Pneumatic tools.

What are pneumatic tools/ air compressors?

A pneumatic tool, air tool, air-powered tool, or pneumatic-powered tool is a type of power tool, driven by compressed air supplied by an air compressor. Pneumatic tools can also be driven by compressed carbon dioxide stored in small cylinders allowing for portability.

A compressor is a mechanical device that increases the pressure of a gas by reducing its volume. An air compressor is a specific type of gas compressor. Compressors are similar to pumps: both increase the pressure on a fluid and both can transport the fluid through a pipe.

The four most common air compressors are.

Rotary screw compressor

Rotary screw compressors are some of the easiest air compressors to take care of. This is because they are equipped with an internal cooling system and do not require much maintenance. They are typically large, industrial-sized machines that can either be lubricated with oil or run oil-free. Rotary screw air compressors generate energy via two internal rotors that turn in opposite directions. The air gets trapped between the two opposing rotors, and builds up pressure within the housing. Because of the internal cooling system, these air compressors are designed for continuous use, they range in power from 5 to 350 horsepower.

Reciprocating air compressor

Reciprocating air compressors are typically found at smaller work sites such as garages and home construction projects. Unlike the rotary screw compressor, the reciprocating air compressor is not designed for continuous use. A reciprocating has more moving parts than a rotary screw compressor, and these parts are lubricated with oil for smoother movement. These compressors work via a piston inside a cylinder, which compresses and displace the air to build pressure.

Axial compressor

Axial air compressors are not typically used in construction projects but are instead found in high-speed engines on ships or planes. They have a high-efficiency rate but are much more expensive than other types of air compressors, and can get up to many thousands of horsepower, which is why they are mainly reserved for aerospace research.

Centrifugal compressor

Centrifugal air compressors slow and cool the incoming air through a diffuser in order to build up potential energy. Because of the multi-phase compression process, centrifugal compressors are able to produce a high amount of energy in a relatively small machine. They require less maintenance than the rotary screw or reciprocating compressors and some types can produce oil-free air. They are typically used for more demanding construction sites such as chemical plants or steel manufacturing centers, as they can reach around 1,000 horsepower.

Safety when using an air compressor. 

Do not use gas air compressors indoors. - Perform a routine safety check before each use of your air compressor. Check hoses, ensure proper power supply, check the oil level, etc. - Always wear eye protection and hearing protection when operating your air compressor.

Dangers and hazards.

Unfortunately, compressed air is not often recognized as a hazard by its users, which can lead to widespread misuse, serious injury, or death. leading to potential injuries such as air embolism, ruptured eardrums or organs, and dislodged eyeballs; • High noise – can result in temporary or permanent hearing loss.

Preventive action and servicing.

1. Read the user's manual.

2. Tighten the nuts and bolts.

3. Clean the intake valves.

4. Inspect the hoses.

5. Change the air filter.

6. Drain condensation from the tanks.

7. Clean the compressor fuel tank.

8. Inspect the compressor shut-off system.

9. Change out the oil.

10. Change the air/oil separator.

Different types of air tool connections.

Specific safety when using.

Impact driver - Read the Manual of Instruction provided for your device, keep your working space tidy and clean, Clean the Impact Driver properly before using, Ensure proper accessories are being used.

Air ratchet - Always wear safety glasses with side protectors when using an impact wrench. Never wear a tie, loose clothing, a watch, rings, or jewelry when using an air-impact wrench. wrench. Only use impact wrench sockets that are specifically designed for this type of tool.

Dust off gun - Do not dust off your clothing. Do not blow at your or anyone else skin. Make sure there are no faults with the machinery and make sure to have full PPE on.

Air riveter - When using a rivet gun or air hammer, always install a safety clip or retainer in order to prevent the set from being ejected during operation. Never point rivet guns toward anyone or "dead-end" them against yourself or anyone else. Noise is another issue associated with pneumatic tools.

All information for this post is from BIGrentz, Here is the URL to their site.

https://www.bigrentz.com/blog/air-compressor-types

All other relevant sites.

https://www.cp.com/en-us/compressors/expert-corner/blog/air-compressor-safety-tips-what-to-watch-for#:~:text=%2D%20Do%20not%20use%20gas%20air,when%20operating%20your%20air%20compressor.

https://www.ehso.emory.edu/content-guidelines/Toolbox/ToolboxTraining_CompressedAirSafety.pdf

https://medium.com/@enegitech1/what-are-the-safety-tips-and-tricks-for-impact-driver-users-17c45090e8b4