What is a Compressed Air Technology System?

While we might not realize it, we use compressed air for a lot of purposes in our lives daily and otherwise.  It’s what creates the aerosol cans we use, for example.  However, what is the purpose of a technology system that utilizes it?  How does it work?

This article aims to answer those questions.  While on its face it might seem like a dull topic, I can assure you that it is worthwhile to learn these things.  After all, that is how we can improve our ability to purchase equipment for our businesses, as just one example!

What it is

I’ll start off with the basics, since I think getting a solid foundation of information is a good way to learn.  You can look on this page for some more details, but I’ll cover it as well.  At its core, it is air that is compressed at a pressure that is higher than that of the atmosphere.  This makes it highly condensed.

Its primary purpose is to serve as a form of transportation for energy in manufacturing systems.  It’s also used quite often in power tools.  Those might be drills, saws, hammers, or wrenches, just to name a few.  Obviously, there are others out there as well!

Spray paint also utilizes it, of course.  That is how the paint is sprayed out of the can in a fairly precise stream.  Otherwise, it would just get everywhere and not be very effective.

How it is Used

As you can probably imagine based on the first section, the uses for a compressed air technology system are multitudinous and span across several fields of work and expertise.  One that we often don’t think about are firefighters, who often have equipment like shown above that holds pressurized oxygen or water.

Scuba divers also use it, of course.  It’s a very fun hobby, so if you’ve never partaken, I would definitely recommend.  It’s crazy how the stuff that keeps us alive is stored in one or two little cylinders that don’t easily break!

Shifting focus a bit, it’s also a part of many cars and brake systems.  This is especially true for large vehicles that will be on the highway, like trucks that are carrying cargo.  Even some trains use it in their brakes to create a safer operating cycle than any other type.

Some Fast Facts

Before the invention of this type of power, most items used steam power to run.  While there are still some boats that use that, the industry standard has largely shifted to utilizing compressed air power instead.  That is definitely something to keep in mind as you consider what sort of equipment to get for your business.

One thing that is good to know is that these types of systems need some sort of ventilation system, which you can read more about in this article: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/energy-star-canada/about/energy-star-announcements/publications/energy-efficiency-reference-guide-compressed-air/what-compressed-air/14950.  This is to remove vapors from both water and oil, as both can disrupt the natural flow of the system.

Another fact to keep in mind is that you have to treat any power outages delicately for them.  What I mean by that is when there is a power failure, if it is turned on again all at once, there is a chance for short-circuiting the system.  You can avoid this by staggering the process.  So, you will want to turn it back on via breakers in a slow but steady manner.

Why it Matters

If this still feels a bit pointless to you, I understand.  However, I think it comes down to the important ways in which we utilize these systems.  Rescue teams in home that are burning down or mines with potentially hazardous fumes might not be possible without the breathing apparatuses we have created with compressed air, for example.

Of course, that isn’t the only reason why.  It can also assist with improving energy efficiency in your place of business or even your home.  It takes less energy to power these systems on than other types, so that’s something to consider as well.

While it might feel expensive to sink a lot of money into on its surface, the long-term effects make it well worth it.  Whatever industry you are in, you can probably use it in some way.  I know a lot of artists who use it in a variety of fields.

Obviously, there is spray paint.  However, some makeup artists use a tool known as an airbrush, which uses this technology.  They are able to create stunning looks with it, without causing any skin damage.  So, it’s not like it is dangerous (in most cases).

If you have been on the fence about purchasing a piece of equipment that utilizes air compression, I understand.  I hope this article has been able to provide you with some insights.