An air collector (receiver) is a metal tank filled with compressed air. This device is used in conjunction with compressor stations, as well as ammonia, freon, nitrogen, and other units. The main functions of this equipment is quick pressure stabilization and pulsation reduction when feeding compressed air to the compressor—to ensure its smooth operation. Also, air collectors are used for long-term storage and colling.
Design versions:
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An air collector is a cylindrical head with an elliptical head. Its housing is made of low-alloy or carbon steel, covered with a protective layer of paint. Models are fitted with a safety valve, inlet and outlet pipes. Air receivers may also have a pressure gauge, shut-off valves, and other mechanisms. Modern equipment types are classified:
- by purpose: linear (compensating), protective, drain, and circulation
- by housing orientation: vertical and horizontal
- by method of operation: direct-flow and static
Equipment performance calculations
An air collector’s efficiency hinges on the proper determination of its technical parameters. In particular, a model’s capacity should correspond to the volume of air-gas masses the compressor unit pumps every minute.
The operating volume, which may vary from 0.5 to 100 cubic meter, is another important parameter to consider. It must cover 30-40% of the compressor’s capacity. Also, an air receiver’s performance calculation should consider the system’s operating pressure and other parameters.
Installation and connection
An air receiver should be installed in a special room with ventilation and free access. The tank is placed on a foundation and fixed on legs with rubber shock absorbers. After that, a safety valve, shut-off valves, pressure gauge, pipes, and hoses are connected. Then, the tightness of all joints and connections is checked, and the system is test-driven.
When using a large number of devices, they can be connected in parallel (maximum capacity) or as a series (lower capacity). No special permits are required for the installation of air collectors with the rate volume of up to 0.9 cubic meters. Tanks over 1 cubic meters in volume are subject to mandatory registration; a certificate should be obtained from Gosgortechnadzor (a local technical supervision body).
Air receiver operation specifics
The following requirements should be observed during the operation of air receivers:
- The equipment can be operated in regions with the seismic activity level up to Level 9 (on a standard 12-level scale).
- Nitrogen, argon, ammonia, and other chemicals must be stored in special containers that were manufactured with allowances made for the use of these. substances.
- The ambient temperature in the area where an air receiver is deployed must not fall bellow -60 °C, while the supporting conditions should correspond to the unit’s climatic category.