II.

AIR COMPRESSOR

The basic working principle of an air compressor is compress atmospheric air, which
is then use as per the requirements. In the process atmospheric air is drawn in through an
intake valve: more and more air pulled inside a limited space mechanically by means of
piston, impeller or vane Air compressor for most part are powered by either gas or electric
motor it varies by model the inlet sucks air in for the piston to compress.

“TYPES OF AIR COMPRESSOR

Reciprocating (Piston)Air compressor – A reciprocating compressor or piston

compressor is a positive displacement compressor that use pistons driven by a crankshaft
to deliver gases at high pressure.

Base on the number of compression stages, reciprocating compressor can be a stage or

double stage configuration. In the single stage unit, Only one piston is use to compress air,
whereas there are two pistons for air compression in the double stages air compressor.
Double- As in the double stage the air which compressed in primary stage is input for the
secondary stage.

For marine purpose multistage compressor is used along with inter cooler at very stage of
compression and after cooler (for maintaining the final temperature) since it compresses air
at much higher pressure so it is required to fit safety devices like bursting disc are fitted on
the cooler shells( at water side) relief valves are fitted to discharge side for every stages.
Moisture drain valve(unloader ) are fitted at each cooler side cooling water alarm.
Delivery air high temperature alarm on after cooler outlet(Max93 degree celcius).