a.
Capacity. Output flow capacity should be large enough to support
the operating requirements of the facility. If the compressor supports a
recompression chamber, the capacity should be equal to or greater than the
compressed air or ventilation requirement unless there is a large storage
capacity. If the compressor is to support a saturation complex, the capacity
should be large enough to replenish the storage capacity within a moderate
time frame in the event of an emergency requirement.
b. Pressure. Discharge pressure of the compressor should not exceed
the working pressure of the piping system or storage flasks.
c. Purity. Air purity of compressor discharge should be as clean as
possible for breathing media.
d. Reliability.
Completely reliable and low maintenance compressors
are available in several types. The most common and most preferred is the
reciprocating type compressor. When an oil-lubricated compressor is
selected, it is possible to meet the breathing gas standards through the use
of oil separators and special filtration equipment.
4. OIL FILTER AND SEPARATOR. The most effective oil filtration and separator
system for an oil-lubricated compressor is the coalescing filter element.
5.
STORAGE FLASKS. The flasks designed to store compressed air must meet
specific requirements more stringent than that for other breathing gasses.
Consideration must be made for the moisture content and extracting the water.
The size of the flask and the desired storage pressure must also be primary.
The bottles should be stored so that a drain valve is in the lowest position.
If the flask is to be mounted to stand upright, a drain valve must be located
in the lower point. If the bottle's valving is located at the lowest point,
then a valve must be installed as part of the piping as shown in Figure 6-10.
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