Components of a Reciprocating Air Compressor

  1. A reciprocating air compressor is the most commonly used type of air compressor. This type of compressor can be used for powering pneumatic tools, among other uses. Reciprocating air compressors are made of many other components, each of which contributes to the compressor¡¯s overall operation in their own way. If you plan on working with reciprocating air compressors, you will want to know what these components are.

    Frame

  2. The reciprocating air compressor¡¯s most obvious component is its frame, also called its crankcase. Usually, this component is shaped like either a square or a rectangle. The main function of the frame is to provide support for the crankshaft. Air compressor ,12 volt compressor , 12v air compressor

    Piston

  3. The piston is one of the most important components of a reciprocating air compressor. The piston is what actually compresses the air contained within the piston. Most often, a reciprocating compressor will have pistons made out of aluminum alloy. However, if the model of reciprocating compressor uses non-lubricated pistons, they will most commonly be made out of cast iron.

    Compression Rings

  4. The compression rings help the pistons to do their work. They function as seals against the pressure of the air as the piston compresses it. The compression rings fit onto several grooves cut into the piston. The number of compression rings will depend upon the diameter of the piston as well as the pressure present in the compressor.

    Oil Scrapper Rings

  5. Oil scrapper rings are only present in certain types of air compressors. Splash-lubricated oil compressors usually have scrapper rings. These rings are used to direct the oil caught by the compression rings toward the crankcase.

    Crank Shaft

  6. The crank shaft is the component that actually motivates the reciprocating compressor. The crank shaft is usually made from iron with several other sub-components such as crank pins holding the pieces of the shaft together, and a flywheel on the end of the shaft closest to the crank.

    Cylinder Head

  7. Every reciprocating compressor has a cylinder head, which is usually made from cast iron. Sometimes cylinder heads are referred to as simply cylinders. The cylinders are what the air flows through. They are designed to allow as streamlined a passage of air as possible, so that as little of the pressure generated from its pistons is exhausted. Cylinders fasten to the body of the compressor as tightly as possible, which also helps minimize pressure loss.