PISTON COMPRESSOR

Working of Piston Compressors

A single-stage piston compressor operates with a single cylinder, compressing air from atmospheric pressure to the desired discharge pressure in one stroke. This type of compressor is suitable for applications where moderate pressure is needed, typically up to around 150 psi. It is commonly found in small workshops, automotive repair shops, and DIY settings due to its simplicity and affordability.

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In contrast, a two-stage piston compressor features two cylinders: a low-pressure cylinder and a high-pressure cylinder. In the first stage, air is compressed to an intermediate pressure in the low-pressure cylinder before being fed into the high-pressure cylinder for further compression. By dividing the compression process into two stages, these compressors can achieve higher pressures more efficiently. They are often used in industrial settings, such as manufacturing plants, where higher pressures are required for various applications.

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Multistage piston compressors comprise multiple cylinders, each with increasing pressure levels. Air undergoes compression in several stages, with each stage contributing to the overall increase in pressure. After each stage of compression, the air is cooled before entering the next stage to enhance efficiency. Multistage compressors are capable of delivering very high discharge pressures, often exceeding 1000 psi. They are utilized in applications where extremely high pressures are necessary, such as in petrochemical plants, refineries, and gas processing facilities.