In this article, we will explore the importance of an air receiver in your compressed air system. Air receivers store compressed air and improve operational efficiency of your operations. Let’s dive in and learn more about the functions and benefits.
- What is the role of an air receiver?
- The function of an air receiver
- Air receiver VS air compressor
- Choosing the right type of receiver
- The key to properly size a receiver
- Maintaining optimal pressure
- Choosing the right configuration: tank-mounted VS freestanding
- Optimising energy efficiency
- Safeguarding processes and equipment
- Ensuring longevity and performance
An air receiver is a necessary part of a compressed air system, also known as a vessel or tank. Its primary function is to store compressed air before it enters a piping system or pneumatic equipment. The receiver acts as a buffer between the compressor and the fluctuating pressure caused by changing demand. It ensures a steady and reliable supply of compressed air.
What are the benefits of having an air receiver in your compressed air system? Air needs can change because of factors such as process variations, time of day, shift patterns, or unexpected demand. An air receiver provides storage capacity to meet short-term peak air demands that the compressor cannot meet alone. It serves as a reservoir, ensuring a predictable supply of compressed air even when demand fluctuates.
Air receiver VS air compressor
Let's discover the importance of understanding the difference between a receiver and a compressor. An air receiver stores compressed air while an air compressor generates the compressed air. The compressor pressurises air and delivers it to the receiver for storage and distribution. The receiver acts as a buffer, stabilising the pressure and optimising the performance of the compressed air system.
Different types of receivers are available to suit different applications and requirements. Here are few common types:
- Wet air receivers store untreated compressed air and install between the compressor and the air dryer. Wet air receivers help improve the dryer's performance by removing moisture before it enters the system.
- Dry air receivers store and protect treated compressed air, serving as a vital component in compressed air systems. Installed after the compressor and air dryer, they ensure the integrity and quality of the dried air. It enables consistent performance and reliability throughout the system.
Properly sizing a receiver is a crucial factor for efficient operations of a compressed air system. A good rule is to have 3-4 gallons of tank volume for every cubic foot per minute (CFM) of compressed air. This is equivalent to 10-15 litres for every litre per second. However, sizing may vary depending on the type of compressor and the specific application.
We recommend consulting an expert to determine the appropriate size of air receiver for your needs.
Watch this video to learn more about Air Receiver
A crucial aspect of the receiver is the pressure it stores the compressed air at. Compressed air stored in a receiver is only useful if its pressure is sufficient for the intended process. Understanding both the output pressure of your compressor and the required pressure at the point of use is important.
Also, think about how long the receiver can provide air at the right pressure for your needs. This information is important for choosing the right size air tank for your needs. It helps meet the requirements of your application.
Equip the air receiver with a pressure relief valve. The valve releases pressure from the tank when it reaches its maximum allowable internal pressure.
Some smaller air compressors are tank mounted, with the compressor attached to the top of an air receiver. This option is not suitable for larger air compressors exceeding 35 hp or 26 kW.
Tank-mounted compressors are advantageous when space is limited as they minimise the air system’s footprint. However, larger air compressor become top-heavy and pose safety risks in a tank-mounted configuration. Taking into account the size and type of your air compressor is essential. This will help you decide whether a tank-mounted or freestanding receiver is best for you.
The usage of an air receiver can lead to significant energy savings in your compressed air system. For fixed speed (load/unload) compressors, operating on longer cycles with tighter pressure bands reduces energy consumption. Minimising the number of start/stop cycles prolongs the life of the compressor. This leads to cost savings and increased efficiency.
Variable speed drive (VSD) compressors allow for sizing the receiver smaller than for fixed speed compressors. VSD compressor match air production to demand.
The compressor stops running under minimal load conditions. During these low-load demand periods, we need a buffer. The receiver tank ensures a continuous supply of compressed air.
Another benefit of an air receiver is its contribution to process safety. Receivers provide compressed air to production processes and systems. This allows for a safe shutdown in case of an emergency. This ensures the safety of personnel and protects valuable equipment from potential damage.
Proper and regular maintenance of air receivers is essential for the longevity and optimal performance. Moisture will collect inside an air receiver, especially in systems without an integrated air dryer. Regular draining of the receiver is important to avoid corrosion, blocked pipes, and harm to pneumatic equipment or product quality.
The receiver should be drained daily. If the compressor operates at full load all day, you should drain it more often. Automatic drain valves, such as float drains, timer drains, or electric drain valves, can do this task automatically. Consult a professional to determine the best air receiver solution for your operations.
