AIR COMPRESSORS IN THE AEROSPACE INDUSTRY
Maintaining high-quality, clean air can be challenging for any company making use of air compressors on a regular basis. In the aerospace sector, maintaining optimal air purity can be especially difficult, but is critical for ensuring optimal performance and safety; in this sensitive field, there is very little room for error.
To ensure aviation and space equipment is fit for use in the field, every last tweak must be done with great care — and this requires reliable air compressor performance. Manufacturers of aerospace components and systems must be able to ensure superior quality and performance while still keeping costs in check.
There are two main types of air compressors used in aerospace applications: reciprocating air compressors and rotary screw air compressors. Rotary air compressors are more suitable for continuous use, while reciprocating compressors typically fare better in intermittent-use applications.
AIR COMPRESSOR CONTAMINATION CONTROL FOR AEROSPACE APPLICATIONS
When manufacturing aerospace parts, contamination control must always be front of mind. Lubricated compressors that use oil as a lubricant can pose a serious threat to compressed air, since the fluid can mix in with the exhausted air.
For this reason, the experts at Compressed Air Systems (CAS) recommend working with oil-free air compressors, which help ensure contaminant-free air. These are ideal for utilization in the aerospace industry and are approved for use in clean rooms and electronics manufacturing facilities.
Oil-free air compressors are employed in a range of aerospace applications, including breathable air systems, aircraft manufacturing, aircraft engine startup, and automatic tool changes.
For less demanding applications, our standard lubricated air compressors are equipped with advanced filtration and air/fluid separation systems, providing users peace of mind and reducing the risk of damage to sensitive equipment.
COMMON APPLICATIONS FOR AEROSPACE AIR COMPRESSORS
In addition to the applications listed in the section above, other common air compressor uses include:
- Aircraft engine manufacturing
- Aircraft wing structural testing
- Ground support equipment
- Test bench supply
- Work holding devices