While selecting the right industrial air compressor is critical for efficient and effective performance, it is only part of the equation. The compressor room environment, air compressor system design and compressor installation also play a crucial role in the operation of the compressed air system. Important considerations for air compressor room design, system design and air compressor installation will be provided in this blog.
Why Compressor Room Design is Important
The site and layout of the compressor room has a significant influence on the overall performance, efficiency, reliability and operating cost of the entire compressed air system.
This is because the placement of an industrial air compressor can greatly impact its ability to provide enough air to end points, as well as its energy consumption, lifespan and operational and maintenance costs.
For example, if the compressor is placed at too great a distance from the point of use, it may create pressure drops that will force the system to work harder to provide air to the point of use, resulting in higher levels of energy consumption and wear and tear on the unit and its components. Or, if the temperature in the area is too hot or humid for the compressor, it can degrade the compressor and related equipment over time, increasing maintenance needs and reducing air quality over time.
For this reason, it is essential to create an air compressor room environment that will encourage the best air flow, promote efficient use of energy and reduce avoidable maintenance issues for optimal system performance.
5 Considerations for Compressor Room Design
When planning the location and layout of the air compressor room, these five considerations will go a long way to ensuring prime performance of the system:
Air Compressor System Design
Once a location that ticks the above-mentioned criteria is chosen, air compressor system design is the next step in creating an effective air compression system.
Below are some tips on air compressor system design, along with links to more detailed information on each topic:
- Properly size the air compressor: Make sure that the industrial air compressor is properly rated for the CFM, PSI, and duty cycle required for the application. More detailed information can be found here.
- Choose the right piping material: While there are many options available and all have pros and cons, the material selected should meet the airflow and pressure requirements of the system, as well as the environmental conditions of the facility. More details on available piping types can be found here.
- Properly size the piping: Piping is available in a variety of different diameters so be sure that the diameter can safely manage the system airflow, volume and pressure. Piping that is too narrow will restrict airflow, increasing energy usage and reducing the performance of the end-use tools and equipment. Detailed information can be found here.
- Use short and straight lengths of pipe: Layouts with too many bends and sharp directional changes will create turbulence and pressure drops within the system, forcing the compressor to work harder to supply air, increasing energy bills and hurting the performance of attached equipment. Try to design a system that uses straight and short lengths of pipe. Tips for designing the air delivery system are available here.
- Reduce moisture: Moisture concentration is a product of both the ambient intake air and the act of compressing the air. Air dryers and coolers help reduce the amount of moisture present in the system. Drains and condensate lines should be provided to release accumulated moisture and prevent rust and corrosion. Information on removing water from the compressed air system is available here.
Air Compressor Installation Tips
Once the compressor room location is chosen and the system has been properly designed, air compressor installation is the next step. Proper installation of air compressors will provide optimal performance, long service life and safe operation, so ensure that installation is done correctly by:
Ensuring that the foundation is level, stable and able to support the weight of the industrial air compressor.
Selecting the best location for placement of the air compressor unit.
Making sure the electrical supply meets the power requirements of the unit.
A more thorough installation checklist can be found here.
Selecting a suitable environment for the compressor room, creating an efficient air compressor system design and ensuring safe and proper air compressor installation will provide an air compression system that performs well and offers high levels of efficiency and safety. For assistance with sizing and selecting an industrial air compressor, designing a compressor room or air compression system or installation of an air compressor, please reach out to the compressed air experts at Tavoron.
