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Compressed Air

Compressed Air

Compressed Air

(OP)
Can you direct me to a good design guide for high pressure compressed air systems.  I have an application for 2000 psig compressed air.  I need to include the compressor, dryer and aftercooler as well as the interconnecting piping.

RE: Compressed Air

If you could come back with a little more information it would be helpful in assisting you.
Like:
What is the air going to be used for?

What is the volume of air needed?

RE: Compressed Air

(OP)
The air will be stored in 4 horizontal tanks 5' diameter by 30' long.  The rate of compressed air consumption will be about 250 scfm maximum.  This is part of a research facility at a university. The scope of the project includes a new air compressor,dryer and associated piping connections.
Thanks
Danra

RE: Compressed Air

Danra,
I may be wrong but I think the scope of this project is beyond the intent of this Forum.  

I think you should look around for an engineering firm that has a proven track record in the compressed gas field.

There are to many considerations in yur project to handle piece by piece.  The design of the storage vessels themselves is a design job with numerous special considerations.

Though components, valves, piping, etc, are available to handle your design requirements it requires careful selection by someone well versed in the art to assemble a safe and reliable system.

Good Luck

RE: Compressed Air

I'd check out the design of supersonic windtunnels, but agree, you need to get specific professional advice, the explosive potential of your proposed design will need a careful evaluation. Let's see, volume is 120 m^3, pressure is about 10^7 Pa, so the crude energy is 10^9 J, or about the same as a perfectly combusted explosion of half a car's fuel tank of petrol. ie you will be able to flatten a building.

Cheers

Greg Locock

RE: Compressed Air

Danra, Try the "Compressed Air & Gas Handbook" by the Compressed Air and Gas Institute, published by Prentice Hall.

Hope this helps.
saxon

RE: Compressed Air

I have experience in the exact application. In brief you will most likely need:

Reciprocating Air Compressor, 5 stg will work best, 4 stg is ok, but not as reliable.
\/
Pulsation Device (or a vessel with some volume) between compressor and dryer
\/
Desiccant type Dryer may be required - depending on what type of research is being done.
\/
Dew Point moinitor (if critical)
\/
Storage Tanks
\/
demand

Interconnecting piping needs to be propely designed and installed. Dangerous scenarios can develop if this is not done.

Unclesyd is right about the requirement of experience in the design. Feel free to inquire for further direction to robinchandy@msn.com

RE: Compressed Air

Danra - The response relative to the wind tunnel was right on the money.  I am the technical field representative for Lectrodryer who has done the same type projects for NASA in the past. We can offer assistance if needed.

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