5 best practices to get Maximum ROI on your Air compressor

The evolution of air compressor

Indubitably, an air compressor plays an imperative role in multifarious industries, especially in the chemical and manufacturing industry. Basically, air compressors are multi-talented devices which are mainly utilized to supply the compressed air in a specified space. Though the markets are crammed with different types of air compressors (reciprocating, centrifugal, rotary, etc.), still, the basic technology remains the same and facile for all types. Every compressor possesses the basics components (powered pistons, screws, or impellers) to compress atmospheric air to the required pressure.

Compressed air and power consumption

It has become an arduous job for the manufacturers to achieve optimal efficiency because compressed air is innately inefficient. Though fossil fuels are more efficient for the work purpose, still, compressed air is the safest way to store and use energy. Thus, it can be concluded that compressed air is always a pivotal energy source for various industries. That’s why manufacturers have innovated different ways to lessen lifecycle cost, enhance reliability, and uplift air quality.

Here, in this article, we are going to mention 5 simple tricks or practices which will ensure that your compressed air system gives you the highest ROI throughout its lifetime.

1. Size up your needs

It is true that bigger is not always better particularly for compressed air. When a compressor’s air production capacity matches the air requirement, it will load incessantly. Now, take an example of a compressor which produces 500 CFM. Unfortunately, the requirement of air is only 300 CFM. This means the compressor will be in unload condition for a certain period of time. In the unloaded condition, the screw compressors are not so efficient. So, now, it can be concluded that the larger compressors are more energy-hungry than those right sized compressors for a particular air requirement.

2. Match your frequency:

Right-sizing is only adequate for those customers who require stable air. But what to do with those customers who have varying demand particularly in the day or those customers who want to enhance in manufacturing capacity to get more air? Both these situations can be manageable by using varying frequency devices (VFD). The prime function of VFD is to reduce the compressor motor’s speed to lower flow so that it can match up with the actual air demand of the customers. This will also consume less power when compared with a fixed speed machine. Though some manufacturers offer in-built VFD with their compressors, still, there are some compressors where you need to incorporate VFD devices.

Managing a dynamic air distribution system: Energy efficiency is certainly one of the best practices in selecting a machine. But you need to consider air wastage and thus, energy inefficiency is the distribution system. You also need to think about the way in which the compressed air is transported and used in the end application.

3. Ensure a smooth flow:

•        Line design: It is always recommended to purchase a compressor which has a shorter distance to the application. Moreover, you also need to minimize the bends and kinks to the application. This will automatically lessen pressure drops and thus, improves the efficiency of your system.

•        Line Material: Plastic, aluminium, and steel are popularly used for piping. Though steel is cheaper than aluminium, still, aluminium offers bigger benefits like lower weight and corrosion resistance. Sometimes, compressed air may contain trace amounts of oil and water. These are some reasons behind line corrosion and pressure drops. Moreover, leaks in the line may lead to higher energy consumption as well as air wastage.

4. Evaluate and overhaul:

Air audits are mandatory which will evaluate the efficiency of use of compressed air in an operation. Air audits will give you an idea of how you can save energy by choosing a better compressor, improving line design, addressing leaks, and optimizing usage.  Air audits can be done by the compressor manufacturers and independent air auditors. By using flow meters and leak detection devices, an air audits expert will evaluate an operation’s air usage. After analysing the entire scenario, they will submit a report where they will show the potential savings along with recommended changes and associated costs which will help you to save your money.  Along with compressor selection, line design, and line monitoring, air auditors will also review your nature of use.

5. Do a regular check-up:

If you want to enjoy the benefits of an efficient compressor, then you need to monitor it closely. In this context, you can take assistance from the experts who have sufficient knowledge and skills to monitor the operation’s compressed air usage.

These are 5 best practices which will help you to get maximum ROI on your air compressor device.

Are you desperately looking for an air compressor manufacturer? Then, you should consider the profile of Indoair. Indoair is an eminent compressor manufacturer and they have an array of products including a booster air compressor, Rotary screw compressor, reciprocating compressor, heavy duty compressor, and many more. Though they have started as a manufacturer of compressor parts, in the year 1998, they have established their own brand of compressors.

By visiting their site, you can get more idea about them and their products.