For example, if the ambient air is compressed 8 times (from 8 m³ to 1 m³), the pressure increases from 1 bar(a) absolute to 8 bar(a) absolute and the volume decreases 8 times, from 8 m³ to 1 m³.
Compressed air in its untreated form has high temperature and high moisture content.
Compressed air is one of the forms of energy to do work in manufacturing or service industry. Though it is the most inefficient form of energy, it is widely used in various applications as it can be easily transported, its parameters – pressure, flow, temperature can be altered as per requirements. It does not cause spark hazard in an explosive atmosphere and can be used under wet conditions without electric-shock hazard. When used with tools, it increased productivity and helps in automation for repetitive, intermittent or continuous work cycles.
Applications of compressed air include rock drills, pneumatic portable tools, pneumatic cylinders for movement, pavement breakers, riveters, forging presses, paint sprayers, blast cleaners, and atomizers, etc.
(See also, “Compression”, “Air compressor types”)