What are compressors?

Compressors are mechanical power tools designed to raise the pressure of compressible fluids or gases. They are widely used across a variety of industries to instrument air, drive gas through pipelines or power different types of air tools, paint sprayers, and similar equipment.

Types of compressors

There are different types of compressors typically categorized by their functionality. These include, but are not limited to:

• Piston compressors: Piston compressors are also called reciprocating compressors. As the name suggests, this type of compressor utilizes the reciprocating functions of the pistons to compress gas inside the cylinder before releasing it into high-pressure receiving tanks. They are most commonly employed to provide compressed air as an energy source or to transport natural gas.
• Diaphragm compressors: The diaphragm compressor operates with a motor-driven concentric, alternately expanding and compressing the compression chamber volume. They are small and low-capacity, ideally used in laboratories and medical environments, where pure air is required.
• Centrifugal compressors: This type of compressor uses high-speed pump-like impellers to add velocity to gases and subsequently increase pressure. They are mostly used in high-volume applications like commercial refrigeration units and huge processing plants. 

Applications of compressors

Compressors are used in a wide range of applications, encompassing different industrial settings. Their applications include:

• Petroleum refineries and chemical plants to compress gases
• Underwater air storages
• Aeroplanes for cabin pressurization
• High-pressure cylinders
• Vehicles for filling tires
• Refrigeration units and commercial/ industrial/ consumer air conditioners
• Gas turbines
• Different pneumatic tools
• Natural gas transportation through pipelines