PORTABLE AIR COMPRESSORS - AN IDEAL STANDBY COMPRESSED AIR SOURCE.

The increased availability of rotary-screw portable compressors in a wide range of sizes combined with pollution control regulations limiting the noise level of compressors manufactured after July 1, 1978, have increased the number of applications for portable compressors as a temporary source for plant compressed air. These design changes are important to plant engineers because air compressor performance has been improved. A portable compressor can be towed to a location outside the plant (preferably near the compressor room), an air hose is connected to the plant air system, and the engine is started to supply good-quality compressed air for general plant needs. Portable compressors are readily adaptable to supply plant compressed air requirements because operating pressures are normally between 100 and 125 psi. High-pressure units (to 300 psi) are also available. The article discusses industrial applications, compressor types and characteristics, and performance guidelines.