Hydraulic air compressors are extremely important aids on ships because they allow the operation of many main and service systems.
Basics of air compressors for marine applications
The main purpose of the compressor, as the name suggests, is to compress the air or any fluid to reduce its volume according to the principles of thermodynamics. This equipment consists of an air cylinder that can store compressed air at a specified pressure.
It is used for the production of compressed air useful for various purposes on board: from allowing the correct functioning of the essential equipment and those supplying various systems, or to allow the performance of a series of processes ranging from simple cleaning of the filters to larger and more crucial ones such as starting the main engine and maintaining both the engine and deck departments.
For these reasons, the presence of air compressors on ships is practically a must.
Generally two types of compressors are used on ships:
– the main air compressor, which generates high pressure (usually from a minimum of 30 bar) and is used to drive the main engine
– the service air compressor, which produces low pressure (7 bar) and is used for control and minor tasks
Uses of compressed air in marine applications
As mentioned earlier, the compressed air produced by air compressors is used for a variety of purposes on ships, ranging from starting the main engine, to cleaning and maintenance. While the specific uses may differ from ship to ship, the main daily uses of a ship air compressor are:
– starting the main engine, the auxiliary engine
– starting the emergency generator and the emergency fire pump
– operation of pneumatic tools and machinery intended for cleaning with a pressurized water jet or similar
– lifeboat movement management
– supply water to the living quarters and various parts of the ship
– in portable pneumatic pumps for the transfer of oil, water and bilge
– pressurized spray painting
– operation of the fog horns
– movement of the ship’s maneuvering system propellers
– regulation of the operation of the control valves of the accelerator controls and other monitoring systems
To add other key uses of air compressors on ships, feel free to contact us here.
Rely on robust marine solutions: Tecnoter air compressors
The proper functioning of systems on board a ship is crucial. Support at sea in the event of an unexpected event may be limited and it is essential that the instruments function even in difficult conditions.
For all marine and offshore applications, regardless of harsh conditions, you can rely on Tecnoter’s robust and energy-efficient compressed air solutions.
Tecnoter’s ultimate goal is to provide customers with air compressors that meet their needs on board ships and offer a reduced cost of ownership and maintenance.
For this reason Tecnoter hydraulic air compressors for marine applications are silent and practically maintenance-free, but extremely robust and able to operate in situations where the workload is heavy.
In fact, they are also chosen tools in underwater demolitions because they save the equipment from the risk of breakdowns and wear, as described in this article.
Discover the whole range on the Tecnoter Group website or contact us to find out more.