Higher ambient temperatures impacts compressed air installations. How can we help you keep things flowing smoothly?

Let’s answer the first question right away. Higher ambient temperatures influence moisture in the inlet air. For example, did you know that at 35°C (max. 40gr/m³), there is up to 230% more moisture in the air than measured at 20°C (max 17gr/m³)?

When the compressor takes in compressed air at a significantly higher ambient temperature (e.g. 35°C instead of 20°C) than usual, it will have to work "harder" (read consume more energy) to achieve the same amount of Nm³. Imagine inflating a balloon. If you put it in the sun, it will expand. But, if you put it in the fridge, it will shrink. So, you will have to inflate more balloons in the sun to have the same volume.

In addition, the increased air temperature has a detrimental effect on the oil transfer rate of oil-lubricated compressors. Consequently, more oil vapors will form, which will hardly be separated by standard filters. This is because these filters provide a filtration capacity at a reference of 20°C compressed air(!) temperature.

Therefore, the proper functioning, the condition of the compressed air system, and the correct type of dryer are of utmost importance. And, like the compressor itself, your dryers need to be well-ventilated and get the coolest inlet air possible.

There’s good news and bad news. The bad? It doesn’t end here. The good is we can help.

The first hurdle isn’t actually summer. Spring … For people allergic to pollen or grass, this isn’t the best of times. Unfortunately, compressors and cooling systems are affected by this as well, which causes the nominal capacity of the existing system to drop significantly. Considering what we have already mentioned above (more water and oil present in the compressed air), it’s safe to say the compressed air filters also go through a tough time.

You have to admit, with all these hurdles in the air, it’s no wonder that installations fail once temperatures start to rise. Especially those that are no longer adapted to the current climatic conditions.

Despite all your precautions, do you still have an emergency with your compressed air system this summer? Or are you updating your compressor installation and require efficient and high-quality compressed air solutions? Do you require additional compressed air or dryers for a certain amount of time? You name it, we can help. Contact your local Atlas Copco Specialty Rental Expert today.