We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Machinery

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is a Pneumatic Compressor?

By Lori Kilchermann
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 14,566
Share

A pneumatic compressor, or an air compressor as it is also called, is a device used to compress and store air under pressure. Commonly consisting of an electric or gasoline-powered motor, compressor and storage tank, a pneumatic compressor is used to provide air pressure to operate air tools, provide air to inflate tires and air-filled toys as well as to power painting tools. The typical pneumatic compressor uses a pressure-sensitive gauge to turn the compressor motor off when a desired air pressure has been reached inside the pressure tank. This switch prevents accidental explosion due to over-pressurizing when operating correctly.

The pneumatic compressor is available in very small sizes to very large sizes, with every size operating on the same principle. A pneumatic compressor operates by having a motor turn a compressor while channeling all of the compressed air into a storage tank. The type of motor can vary greatly, from a small electric version to a large diesel engine. Small, single-stage compressors are commonplace on home-use compressors, while large, screw compressors are used on industrial-sized pneumatic compressor units. These larger compressors are often used in manufacturing plants where a great deal of air volume is required.

For the home mechanic or hobbyist who also requires increased air flow, a dual-stage compressor is typically used. The dual stage, commonly a reciprocating style compressor or pump, uses two cylinders to create an increase in pressure as well as a steady flow of air into the compressor unit. The first cylinder of a dual stage is considered the first stage. The first stage pushes compressed air into the second cylinder or second stage where it is compressed even more before being sent to the reservoir tank. This greater pressure gives the dual stage compressor the ability to operate air tools for a greater time and at a greater pressure than a comparably-sized, single-stage compressor.

A modern pneumatic compressor uses a pressure-sensitive switch to control the input of compressed air into the pressure tank. Left unbridled, the compressor could potentially pump compressed air into the pressure tank until the tank bursts at the seams. This is a potentially deadly scenario that is kept in check by switching the compressor motor and pump off at a predetermined point and pressure. Once the pressure falls below another predetermined point, the compressor once again switches on and resumes pumping air into the pressure tank.

Share
About Mechanics is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.aboutmechanics.com/what-is-a-pneumatic-compressor.htm
Copy this link
About Mechanics, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

About Mechanics, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.