Types of Air Compressors Used in Glass Manufacturing

The types of compressors suitable for glass manufacturing need to align with the specific requirements of the processes involved, which can vary for different applications and between sheet glass and bottle glass production. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the differences between the types of air compressors, their features, and advantages specifically for the glass industry.

Rotary Screw Compressors vs. Other Compressor Types:

Rotary Screw Compressors for Glass Manufacturing:

Rotary screw compressors are generally more suited to the demands of the glass industry, providing a balance of performance and energy efficiency that other compressors struggle to match. They deliver high volumes of air, operating continuously at constant pressure, which is essential for pneumatic transport and glass forming processes, and to meet the demands of around-the-clock production schedules. Rotary screw compressors can be oil-lubricated or oil-free, depending on the specific requirements of the application. Their ability to adjust pressure and volume makes them versatile for various stages of glass production.

Other Types of Compressors for Glass Manufacturing:

Other Types of Compressors, such as piston compressors, may be used in smaller operations or for specific tasks that require high-pressure bursts rather than continuous flow. However, they may not offer the same level of efficiency or durability for large-scale, continuous operations typical in glass manufacturing.

Oil-Free vs. Oil-Lubricated Screw Compressors:

Oil-free compressors equipped with an air dryer are recommended for glass manufacturing because they supply air that is both dry and free from oil and particle impurities. This is particularly important for applications where the air comes into direct contact with glass, such as the bottle blowing and shaping processes. The clean air provided by oil-free compressors ensures that the final glass product is of high quality and integrity.

Oil-lubricated screw compressors are typically more cost-effective initially and capable of delivering higher pressures, however, they pose the risk of oil contamination within the compressed air. This can lead to quality issues in glass products and requires additional filtration systems to remove oil vapours from the compressed air, resulting in increasing operational and maintenance costs in the long run.

How to Choose the Best Compressor for Glass Manufacturing

Understanding what your glass manufacturing plant needs from compressed air is important to ensure the production process is efficient, reliable, and cost-effective. Read more about glass manufacturing applications and compressors here.

Typically, higher pressure and higher volume compressed air systems are necessary to power equipment and actuators, whereas lower pressure compressed air systems are required for inflating glass into moulds. It is essential to discuss your needs with an air expert so that your compressed air systems are perfectly aligned with the operational demands of your glass manufacturing plant, guaranteeing a seamless and productive workflow.

Mobile Compressed Air: Your Partner in Tailored Compressor Solutions for Glass Manufacturing

At Mobile Compressed Air, we understand the critical role of reliable, high-quality compressed air in the glass manufacturing industry. As a leading provider of industrial compressors in Adelaide and across South Australia, we are dedicated to offering tailored compressed air solutions that meet the unique needs of our glass manufacturing clients. Trust us to enhance your production efficiency and ensure the superior quality of your glass products. Contact us today!