Compressed air is air that is kept under a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure. It is the same air that we breathe, but it has been forced into a smaller volume and kept under pressure. Compressed air is used in many industrial processes and is often regarded as the fourth utility, after electricity, natural gas, and water. It is used for many purposes, including:
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Powering tools and equipment: Compressed air can be used as an energy source to power air tools and production equipment.
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Pneumatics: Compressed air is used in pneumatics, which is the use of pressurized gases to do work.
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Breathing gas: Compressed air is used as a breathing gas by underwater divers, firefighters, mine rescue workers, and industrial workers in hazardous atmospheres.
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Pneumatic post: Compressed air is used in pneumatic post systems, which use capsules to move paper and small items.
Compressed air is made up of mostly hydrogen, oxygen, and water vapor, just like regular air. When air is compressed, heat is generated, and the pressure of the air is increased. The compression process is usually powered by an electric motor. Approximately 10% of all industrial electricity consumption can be attributed to the production of compressed air. Compressed air has several benefits, including low maintenance costs, the ability to handle high loads over long periods without the risk of overheating, and ease of storage and transport. It is often seen as a clean and safe energy source that can be easily used for a number of different industrial purposes.
