What is a compressor? Why do we need compression?

A compressor is a mechanical device used to raise the pressure of fluids (gases and liquids). It takes a definite amount of fluid and delivers it at required high pressure. Its working is similar to the pumps. The compressor unit stores the compressed fluid in an integrated reservoir having a regulation mechanism for controlling output pressure.

Read: Differences between compressor and pump

 

Applications of compressor

Compression has various applications. It is widely used in the industrial and domestic application.

1. Overcome the flow losses - Flowing fluid experience frictional loss. Pressure is increased to overcome such losses.
2. Static elevation of the fluid - Pressurize fluid to elevate fluid from one attitude to another.
3. Power source - Compressed air possess pressure energy, this energy can be used later. This is helpful in a hazardous environment, e.g., in mines, the compressed air used to operate the machines.
4. Small-volume storage of fluids - Some manufactured/ purified gases require compression to fill in the cylinder. e.g., O₂ for medical purposes, acetylene for welding, LPG, diving cylinder, etc.
5. Various manufacturing processes require compressed air to power pneumatic tools and hydraulic tools such as a jackhammer. They are used to blow molding (plastic bottles), for sand blasting.
6. For pressurizing aircraft cabin at high altitude.
7. In refrigeration and air-conditioning systems.
8. Turbocharger and supercharger used in the vehicle are actually air compressor that increases the performance of IC engines.
9. Some other uses compressed air systems are - spray painting, nail gun, hyperbaric oxygen therapy.