Installing a Stationary Air Compressor



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If you have decided to install a stationary air compressor in your auto shop of factory, then you have made the right choice.  Air power will give you the flexibility to carry out a wider range of tasks easily and quickly, and make a huge difference to the efficiency that your workshop or factory can run at.  Unlike portable systems or trolley mounted air compressors, which are simply moved to wherever they are needed and then switched on for use, a stationary air compressor provides compressed air to various points within the workshop via a network of fixed pipes that you can simply plug into whenever you need them.

There are a number of advantages of a stationary air compressor over alternative systems, and these range from the increased power that they offer in terms of the air pressures that they can achieve through to the fact that they enable staff to do their jobs more effectively and quickly, as instead of needing to set up and prime a portable compressor every time they need air, they simply plug into the main system and get it instantly.

The actual installation process for an Ingersoll Rand stationary air compressor or any other manufacturer’s models is a relatively straightforward process, although as with any other job, taking great care throughout the process will result in a much better finish.

The most important factor to consider when installing a stationary air compressor is its location.  The compressor will need to be placed in an area that is well lit, offers a good supply of air, and is dry and clean.  The area needs to be accessible, and offer 1000 cubic feet of air for every 5Hp of the compressor’s rating.  To ensure good air supply and to prevent overheating you will need to position the unit at least 15 inches from any walls for an electrically powered unit, and at least 3 feet for petrol powered compressor.  Make sure that wherever you place the compressor it is oriented in such a way to allow easy access to the power supply to enable easier servicing and control.  If possible, you should avoid positioning an electrical compressor outdoors unless the motor is properly protected from the environment.

Other factors that need to be considered when positioning the stationary air compressor include the quality of the air that can be used.  If an area is particularly humid, this will lead to higher levels of humidity in the supply of air through the compressor, which will in turn lead to a higher likelihood of corrosion or contamination if appropriate filters are not used.  Likewise, a position that is likely to be dusty during working hours can also create problems, so try and place the compressor away from any major processing areas.

The ambient temperature must also been be considered in the location of the stationary air compressor.  In order to work effectively, the compressor should be in an area where the temperature is between 32F and 100F, as below this temperature, liquids can freeze and impair the performance, while at higher temperatures, additional stresses are placed on components that can cause failure.  If temperatures are likely to fall significantly outside this range, then appropriate heating or cooling must be put in place to ensure efficiency and reliability.
 
One other thing that you will need to consider in the final location of your air compressor is the noise it produces.  Placing it close to an office or customer area can make it difficult to work, and also make an area unpleasant.  Consult with any local officials regarding acceptable noise limits in your area before installing the compressor, and take their advice about positioning.

Once all of these factors have been considered, and the best possible location chosen, fitting it is a relatively straightforward process.  For the most effective operation and to prevent excessive maintenance, the compressor needs to be fixed to the ground.  This is achieved by bolting it into place.  This will prevent the unit from vibrating excessively.  You should ensure that the floor is level and secure, and use long bolts that are able to provide a good anchor point.  In use, an air compressor can vibrate significantly, and various dampers are available to reduce the stress on the anchor points.  These will protect the flooring, and prevent damage from occurring due to the normal movement of the compressor in use.




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