What is compressed air? Applications, moisture and treatment
Compressed air is air at a pressure higher than its surroundings. Industry uses it as an energy carrier and process medium to operate pneumatic tools, actuators and equipment.
Why water appears
Atmospheric air contains water vapour. Compression heats the air, and subsequent cooling can cause some moisture to condense. Condensate quantity depends on flow, temperature, humidity, pressure and cooling conditions. A moisture separator removes separated liquid; drying reduces water vapour content.
What air treatment does
The process determines limits for water, oil and solid particles. Choose a dryer for the required pressure dew point and operating conditions. Select filters for the contaminants and verified performance. A receiver helps match short-term demand and supply but does not increase continuous compressor capacity.
Where to start a system assessment
Determine end-use flow and minimum pressure, operating hours and air quality requirements. Measure pressure under load: losses in piping and equipment depend on flow. DAUCORE helps check site conditions and make preliminary assessments of receivers, piping, pressure drop and ownership cost.
What to prepare
- Flow and pressure at end uses
- Site temperature and humidity
- Required dew point
This guide helps assemble inputs. Check the complete datasheet for the specific model’s conditions.