Why Energy-Efficient Air Compressors Matter
Air compressors — in the course of delivering the “fourth utility,” compressed air — are a primary source of energy consumption in many facilities. In fact, it can take up to 8 hp of electricity to generate 1 hp of compressed air. Because compressed air is used in so many applications, it may seem difficult to identify areas to improve compressed air energy efficiency.However, if you understand the right areas to assess to determine compressed air energy efficiency — and take the right steps to address those areas — you may be able to effectively reduce energy consumption in compressed air generation while maintaining the same levels of performance.
Why Does Compressed Air System Efficiency Matter?
More efficient compressed air systems can yield numerous benefits:
- Cost savings: One of the most obvious benefits of efficient compressed air generation is reduced energy costs. If you are able to generate the same amount of air more efficiently — or can reduce the amount of air needed overall — you will see a marked decrease in energy costs.
- Environmental benefits: Using only the minimal energy needed for compressed air will also yield environmental benefits, as there is reduced energy draw when doing so.
- Maintenance improvements: As you’ll see below, many inefficiencies in compressed air systems come as a result of air leaks or inefficient setups. Remedying these issues can reduce strain on your system and, thus, potentially decrease maintenance requirements.
Determining Factors for Air Compressor Efficiency
Energy-saving air compressors create efficiencies in several areas. Compressors (such as rotary screw compressors) create efficiency through highly consistent, adjustable operation — ensuring that only the required amount of air is generated (and that only the required amount of energy is used). Other ways that an energy-efficient air compressor can save include:
- Leak prevention: High-quality, efficient air compressors should be constructed to prevent leaks as much as possible. Regular leak inspections should also be performed. Ultrasonic leak detection should be used so that leaks of any size can be identified and remedied.
- Pressure loss: Compressor system infrastructures — such as the type of piping in use, the disconnects in use and other factors — can make a difference in how much pressure loss occurs in the system. With excessive pressure loss, the compressor will need to work that much harder to provide the required amount of air at the usage point. Ensure that high-quality, industrial-rated equipment is in use throughout your system.
- Adjustable compressors: Rotary screw compressors are easily adjustable, allowing equipment to be configured to deliver only the required amount of air for an application.
- Automatic shutoff: The most resourceful compressors will go into shutoff or low-energy modes when not in use. Energy is not being drawn when air is not needed.