Compressors: Operating Principle and Efficiency
A compressor is a device that increases the pressure of a gas and reduces its volume. In the modern world, alongside compressors, alternating current drives are gaining popularity due to their efficiency.
In inverter-type compressors, a higher overall efficiency of the power supply system is ensured, and compression is controlled in the engine rather than at the diaphragm or valve. Due to rising energy prices and the trend towards the implementation of highly efficient engines, compressors are becoming increasingly competitive, allowing for work speed increases of up to ten percent.
Piston-type Compressors
A piston-type compressor is a simple mechanical device where the reduction of gas volume occurs under the action of a piston that forces gases to compress. Its operating principle is similar to that of a water pump.
When the compressor reaches the required pressure, its system operates at full power. The engine continues to operate provided that it adheres to the specified range and meets all the requirements of the regulatory body, monitoring the necessary parameters.
However, if the operation of the compressor is focused solely on starting and full load, without considering the volume of air masses and other important parameters, it can be stated that the piston compressor has limited efficiency. This type of compressor can operate at temperatures exceeding sixty degrees, but only if the ambient environment does not exceed fifty degrees.
To reduce electricity consumption, alternating current drives can be used. It is important to note that the amount of energy needed for the operation of a piston compressor may exceed one hundred and fifty percent of the energy required to lower the nominal performance of the drive device. In such cases, alternating current drives are preferred, as they provide higher functionality, reduced power requirements, and better operational temperature conditions.
Using alternating current drives together with frequency converters allows for significant optimization of compressor operating modes, starting it only when required by the load.