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Typical Compressed Air Systems

An efficient air system consists of more than a compressor. Since compressed air contains contaminants (dirt, oil, taste or odor), filters are required to remove these contaminants and dryers are required to remove water. Proper piping, drains, hoses, lubricants and other necessities/accessories will help you achieve the most efficient system to meet your needs.. Click here to learn more P-M-E's Air-EFFICIENT® Solutions.

BUYER'S GUIDE

For your convenience this section of the
P-M-E Equip site lists the top nine best questions you should be able to answer so that we can help you get the perfect-fit of compressor system for your application. We've also included a convenient dictionary of common industry terms and acronyms to assist you!

NINE QUICK QUESTIONS WORTH ASKING
BEFORE YOU ORDER
Need to place an order? Answer these questions so we can serve you better and faster!
1. How will be air be used?
Since air can be used for breathing, instrumentation, air tool operations, cylinders & valves, paint spraying, sandblasting and more, we need to know how you intend to use your air system and the quality of air you require.

2. Will operation be intermittent, continuous or both?
Some plants need compressed air at all times, others only need compressed air periodically. It is important that we know what your needs will be.

3. How much pressure (PSI) and airflow (CFM) will you need?
The total discharge pressure or PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) must exceed the PSI requirement of all pneumatic tools or equipment being operated. The airflow the compressor creates is measured in CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute). CFM is stated in two different forms; PD (Piston Displacement) and ACFM (Actual Cubic Feet per Minute). Always consider ACFM as it is the measure of USEABLE compressed air.

4. What air quality will you need?
Depending on your air compressor's purpose, you will need air with varying levels of water content or saturation (dew points). Dryers within the system can bring the dew point to levels of +35oF, -40oF and even -100oF. Some jobs require that the air be drier (or have a lower dew point) than other jobs. Consider the degree of air, gas and liquid purification you will need for your facility.

5. What horsepower will you require?
Horsepower has a direct effect on the CFM rating volume (or capacity)of the compressor. The greater the horsepower, the larger volume of air or CFM the compressor can provide. But please note, that horsepower alone should not be the basis for your equipment selection.

6. What size and type of tank will you need?
The tank provides a reserve of air to meet peak flow and pressure demands and provides feedback to activate cut-in /cut-out points for operation of the compressor pump. The larger the tank (also called the receiver) the more air reserve is available. Tanks also come in vertical or horizontal configurations and should always have the ASME Certification Stamp.

7. Where will the compressor be located?
If you plan to put your compressed air system indoors, remember that the heated environment should prevent air lines and drains from freezing but that sufficient ventilation is also needed to cool the compressor if temperatures reach high extremes. You cannot afford to breath hot humid air.

8. What electrical requirements (codes) will you need to satisfy?
Make sure your facility's incoming electrical service is adequate before specifying an air compressor/system. Have a qualified electrician review the requirements to meet local regulations.

9. How will you dispose of "hazardous waste"?
The EPA and local authorities (such as the TNRCC in Texas) are increasingly concerned about the oily condensate generated by compressed air systems. You must have an adequate disposal system or your facility can face some costly fines.