The Physical Features of a Diesel Air Compressor to Know Before Making a Buying Decision

Diesel air compressors cover a scope of functions in the industrial space, all of which essentially concern powering machines of sorts. If you’ve had to check these compressors in the market, you may have noticed many types coming in different designs and sizes that could be puzzling if you’re yet to understand how they work or why you should get any of them. To clear the fuzz, this article has been drafted to address the different basic physical features of diesel air compressors which you can identify, regardless of the type and size. 

The Diesel Air Compressor Body

The compressor body is the shell or casing of the diesel air compressor, usually in steel or cast iron. It is designed to provide the machine’s internal components with support, stability and protection against weather agents like dirt and dust. The compressor body is also a mount for add-on components like the oil filter, cooling fan, and air intake system. 

The compressor body comes in varying designs, depending on the machine type and producer. It may comprise louvers, grilles, or vents that allow for ventilation in the compressor to keep its internal system cool.  Some compressor bodies also feature an oil-level sight glass so users can easily check the level of oil without having to open the cover. Additionally, some compressor bodies are also equipped with sound-dampening insulation to reduce noise levels when in operation. 

The Diesel Air Compressor Pump

When it comes to diesel air compressors, the compressor pump is a critical component. This pump, usually made from cast iron, helps create the pressure and power needed for compressed air operations. The compressor pump is composed of several components, including a cylinder block, crankshaft, piston, and connecting rod. 

The crankshaft drives the connecting rod and piston and also houses the valves and bearings. The connecting rod attaches to the crankshaft and provides a mechanical link between the piston and crankshaft, converting linear motion into rotary motion. The piston drives the air into the compression chamber, where it is pressurized. 

When shopping for a diesel air compressor, it’s important to look at the specifications of the compressor pump, such as horsepower, displacement, rpm, and flow rate. These specifications will tell you how powerful the compressor is and how quickly it can complete tasks. It’s also important to consider the type of compressor pump used (reciprocating or rotary) since this will affect the efficiency and cost of operation.

The Diesel Air Compressor Air Receiver

The air receiver is an important component of a diesel air compressor. It is a large pressure vessel that stores the compressed air until it is ready to be used by the end user. The air receiver provides a steady flow of air and allows the compressor to run at its peak efficiency.

The air receiver must also have valves to regulate the release of compressed air into the system. This helps to ensure that the compressed air does not escape into the atmosphere and waste energy.

The air receiver should be properly maintained and inspected regularly for signs of wear and tear. If it is not functioning properly, it could cause a dangerous buildup of pressure in the system. Proper maintenance and regular inspection are essential for ensuring that your diesel air compressor operates efficiently and safely.

The Diesel Air Compressor Cooling System

An essential part of a diesel air compressor is its cooling system. The cooling system helps to maintain the compressor’s temperature so that it can run at optimal efficiency. Without a good cooling system, the compressor may overheat and become less efficient or even stop working. 

The cooling system includes an air-cooled radiator, which helps to keep the engine cool. The air-cooled radiator allows air to pass through it to help dissipate heat. The coolant is also used to help lower the operating temperature of the engine and pump. The coolant circulates through the engine, pump, and radiator, providing the necessary cooling to ensure that the engine runs optimally.

Regularly check the coolant level and replace the coolant as needed. Make sure that all components of the cooling system are free from debris and damage, and check for any leaks. Proper maintenance of your diesel air compressor’s cooling system will help ensure that it continues to operate at peak efficiency.

The Diesel Air Compressor Aftercooler

The aftercooler is an important part of any diesel air compressor. It is responsible for cooling the compressed air before it leaves the compressor and enters your system. The aftercooler works by passing the hot compressed air through a series of coils that have been filled with water or oil. As the hot air passes through the coils, the heat is transferred to the liquid, thus cooling the air before it reaches its destination. Aftercoolers also help to remove moisture from the air and prevent water damage in your system. Having an aftercooler on your compressor can be vital in ensuring that the air you receive is clean and dry.

Conclusion 

Diesel air compressors come in numerous structural designs but are essentially the same when it comes to the basic physical features that make them up. You may want to check these basic designs categorically in terms of how they function and what maintenance is required to keep them working properly. When you look out for these features in a compressor, you can be sure to have a better grasp of the functionality of the diesel air compressor irrespective of their body design or type. Therefrom, making an informed buying decision gets based on a clearer basis of the machine’s performance as weighed from an assessment of its key structural components.