

What is Compressed Air Pressure Drop and How Do You Minimize It -  Fluid-Aire Dynamics

Air is drawn in through the inlet valve, compressed to the necessary volume, and released through a discharge valve into a storage tank by air compressors. An electric motor typically powers the compression operation. When the system is using a much greater quantity of energy than before, pressure drops will be apparent. It is important to eliminate or reduce pressure drops wherever possible as this will improve the system’s efficiency and help reduce your maintenance costs.

You can reduce or eliminate the pressure drops in the following ways:

Examine Tubing

If your Elgi air compressor system has tubing, it is crucial to do so in order to ensure that the tubes are still airtight. Tubing issues might also be brought on by rust build-up. It’s time to replace the tubing if you notice any rust accumulation or cracks.

Improve the piping layout

Although it has been demonstrated that piping systems older than five years can leak up to 25% of their capacity, many institutions are sluggish to replace ageing machinery. The majority of institutions still employ galvanised iron, also known as “black iron,” for their Elgi compressed air pipe systems even when a more effective option is available.

Look for worn-out hoses

Air leaks could be caused by kinked or worn-out hoses. Regular hose inspections to ensure they’re in top functioning order may help you detect leaks earlier and prevent problems from getting worse. Verify that none of the hoses in your system are positioned so that they are under stress.

System connections should be taken into account. Each connecting piece needs to be accurate in size and tight. If any of your connection points are unnecessarily convoluted, it might be time to redesign your system with a more straightforward strategy in mind.

Check Regulators

The pressure regulators’ settings could be the source of the pressure drop and energy rise. You can try to reset it, but if the problem persists, it might need to be replaced.

Replace Lubricators

The lubricators on your air compressor must correspond to the system’s actual flow rate. They might need to be altered if they are not operating properly within the constraints of your system.

Filter upkeep or replacement

After leaks have been found and addressed, it’s crucial to take action to stop further breaches from developing. Leaks caused by dust, corrosion-causing moisture, and the accompanying pipe sludge reduce efficiency and raise the possibility of failure or end-product contamination. Regular system maintenance not only minimises risk but also stops new leaks from developing. The quality of compressed air is ensured, and pressure drops are avoided through routine filter changes.

VEMC is an authorized dealer of Elgi air compressors and provides end-to-end solutions for all your industrial energy requirements. Guided by more than 72 years of industry expertise, we aim to offer you specialized support in this space. VEMC is ISO 9001:2015 certified and a pioneer in the field of electromechanical engineering products, allied equipment, and services. Please feel free to contact us at +91 98199 07445, and we will be happy to assist you.

Five Benefits Of Upgrading Your Air Compressor

Upgrade Your Air Compressor to Save Money and Energy

Industries of today are leaning towards initiatives that can reduce carbon footprint and are generally more sustainable for long term use. But when a business considers upgrading its air compressor system, it may be daunted by the initial costs. However, the benefits of upgrading can often far outweigh these. Let’s take a look at five advantages of making the move:

High return on investment

A major benefit of upgrading your air compressor is the resulting return on investment. Most often, the return on investment of upgrading is higher than the cost. This might be in the form of energy savings and other efficiency-increasing benefits.

Significant energy savings

Another huge advantage of upgrading your air compressor is the savings on energy that it yields. On average, the costs of electricity account for a whopping 80% of total costs. An up-to-date system runs much more efficiently than a worn down one and hence, leads to a significant reduction in electricity bills. This way, the upgraded system makes up for the initial cost rapidly.

Higher uptime and reliability

Air compressors, like most other systems, require maintenance from time to time. However, while maintenance takes place, the system will experience downtime. The higher the downtime, the more the possibility of losing revenue. Systems that are upgraded as needed face less downtime. Additionally, they have lower chances of breaking down and are much more reliable for regular operations, helping you to minimize production losses.

Avail of government incentives

Most governments including India’s Bureau of Energy Efficiency, have introduced initiatives to cut down the use of energy by energy-intensive industries. Called PAT Cycle VI, the Indian government offers incentives if your business adopts equipment that consumes less energy to operate. This also serves to increase your return on investment while reaping the benefits of this act.

Better health and safety for everyone at work

Upgraded air compressor systems also improve the environmental working conditions of your site. By drastically enhancing the quality of the air at work, your employees’ health and safety will be protected. As a result, they will fall sick much less than before, which means they will probably take fewer days off from work, thus increasing their productivity.

Overall, upgrading your air compressor is a step in the right direction. Consult an expert to review the health and status of your current system. If it needs an upgrade, you will now understand why getting it is a prudent decision.

VEMC is an authorized dealer of Elgi air compressors and provides end-to-end solutions for all your industrial energy requirements. Guided by more than 72 years of industry expertise, we aim to offer you specialized support in this space. VEMC is ISO 9001:2015 certified and a pioneer in the field of electromechanical engineering products, allied equipment, and services. Please feel free to contact us at +91 98199 07445, and we will be happy to assist you.

What Type Of Oil Should You Put In Your Commercial Screw Compressor?

Just as parts of your car and other appliances need to be lubricated in order to perform properly, so does your air compressor. But how can you tell what kind of oil is suitable for your air compressor, particularly a commercial screw compressor? To understand this, let’s first take a look at the role of air compressor oil.

Air compressor oil is a lubricant that helps to reduce the early wear and tear of air compressors. It can either be synthetic or natural and varies in characteristics like makeup and viscosity. It is important to note that air compressor oil is different from motor oil. For one, the latter contains detergent and much more carbon and sulfur.

Apart from lubrication, the benefits of using air compressor oil are many:

1. Absorbs heat

The oil keeps the air compressor at a cooler temperature by soaking in the heat that is emitted.

2. Resisting oxidation

The additives present in air compressor oil help keep the oxidation and acid formation processes at bay.

3. Improves longevity

The additives in air compressor oil also play a role in lengthening its shelf life, keeping the components of the machine protected when in standby mode, and increasing the compatibility of the oil with various conditions.

4. Stands up to the cold

Air compressor oil remains viscous even in cool temperatures, unlike many other lubricants.

The two main types of air compressor oil are standard and synthetic

  1. The standard type of air compressor oil contains a mineral oil base. This makes it cheaper than synthetic and is advisable for light or medium-duty and those who need not use their compressors continuously.
  2. On the other hand, synthetic air compressor oil contains a heavily processed and refined synthetic base. As a professional who runs an air compressor more than thrice a week, this is a suitable option for you. What’s more, synthetic oil keeps the air compressor functioning smoothly and with little to no noise. It also does a good job of preventing it from overheating.

For commercial screw compressors, it is best to use synthetic oil. These do not contain additives or sulfur that can often produce an unwanted buildup on the valves. They are also consumed at a slower rate than the standard kind, help to prolong the life span of the compressor, and stay cooler during operations. What’s more, they create fewer deposits of sludge and carbon that can adversely affect the performance of the machine, and produce air discharge at lower temperatures than standard oil. Synthetic oil also makes for safer operating conditions as its ignition temperatures are much higher than standard oil.

Suffice to say, synthetic oil is the best choice to keep your commercial screw compressor performing optimally.

ELGi Air Lube Oil provides an effective solution to suit various applications and work environments. You can choose this carefully formulated oil as a reliable way to meet your needs in different operating conditions.

VEMC is an authorized dealer of Elgi air compressors and provides end-to-end solutions for all your industrial energy requirements. Guided by more than 72 years of industry expertise, we aim to offer you specialized support in this space. VEMC is ISO 9001:2015 certified and a pioneer in the field of electromechanical engineering products, allied equipment, and services. Please feel free to contact us at +91 98199 07445, and we will be happy to assist you.