Air Compressor Cooler

The compression process in an air compressor generates heat as a byproduct. To ensure optimal performance and prevent damage, it is essential to remove this heat before further compression or use. This necessitates the inclusion of a pre-cooler, intercooler, and aftercooler in the air compressor system.

Intercooler:

In industrial settings, the majority of air compressors operate as multi-stage designs. This configuration helps maximize the cost efficiency of compressed gas production. During the compression of air, heat is generated, leading to air expansion and necessitating additional horsepower for subsequent compression stages. The intercooler plays a crucial role in multi-stage air compressors, specifically in the first and second stages. Its primary function is to provide cooler, drier, and denser air for the next stage of compression.

Aftercooler:

Following the intercooler, a heat exchanger known as the aftercooler is employed to remove heat from the compressed air. The most commonly used type of aftercooler in compressors utilizes either cold ambient air or cold water as a cooling medium. This cooling process not only reduces the air temperature but also effectively removes moisture from the compressed air, enhancing its quality.

Oil Cooler:

The engine oil cooler serves the purpose of allowing the cooling system of an engine to dissipate excess heat from the oil. Typically, this type of cooler employs a water-to-oil heat exchanger. The engine coolant flows around the tubes of the cooler while the oil passes through the tubes, facilitating efficient heat transfer and maintaining optimal oil temperature.