Where is compressed air used?

Compressed air is used as an energy source and as active air

As an energy source compressed air is often used to power pneumatic machinery such as drills, hammers, wrenches and grinders.

Active air is air that comes directly into contact with the product. For this reason, it must be clean, dry and contaminant free. To ensure these standards are met, many choose to use oil-free air compressors or air tools to help clean and dry the compressed air.

Some of the core industries that use compressed air include:

Chemicals
Manufacturers of chemicals will want to ensure the quality of the products they deliver. Due to the unstable nature of chemicals, it is important that the compressed air used is clean and oil-free. Uses within this industry include material handling, air curtains and product drying.

Automotive
Compressed air plays an integral role in the production and manufacture of cars. From assembly using air-operated robots to the finishing coat of paint using compressed air spraying tools, the automotive industry relies on compressors to produce high-quality vehicles.

Industrial
Compressed air is used widely in industrial applications including for construction jobs, mechanical repairs jobs, road maintenance, factory manufacture, production lines and many industrial processes.

Food & Beverage
Since any food or drink product must be fit for human consumption, any active air that comes into contact with it must meet stringent health and safety standards. Within this industry, some of the common uses include air knives, product handling, food filling machines, packaging and fluid pumps.

Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceutical companies rely on compressed air for process air used for cleaning, aeration and product moving as well as for packaging medication. Due to the high health and safety standards surrounding pharmaceuticals, a sterile environment must always be maintained. Compressed air used within this industry must be completely clean and contaminant free.

Oil-free is the predominant compressor type used in heathcare, pharmaceutical and laboratory operations and the food and beverage industry.