Design and application of air power meter in compressed air systems

This study discusses air power on the basis of energy transformation analysis at air compressor and actuator The work-producing potential of compressed air is proposed to represent air power and the definition and calculation of air power are given. Some calculations of air power are also shown in various conditions of air pressure and temperature. Then, with the success in giving air power, a new meter named "air power meter", which is in application for patent, is proposed with the purpose to realize air energy consumption management and promote energy saving activities in factories. The design of the meter including measurement method and its configuration is introduced, It is clear that air power should be measured by getting air pressure, temperature and flow rate. Furthermore, the function of accumulation dealing with air energy consumption during a period is also suggested. Lastly some applications of air power meter are suggested. By Using air power meter monitoring air energy consumption and its distribution in factories will become possible and easy. It is expected that air power meter will play, an important role in energy saving activities of compressed air in factories in the near future.