The use of compressed air spans rudimentary mechanic shops powered by decades-old reciprocating compressors to large scale textile units powered by high volume centrifugal compressors.  While the basic technology has remained fairly simple — powered pistons, screws, or impellers compress a volume of atmospheric air to a required pressure  — the design and use of compressed air systems have evolved to suit the industry needs.

Compressed air and power consumption

For manufacturers, achieving optimal efficiency is always a challenge as compressed air is inherently inefficient. Fossil fuels are more efficient in getting work done for the same amount of energy.  However, compressed air is among the best ways to safely store and use energy.  Thus, compressed air has remained a prevalent energy source for industry.  Manufacturers have innovated to reduce lifecycle cost, improve reliability, and improve air quality.

The Table below shows the typical lifecycle of a compressor.  Nearly 75% of the cost incurred over a ten year period comes from the power consumption.