Need to compress air given rotary motion input

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods to convert rotary motion into compressed air, exploring various types of pumps and compressors suitable for this application. Participants consider different technologies and their suitability based on specific requirements such as pressure, speed, and application context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about using hydraulic gear pumps for compressing air, expressing uncertainty about their applicability.
  • Another suggests looking into swash plate pumps as a potential alternative.
  • A participant proposes centrifugal turbines, similar to those in turbochargers, as a viable option for air compression.
  • Discussion includes the consideration of piston-style compressors, with one participant humorously referencing "choo choo train style."
  • Diaphragm and bladder pumps are mentioned as capable of generating significant air pressure, even when running empty.
  • A participant introduces screw-type compressors and roots supercharger style compressors, emphasizing the importance of factors like air volume, pressure, temperature, and rotary motion speed in selecting the appropriate compressor type.
  • Specific recommendations are made for different compressor types based on speed and pressure requirements, including centrifugal compressors for high shaft speeds and diaphragm types for low-speed applications.
  • Rotary vane pumps are suggested for lower pressures and mid-speed applications, with details on their operational mechanics and efficiency considerations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of opinions on the best type of compressor for converting rotary motion into compressed air, indicating that multiple competing views remain. There is no consensus on a single solution, as various factors influence the choice of compressor.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of specific application parameters such as pressure ratios, rotary motion speed, and air volume, which remain unresolved in the discussion.

CosmosK
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Hey all. I'm looking to convert rotary motion into compressed air. I'm seeing there are hydraulic gear pumps I can buy, although I'm not sure I can use them with air. Any advice? Thanks
 
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have you looked into swash plate pumps?
 
No, I haven't heard of those. I will check them out. Seems the hydraulic pump may just be to move fluid, not compress it.
 
yes sorry, i misread the original post.

perhaps a centrifugal turbine much like that used in a turbocharger would be a good option.
 
I'm now looking at piston style, you know choo choo train style :) Thanks for your input!
 
There are diaphragm and bladder pumps that can pump thick viscous fluids that when run empty produce enough air pressure to fire a tennis ball through plate glass, don't ask...lol :)):woot::DD
 
How about a screw type compressor or roots supercharger style compressor?

How much air are we talking about and how much pressure and temperature? how fast a is your 'rotary motion'? Those will be a MAJOR factors in choosing the right type of compressor for your application...

pressure ratios of 3:1 and high shaft speeds, go with a centrifugal compressor such as is found in turbochargers... they can even be compounded to provide higher pressure ratios.
very low speed compressors? I'd go with a diaphragm type
Medium speed? I'd go with a piston type
higher speeds, low pressure? something like a supercharger
higher speeds and pressures? screw compressors
 
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Lower speed most likely. Thanks for the input!
 
Another type of pump that is good for lower pressures (a few PSI) and mid-speed applications is the rotary vane pump.. Many of the "air injection" pumps for catalytic convertor vehicles use these.. some types the vanes are forced into contact with the (offset) housing by springs or centrifugal force, others prevent close contact (thus wear) by preventing contact but keeping close tolerances by linking the vanes to an offset support bearing.. they lose a little volumetric efficiency due to leakage past the vanes, but have less friction and long life
 

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