Advantages and Disadvantages of Various Types of Compressors

Compressors are widely used in various industries and applications to increase the pressure of gases or air. Different types of compressors have their own advantages and disadvantages based on factors such as efficiency, cost, maintenance requirements, and specific application needs. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of commonly used compressor types:

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It's important to note that the advantages and disadvantages mentioned above are generalizations, and the specific performance and suitability of a compressor type can vary depending on the particular application and operating conditions. It's recommended to consult with experts or manufacturers to determine the most suitable compressor type for a specific use case.

Centrifugal air compressors are one example of dynamic style air compressors. The dynamic type of compressors have a continuous flow of air that has its velocity increased in an impeller that is rotating at a higher speed. The kinetic energy of the air is increased due to the increase in velocity and then becomes transformed into pressure energy through the use of a volute chamber, or a diffuser. The volute chamber is a curved funnel that increases in surface are as it approaches the discharge port. This converts the kinetic energy into pressure by allowing the velocity to reduce while the pressure increases. Approximately 1/2 of the energy is developed in the impeller and the other half is developed in the volute chamber or diffuser.

The most common centrifugal air comppressor has between two and four stages in order to generate pressures up to 150 psig. A water cooled inter-cooler and separator is placed between each stage in order to remove condensation and cool the air down prior to being passed on to the next stage. These compressors still have advantages and some disadvantages. The list below showcases just a few.

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Advantages:

Disadvantages:

• Specialized maintenance requirements
• Higher initial investment
• Unloading/waste of air required to drop system pressures

To determine which type of compressor may be best suited for your facility, we suggest to locate and contact a compressor sales company in your geographic area. When it comes to determining the volume of air required to operate the EXAIR products and even some other point of use compressed air applications, EXAIR’s Application Engineers can help you determine the volume you will need to ensure the compressor is sized appropriately. If you would like to discuss any other point of use application, please contact us.

Brian Farno
Application Engineer

@EXAIR_BF

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Air Compressors Manufacturer.