The compressor room must remove the heat every machine rejects, or the room temperature rises until the compressor overheats. Good ventilation keeps intake air cool and clean, which directly affects efficiency and reliability.
Airflow requirements
Calculate the total heat rejection of all compressors and dryers, then size the ventilation to hold the room within the machine ambient rating. Ventilation openings should be at low level for intake and high level for exhaust so hot air leaves naturally.
Design principles
- Separate the hot exhaust from the cool intake
- Size ducts for low velocity and low pressure drop
- Use fan assistance where natural flow is insufficient
- Keep the intake away from dust, fumes and rain
Protecting the machine
A compressor that breathes its own hot exhaust runs hotter and consumes more energy. Clean intake air extends filter life, while a well-ventilated room protects the motor and electronics and keeps the machine within warranty conditions.