The comparison of different air-compressors is done on basis of full load air consumption. This is of course an important start to compare different compressor types and brands. Unfortunately, most compressors are running a lot of time in partial load. Therefore, having a look at partial load is as or even more important. In...
30. A technology shift ?
During my latest trip in Asia, I came across so many frustrations on the short lifetime and high cost related to the screw compressors. The high ambient temperatures and high humidity results in short lifetime of the screw blocs. Customers having multiple small screw compressors 55kW which are running often in partial...
29. The 10 questions to ask before selecting the compressor to buy !
The Energy consumption for the production of Compressed Air is responsible for 5% of the World-wide energy consumption including Industrial and Household together. As responsible citizen of this beautiful and unique planet, you should ask yourself 10 questions : How important is the environment for you and your loveables ? Do...
28 Why you absolutely need to choose a VSD !
The topic of the Variable speed drive is an interesting topic as so much publicity is being made. Energy saving is the slogan. Yes, when selecting an Oil-flooded air-compressor, you should in most cases select a VSD ! Why ? Because the power absorbed at unload can reach very high levels...
27. Does a VSD air-compressor saves energy ?
The common marketing statements by the Air-compressor manufacturers is that to save Energy, consumed by the compressed air installation, is to install a VSD air-compressor ! What is not said that : A centrifugal compressor is designed for fixed speed and not suited for VSD. Exception for high speed turbos as they...
26. The uncontrolled air-pollution by Oil-flooded compressors ?
The majority of air-compressors are Oil-flooded/lubricated compressors. An Oil-flooded compressor will inject oil into the compression chamber to lubricate, cool and seal the compression chamber. After compression, the oil has to be seperated from the air through vortex and oil filters. After the compressor, the compressed air is contaminated with oil by the...
25. Do you prefer a slow running 6-cyl engine in your car ?
Buying a new car is always an exciting moment. Although you need to be looking at fuel efficiency and hybrid cars, emotionally, we like to have a large engine in the car. A 6-cyl or 8 cylinder will last much longer than a fast running 4 or even 3 cylinder. Trend is however...
24. The revival of the Reciprocating compressor ?
The Reciprocating compressor or the Piston compressor, is one of the simplest and oldest way of compressing air. Before 1960, the piston compressor was the standard. They were used for all size, from small air compressors to large sizes, from low pressure to high pressure. The reliability and the maintenance intervals...
23. The cruel reality ?
During my visit to Asia, I was confronted with again the daily reality. We all talk about climate change and the disaster it is becoming. Indeed, no explanation needed to illustrate the floodings, the melting of the Ice caps etc… At the same time, in the Compressed Air world, little changes....
22. Are the Energy Consultants in Compressed Air useless ?
During my recent interactions with customers and Energy consultants globally, my observations have been shocking. The reality is that the industry outsources more and more non-core related activities. The internal technical departments of companies have been squeezed to the minimum and the suppliers of equipment need to make offers to the...