OTC Insights Team
Established in 1963, OTC Industrial Technologies is one of the largest industrial distributors & service providers in the United States. We're committed to seeing industrial operations advance through expert technical solutions & unmatched support using our years of experience.
Inadequate compressed air. Low pressure. Air supply shutdowns. Problems like these can disable your operation and affect the productivity of the workforce.
If you're looking to improve your industrial compressed air supply while eliminating those problems, there are a few options. Here are a few tips that can provide you with long-term solutions for your air supply challenges.
Unlocking Efficient Compressed Air Supply for Manufacturing
The first step in solving your compressed air issues is to see it as a utility. Just like electrical power or access to the internet, consistent service is necessary.
Perform an Air Audit
The first step to improving your air supply is identifying where the problem may be and then implementing a solution. Typically, manufacturers will work with an outside vendor or resource to conduct the audit.
Air audits are a great way to improve your supply of compressed air. An air audit will help you determine how much air you're using, what your peak demand is, and what your system's capacity is. It can also uncover problems within the system. For example, you may have enough capacity for the air compressor, but not enough for the end user. This could be a sign of a leak or deficiency in your system.
Implement an Industrial Air Supply Solution
For the air audit, you should have an idea of the issues that are causing an inconsistent or unreliable compressed air supply. Your choice of actions after the audit could include:
- Check for Leaks. Perform regular checks to ensure there aren't any leaks coming from hoses, tubes, fittings, pipe joints, couplings, valves, or quick disconnects.
- Review Compressed Air Operation Standards. Check with the compressed air manufacturer on baseline operation for your equipment, including when the equipment needs to be taken offline for maintenance. This information should inform your operational schedule.
- Evaluate Compressed Air Pressure. You may be tempted to increase air pressure rather than address the root problems causing inadequate compressed air supply. Keep in mind, raising the pressure will raise energy costs, while a reduction of two psi in compressor output pressure can save as much as 1% on energy consumption.
- Install a Monitoring System. Keeping track of your air usage, and identifying potential problems before they occur, can help you avoid production stoppages. A monitoring system can help you optimize your system's efficiency and reduce your energy consumption and costs.
- Upgrade Compressed Air Piping. If your piping is too complicated or inadequate, your compressed air will struggle to reach your end users. Work with a compressed air expert to evaluate your piping and implement upgrades when necessary.
- Change Filters. Pressure drops can occur when your filter is the wrong size, or it becomes clogged. Check the condition of your filter and make sure it is clean and the right size. You should implement a maintenance schedule for replacing filters.
- Add an Air Dryer. Moisture can cause problems with your compressed air supply. If you live in a humid climate, an air dryer can remove the moisture from the air, which helps your compressor run more efficiently.
- Rental Compressed Air. Renting an air compressor can be a great option for businesses that don't have the upfront capital to purchase their own equipment. It can also be a good option for businesses that only use compressed air intermittently. When renting, be sure to choose a reputable company with high-quality equipment.
- Purchase the DIRECTAIR® Utility Service. Finally, moving to DIRECTAIR® utility service can be a great way to improve your compressed air supply and eliminate all the challenges you have with compressed air supply. DIRECTAIR® is a utility service that delivers high-quality, purified compressed air using compressors that are installed, monitored, maintained, and operated by OTC at your site. This service can eliminate the need for purchasing and replacing an onsite compressor, which saves you money on energy costs.
Solve Compressed Air Supply Problems with OTC
Rather than spending time and money on temporary fixes for your compressed air problems, problems that are not only costly but can impact overall production, take the time to properly evaluate the issue and implement a long-term solution.
Contact OTC if you have any questions about which option is right for you. Our team of experts can conduct an Air Audit, providing the information and options you need for compressed air.
