Compressed Air

1250 hp compressor assembly

Reducing the Cost of Compressed Air Compressed air is the “fourth utility”Compressed air is the “fourth utility” A lot of energy (hence, money) is wasted producing compressed air.A lot of energy (hence, money) is wasted producing compressed air. Most compressors are driven by electric motors.Most compressors are driven by electric motors.

It can cost more to run a compressor for one year than the cost of the compressor.

Big source of compressor costs. Many times up to 40% lost in leaks. 10% is considered acceptable.

The energy wasted from a leak, is the energy used to compress the air that is leaking.

C discharge depends on shape of hole,.6 to.9

Example 6-22 page 363

The electrical energy consumed by a motor is inversely proportional to its efficiency.

Using too big of a motor can cut efficiency.

A rule of thumb is that a 3°C drop in inlet air temp results in a 1% decrease in power consumed.

Waste heat from the compressor can be use for many useful purposes.