Air compressors are utilized for fuel injection during flight operations, as well as for simulating pressure during the designing phase. Useful from production to operation, aeronautical engineers depend on air compressors for numerous projects and applications. In this blog, we will discuss the use of an air compressor in aerospace applications, allowing you to better understand its importance.
To support aviation endeavors, air compressors for such applications are designed with performance and quality in mind. There are two major types of air compressors that are used for aviation purposes, those of which are the rotary screw air compressor and reciprocating air compressor. When a particular application necessitates a large volume of air that is highly pressurized, the rotary screw air compressor is a perfect option. The rotary screw air compressor takes advantage of a rotary-type positive-displacement mechanism, and it mitigates pulsation and surges through its continuous sweeping motions during operations. As compared to the reciprocating air compressor, rotary screw air compressors provide high-efficiency functionality while mitigating noise and vibration.
Reciprocating air compressors, also known as piston air compressors, are a more traditional type that operates through positive-displacement. Containing pistons that are driven by a crankshaft, gasses are pressurized and delivered to where they need to be with ease. This first begins with intake gas moving into the suction manifold, allowing for compression to be completed with the piston assembly. As the crankshaft creates a reciprocating motion, the gas is then discharged from the assembly. As compared to similar compressors such as the diaphragm type, the piston air compressor is known for having a much longer service life while operating with a reduced amount of energy.
As stated beforehand, there are numerous ways in which air compressors benefit aerospace applications. During the production stage of engines, air compressors are beneficial for testing the assembly to see if it performs optimally in simulated conditions. This is similar to how they are used for wing structural testing as well, allowing for the strength and durability of airfoils to be checked. Beyond being used for manufacturing, air compressors also serve a significant role in the functionality of air brakes, crew area pressurization systems, fuel injection systems, and metal finishing equipment. When air compressors are intended for such uses, they must meet high performance standards so that they can be relied on with ease.
There are many benefits of using air compressor equipment for aerospace applications, increasing their usefulness. For example, both rotary screw and reciprocating air pistons are highly efficient in their operations, only operating when needed to avoid spending excess energy. Additionally, their ability to optimally remove exhaust and manage air quality enhances their overall performance. Alongside such benefits, air compressors are very useful for protecting equipment and personnel from contamination with the air quality they bring, and this can also lead to more safety as well.
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