Feature

The other side of the compressed air story

Compressed air, whilst utilising a ‘free’ working fluid, is one of the highest energy-consuming utilities found in today’s industrial premises. Having spent 30 years in the energy field reviewing many industrial applications, Tony Baldwin CEMI, Energy & Resource Specialist, SMC Pneumatics UK Ltd, says that his first step most commonly involves looking at the generation and distribution of compressed air.

02/11/2020 12:43:10

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More recently, I’ve been made aware of significant technological advances that are now available from manufacturers. These can have a significant impact on the use and costs attributable to this utility.

Vacuum ejectors

Vacuum ejectors are prevalent in many factories for picking and placing products whilst activities are carried out such as palletisers, jigs and component placement. The typical vacuum ejector uses compressed air
through a venturi orifice to create and maintain the vacuum force. Modern vacuum ejectors employ a sensing vacuum switch that isolates the compressed air line at the same time as a valve
closes the vacuum line to the cup. This stops compressed air usage when the correct vacuum level is sensed. Should the vacuum pressure deteriorate, the solenoid switches the compressed air line back on
to create further vacuum until the pressure is re-established. Switching vacuum ejectors to the modern alternative can reduce compressed air usage by up to 90 percent.

Read the full article in the November issue of DPA

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.