An air compressor takes atmospheric air, compresses it to a higher pressure, and stores or supplies it for pneumatic equipment. In an injection molding plant, compressed air can be used for valves, actuators, blow-off, mold components, and automation. 🏭🌬️
Main air compressor parts and functions
1. Electric motor ⚡
Provides mechanical power to drive the compressor.
2. Compressor pump/air end
Compresses the atmospheric air.
3. Air filter 🌪️
Removes dust and particles before air enters the compressor.
4. Inlet/unloader valve
Controls the air entering the compressor and helps unload the compressor during starting/stopping.
5. Compressor cylinder / screw element
The actual compression chamber. Reciprocating compressors use cylinders and pistons; screw compressors use two rotors.
6. Intercooler / aftercooler ❄️
Removes heat from compressed air. An aftercooler also reduces moisture by cooling the air.
7. Air receiver tank 🛢️
Stores compressed air and stabilizes pressure during demand changes.
8. Pressure switch / pressure sensor 📊
Measures or controls system pressure and tells the compressor when to load/unload or start/stop.
9. Safety relief valve 🛡️
Protects the system from excessive pressure.
10. Check valve
Prevents compressed air from flowing backward into the compressor.
11. Oil separator 🛢️
In an oil-injected compressor, separates oil from compressed air.
12. Oil filter
Removes contaminants from compressor oil.
13. Oil cooler
Removes heat from the compressor oil.
14. Drain valve 💧
Removes accumulated water/condensate from the receiver or air system.
15. Pressure regulator ⚖️
Reduces and maintains air pressure at the required downstream value.
16. Air dryer 🌬️
Removes moisture from compressed air before it reaches pneumatic equipment.
17. Pressure gauge 🕒
Displays air pressure.
18. Control panel 🖥️
Controls and monitors compressor operation, pressure, temperature, alarms, etc.
Basic air flow
Atmospheric air → Air filter → Inlet valve → Compressor → Aftercooler → Moisture separator → Air receiver → Dryer → Regulator → Pneumatic equipment
#Pneumatic
#Hydraulic
#mechanical
#reciprocatingcompressor
#screwcompressor
https://t.me/Amareengineering
August 20, 2026 470 3