A reliable compressed-air installation is a system, not just a compressor. Compressor output, storage, treatment, distribution and site infrastructure need to work together so the required airflow, pressure and air quality reach the equipment.
1. Compressor
Select the compressor from verified FAD, required pressure, load profile and operating hours. Do not select from horsepower or maximum pressure alone.
2. Air receiver
The receiver provides storage, helps manage short demand peaks and can support stable control. Capacity, pressure rating, condition, registration and location need to suit the installation.
3. Refrigerated dryer
The dryer reduces downstream moisture. Size it for actual airflow, pressure, ambient temperature, inlet temperature and the required air quality.
4. Inline filtration
Select filter grade and capacity around the dryer and downstream process. Account for pressure drop and element service condition.
5. Condensate management
Receivers, dryers and filters collect condensate. Provide suitable drains, isolation and disposal. Uncontrolled manual draining is not a complete strategy.
6. Distribution pipework
Pipe size, layout, fittings and future branches determine how much pressure and airflow reach equipment. A ring main can be useful on some sites, but the final layout should suit the building and demand pattern.
7. Electrical supply
Confirm actual available capacity, upstream protection, existing loads, running current, starting behavior, cable route and isolation. The internal main-switch rating does not prove the available supply.
8. Ventilation and heat
The compressor and dryer reject heat. Provide clean cooling air, discharge paths and service clearances. Avoid recirculation of hot air.
9. Controls and pressure settings
Set the system around the real downstream requirement. Excess pressure can increase operating cost and leakage. Control behavior should be considered with storage and demand variation.
10. Service access
Filters, drains, panels and major assemblies must remain accessible. The shortest possible footprint is not useful if routine or major service becomes impractical.
Total Air Station systems
PM10 and PM20 Total Air Stations package the compressor, receiver and main treatment components together. They can simplify planning where the integrated arrangement suits the application.
Base Mount systems
PM10, PM20 and PM30 Base Mounts allow the receiver, dryer and filters to be independently selected. They suit plant-room systems, existing infrastructure or applications with more specific treatment and storage requirements.
Leaks, maintenance and future demand
Leaks reduce available capacity and increase operating hours. Include a realistic allowance in planning, but do not use a larger compressor as a substitute for identifying and repairing significant leaks.
Document the system, isolation points, drains, service intervals and product versions so future maintenance is based on controlled information.
Frequently asked questions
Can the compressor be selected before the dryer and receiver?
Initial sizing can begin with the compressor, but the complete system should be reviewed before the layout and order are finalised.
Does a bigger pipe always solve pressure drop?
Pipe size is important, but fittings, filters, regulators, layout and peak flow also affect pressure.
Can an existing receiver be reused?
Potentially, subject to condition, capacity, pressure rating, registration and suitability confirmed by appropriate parties.
Why use a Base Mount?
It provides flexibility to select and position storage and treatment independently.
Review the system before individual components are locked in
Provide the equipment demand, pressure, site layout, electrical information and existing infrastructure. Pneumatix, your dealer and the relevant installers can then coordinate the system decisions.