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Frequently asked questions about compressed air

Compressed air is a type of energy generated by mechanical components which, by circulating and storing atmospheric air in small spaces, raise its pressure and temperature.
It is widely used in various processes and industries, such as the automotive and food industries, to supply pneumatic tools, paint, clean and even package various products.
Because it is versatile, it can be used in activities ranging from industrial production to medical and agricultural applications, and is a safe and efficient source of energy.

Although compressed air is relatively safe, it requires care:

  • Hoses and valves must be handled with care and using the appropriate protective equipment (PPE).
  • Periodic inspections of the compressed air network are necessary to identify leaks, which cause energy waste and can result in accidents.
  • Without proper treatment, compressed air is unfit for breathing because it contains oil and particles that are harmful to health.

It is essential that compressed air installations are well designed and receive preventive inspections in order to minimize risks.

Compressed oxygen is a pure gas, used in specific applications such as hospital systems and welding processes. Compressed air, on the other hand, is a mixture of gases, consisting mainly of nitrogen (78%) and oxygen (21%), as well as other gases in smaller quantities.
While compressed air is safer and used in a versatile way in industries, compressed oxygen requires additional care due to its reactive nature and the risk of combustion when in contact with flammable materials.

The operation of a compressed air system begins with the capture of atmospheric air by a compressor, which forces it through extremely small cavities, raising its pressure.
This air is then transported through a network of pipes and fittings aimed at minimizing pressure loss and maintaining air quality to the points of consumption, such as pneumatic tools and production equipment.
The system can include dryers and filters, which remove impurities, ensuring that the air is dry and clean before it is used.

Compressed air should generally be used in applications where flexibility and safety are required.
In places with high humidity or remote areas, for example, pneumatic tools powered by this type of energy offer advantages over electric devices, precisely because they are safer and work more efficiently.
Furthermore, in industrial processes, compressed air is ideal for systems that require variable speed and torque, such as drills and painting equipment.

Hospital compressed air is used in various medical applications, such as breathing systems, surgical tools, dental clinics and even for veterinary use.
It guarantees a constant and safe supply for mechanical ventilators and other respiratory support equipment.
This type of air must be clean and free of contaminants, which requires a rigorous filtering and drying system to meet health standards.
The reliability of hospital compressed air is vital for patient safety and well-being.

In general, the temperature of compressed air is influenced by the compression process, which generates heat due to the increased energy of the air molecules.
Without proper treatment, the air can reach high temperatures shortly after compression, which can vary depending on the type of compressor used.
One of the ways to prevent damage to sensitive equipment and processes is to use cooling systems to reduce the temperature of the air before use.

Compressed air pressure usually depends on the application and the type of compressor used.
In industrial applications, the pressure usually varies between 7 and 12 bar, depending on the needs of the equipment being supplied.
To ensure efficient operation, the working pressure must be properly regulated and the system must be able to handle the capacity without considerable losses, such as leaks, which impair performance.

There are two types of compressed air, which vary according to their purity:

  • Untreated air: can contain particles, oil and moisture, making it unsuitable for applications that require high-quality air, such as in the food and pharmaceutical industries. 
  • Treated air: goes through filtering and drying processes, guaranteeing a level of purity that meets the specific requirements of each application.

In distribution systems, the speed of compressed air can vary depending on the diameter of the pipe and the pressure applied.
In pneumatic cylinders, the operating speed is usually between 300 and 800 millimeters per second.
The ideal speed must be calculated based on the application to ensure maximum energy efficiency.
It is important to note that the choice of speed has a direct impact on the service life of the connected equipment.

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