How Single Stage Reciprocating Air Compressor Works?
In single stage reciprocating air compressor the entire compression is carried out in a single cylinder. If the compression is affected in one end of the piston & cylinder then it is known as single acting & if the compression is affected in both ends of piston & cylinder then it is known as double acting reciprocating air compressor. The opening & closing of simple check valve (plate or spring valve) is depend upon difference in pressure, if mechanically operated valves are used for suction & discharge then their functioning is controlled by cams. The weight of air in the cylinder will be zero when the piston is at top dead centre, if we neglect clearance volume. When piston starts moving downwards, the pressure inside the cylinder falls below atmospheric pressure& suction valve/inlet valve opens. The air is drawn into the cylinder through suction filter element. This operation is known as suction stroke. When piston moves upwards, compresses the air in cylinder & inlet valve closes w
