Air leaks are very common in compressed air systems. The key is to know how to detect and fix them as the cost of even a tiny leak adds up to a large expense if left unattended.   How common are compressed air leaks? Compressed air leaks are widespread in all applications. Not only are they common, but they are time-consuming to find and fix. In the average manufacturing operation, 20-30% of the total energy consumption is compressed air. On average, 30% of that expense is due to compressed air leakage. How costly are compressed air leaks? Here are 2... Read more »

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By Derrick Taylor, Director, Fluid-Aire Dynamics What is the best pipe material to use for a compressed air system? Manufacturers have many options when it comes to compressed air piping materials. As with most decisions, the choice in piping material comes down to tradeoffs between cost, performance, longevity and aesthetics. Here are some of the most common materials used for compressed air piping and the pros and cons of each. Plastic Pipe Plastic compressed air piping is cheap, lightweight, easy to install and non-corrosive. However, not all plastics are the same. If you are using plastic piping, it is important... Read more »

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200+ Manufacturers Have Air Leaks Fixed Free Through “Fix-it-Now” Program In Chicagoland, Fluid-Aire Dynamics has been hard at work helping manufacturers save money and energy by fixing compressed air system leaks through ComEd’s Leak Repair Program. Last month, that work was recognized by ComEd. We are proud to have been recognized for the Most Projects Submitted in 2019 at the ComEd Industrial Systems Energy Efficiency Service Provider (EESP) Kick-Off event in February. Raj Raghavan, an Energy Advisor for the ComEd Energy Efficiency Program, says, “Fluid-Aire is a great group of people to work with. No matter who you interact with... Read more »

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Used compressed air equipment can be a great deal for companies who need to control or reduce capital expenditures—an important consideration in times of economic uncertainty. Fluid-Aire Dynamics has dozens of reconditioned used air compressors and air dryers available now. Is buying used right for your company? Used Compressed Air Equipment vs. New: Which is Right for You? Should you buy new or used compressed air equipment? The decision is much like deciding between a new or used car. The new model will come with a full manufacturer’s warranty and all of the latest safety features and bells and whistles.... Read more »

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Did you know that you could get leaks in your compressed air system fixed for free? Yes, free. This is not a trick! It’s a program from ComEd—and a benefit you’re entitled to as a ComEd client. Fluid-Aire Dynamics is an approved service provider under the ComEd Fix-It-Now leak repair program, a benefit provided for ComEd customers in Northern Illinois. Here’s how it works: Contact Natasha Taylor, Fix-It-Now Program Specialist, at 224-529-1408 or natasha.taylor@fluidairedynamics.com to sign up. Our technician finds leaks in your system using an ultrasonic detector, which can detect even the smallest air leak. If the leaks can... Read more »

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There is really only one key difference between fixed speed and variable speed drive ; Variable speed drive (VSD) rotary screw air compressors are an increasingly popular choice for companies seeking to reduce energy costs and qualify for energy company incentives. How do you know if a VSD air compressor is right for you? Learn the benefits of VSD, when to use a VSD vs. a fixed speed compressor, and why you may want to consider using both. What is a Variable Speed Drive Air Compressor? A variable speed drive (VSD) controls the frequency supplied to the drive motor on the air... Read more »

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What is a compressed air receiver tank—and how do you know if you need one? Our 2020 guide to compressed air receiver tanks explains how they work, what they do, and how you can use them to maximize the efficiency of your compressed air system.  What Is a Compressed Air Receiver Tank? An air receiver tank (sometimes called an air compressor tank or compressed air storage tank) is exactly what it sounds like: a tank that receives and stores compressed air after it exits the air compressor. This gives you a reserve of compressed air that you can draw on... Read more »

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Air compressor preventative maintenance (PM) is essential for the safe and efficient operation of your compressed air system. But most facility maintenance technicians don’t know all the ins and outs of proper air compressor equipment maintenance. Here’s what building managers and maintenance staff should know—and how you can reduce the burden of compressed air system PMs. Why Air Compressor Maintenance Matters A poorly maintained air compressor will end up costing your company money, both directly and indirectly. Some of these costs include: Higher energy costs due to overloaded filters, blockages, inadequate lubrication, and other problems that cause your air compressor... Read more »

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A compressed air receiver tank (sometimes called an air compressor tank or compressed air storage tank) is a type of pressure vessel that holds compressed air under high pressure. Air enters the air receiver tank after it exits the air compressor and is held there for future use. It provides a reserve of compressed air that you can draw on without running your air compressor. What is the Purpose of an Air Receiver Tank? The air receiver tank has three main functions in your compressed air system: It stores compressed air that can be used for short, high-demand events. It... Read more »

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How does cold weather affect your compressed air system? Freezing winter temperatures can have adverse effects on your air compressor, air dryer, and compressed air system accessories. Here’s what you need to know about cold weather air compressor maintenance and operation. Most compressed air systems are designed to operate in temperatures above 40° Fahrenheit. In the winter months, if your system is not in a heated indoor environment, ambient air temperatures may drop below freezing. When this happens, your compressed air system may sustain both short-term and long-lasting damage. This happens because compressed air systems generate condensate, which can freeze... Read more »

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What is the Optimal Temperature Range for a Compressed Air System? How does ambient temperature affect the performance of your air compressor? Temperature plays a bigger role in air compressor performance than you might think. Air compressors are often subject to temperature extremes, especially if they are installed outdoors or in a warehouse without temperature controls. Large swings in temperature can lead to air compressor overheating in the summer or freezing in the winter. Understanding the optimal operating temperature for your compressed air system will help you avoid heat- or cold-related damage to your air compressor and extend the life... Read more »

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Inline filters are used to keep your compressed air clean and free of particulates and oils that are passed from your compressed air equipment into your system. These filters can technically be placed anywhere in the compressed air piping systems. Some of the most common placements are the following: Directly after the commercial air compressor Before and after the air dryer (refrigerated air dryers, desiccant air dryers) Just prior to point of use (i.e. on each compressed air drop) All of the above Or any other way that is specific to your system’s needs Keep in mind, the better the compressed... Read more »

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