Compressor Parts

Compressor Parts A gas compressor is a mechanical device which increases the pressure of a gas by reducing its volume. Compression of a gas naturally increases its temperature. Compressors are similar to pumps: both increase the pressure on a fluid and both can transport the fluid through a pipe. As gases are compressible, the compressor also reduces the volume of a gas. Liquids are relatively incompressible, so the main action of a pump is to transport liquids. Reciprocating compressors use pistons driven by a crankshaft. They can be either stationary or portable, can be single or multi-staged and can be driven by electric motors or internal combustion engines. Small reciprocating compressors from 5 to 30 horsepower (hp) are commonly seen in automotive applications and are typically for intermittent duty. Larger reciprocating compressors up to 1000 hp are still commonly found in large industrial applications, but their numbers are declining as they are replaced by various other types of compressors. Discharge pressures can range from low pressure to very high pressure (>5000 psi or 35 MPa). In certain applications, such as air compression, multi-stage double-acting compressors are said to be the most efficient compressors available and are typically larger, noisier and more costly than comparable rotary units.

^ Top of page