Benefits And Applications Of Compressed Air
Compressed air is a safe and reliable power source that is widely used throughout industry. In fact, approximately 70% of all companies use compressed air for some aspect of their operations.
Unlike the other utilities, compressed air is generated on-site, giving users much more control over usage and air quality.
| Feature of compressed air | Example of use |
|---|---|
| It can be easily stored in purpose- built tanks in places where no other power is available or practical | Snow making machines |
| It can be used where other energy types cannot be used due to explosion hazard or fire risk | Oil rigs, mines, tunnelling equipment |
| Equipment operated by compressed air can function at extreme temperatures | Air tools used inside furnaces to remove build up of coke; & inside industrial freezers to remove frozen food |
| High degree of cleanliness, where quality, hygiene and safety are essential | Manufacture of food, electronics, dental uses |
| Dry compressed air | Paint spraying |
| It can be stored in bottles and used where no pipe system exists | Breathing air for scuba divers |
| As a power source, it does not interfere with electrical monitoring equipment | Operating theatres in hospitals |
| Air tools are often much lighter than the equivalent electrical models, making them easier for an operator to handle | Production line assembly Pneumatic drills and hammers in construction |
Below is a list giving an indication of the sheer range and diversity of compressed air uses
Construction trade
Drill and demolition hammers (hand rams) |
Wood processing industry
Drill feed systems |
Mining
Rock drilling hammers and carriage systems |
Steel mills and foundries
Carbon reduction in steel production |
Chemicals industry
Raw material for oxidation processes |
Plastics industry
Transport of granulate in pipes |
Energy industry
Inserting and withdrawing reactor rods |
Agriculture and forestry
Transport of feed and grain to and from silos |
Health systems
Power packs for dentists’ drills |
Food and semi-luxury food industry
Filling equipment for drinks |
Environmental technology
Forming oil barriers in the water |
Textiles industry
Thread detectors |
Paper-processing industry
Roller adjustment and feed machinery |
Traffic and communications
Air brakes in HGVs and rail vehicles |
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