Experiment No.

4
To determine the air discharge flow rate, mechanical efficiency, overall
efficiency of tangy air compressor.

Apparatus
 Tangy Air Compressor
 Tachometer
 Weights & hangers
 Manometer pressure gauge
 Belt & pulley arrangement
 3 phase electrical motor
 Frictional dynamometer

Figure: Tangy Air Compressor Apparatus

Theory
Compressor
The compressor is a device that is used to increase the pressure of fluids within the
limits of the apparatus box. The fluid that can be liquid, gas or air enters the
compression chamber at low pressure and temperature, where the particles of the
fluid gather. This process provides the fluid that comes out at high pressure and
temperature.
Compressor Working Principles
An air compressor works by drawing in ambient air through an intake valve, then
compressing it to increase pressure. The compression process differs by type: in
rotary screw compressors, two rotating helical screws trap and compress the air,
while in reciprocating (piston) compressors, a piston moves inside a cylinder to
compress the air.
Components of compressor

An air compressor consists of key components that work together to compress and deliver
air efficiently. The system is powered by a prime mover, typically an electric motor or
engine. Air enters through an intake filter to remove contaminants, then moves into the
compression chamber—using pistons in reciprocating compressors or rotors in rotary types.
In reciprocating models, parts like the crankshaft, piston, and valves handle compression,
while rotary compressors use rotating screws or vanes.

Heat is managed with intercoolers and aftercoolers, and compressed air is stored in a
receiver tank. A pressure regulator ensures steady output, while drain and safety valves
handle moisture and excess pressure. Lubrication, cooling systems, and a control panel
support efficient and safe operation.

Tangy Air Compressor

A Tangy Air Compressor is a type of reciprocating compressor widely used for laboratory
and industrial applications. It is a single-stage, single-cylinder, vertical-type compressor that
operates at a speed of 800 rpm. It is driven by a 3-phase electric motor.

Types of compressors
On the Basis of Working Operation
There are two types of compressors:

 Positive displacement compressor

 Dynamic compressor
Types of Positive displacement compressor

Positive displacement compressor work by forcing air into a chamber whose volume
is decreased to compress the air.
It is further divided in to two types:
 Reciprocating compressor
 Rotary compressor

Types of Dynamic Compressor

There is no confined volume in such compressor. They may be of two types.

 Axial flow compressors.

 Centrifugal flow compressor
 Figure 12: Compressor

Procedure

 Before starting the compressor, check the control valve, it must be

completely closed, also check the supply of fuel, lubricating oil and
availability of cooling water.
 Start the compressor with a three-phase electric motor that drives the
compressor with the help of a belt and pulley mechanism.
 Initially store the air in the compressor supply tank at the required pressure of 80 psi.
 Now slightly open the control valve to establish the pressure required for
the next readings.
 While the compressor is running, begin adding weights and then observe
the spring balance reading.
 Determine your speed with the help of a tachometer.
 For air discharge, note the pressure difference on the pressure gauge.
Formulas
Brake Power = 2 πNT /60 ;

Torque= W × r(R)

Input Power (Motor) = √3 VI cos α

flow rate = Q = Cα × Ad × Vα Vα= √29 ∆h

I.P = 𝑛 × p₁ × Vs × [ (𝑝2) -1]

𝑛−1 𝑝1
Vs = x 𝑑2 × L × n = swept volume
π
4
 𝜂𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝 = I . P/ B . P × 100

𝜂𝑟𝑜𝑡 = 1−
Vc n−1
[( p 2/ p 1) −1]
Vs n
𝜂𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙 = I . P/ Motor Power × 100

P₁ = 14.3psi

P₂ = Outlet Pressure

Observations
 Number of Stages = 01
 Number of Cylinders = 01
 Configuration = Vertical Type
 Maximum Speed = 800 rpm
 Stroke length = 4 in
 Bore = 2.54 in
 Cd = Coefficient of discharge = 0.96
 A = Area of venturi meter = 0.416 in2 = 0.000268 m2
 R = 12 in = 0.3048 m
 n = Polytrophic index = 1.3
 P1 = 14.696 psi
 VC = Clearance volume = 2.08 cc

Calculations
Engine Voltag Curren Pressur Height Load Torque Brake Indicate Input
Speed e t e P2 Power d Power Power
(rpm) (V) (A) (psi) (in) (lbs) (Nm) (W) (W) (W)
1491.39
400 420 2 2.9 65 13.5 30.909 9 406.36 1890
1335.15
470 420 2.9 2.9 50 11.4 25 7 363.3 1827
27.127 1065.28
500 420 3 2.6 55 12.5 2 8 363.3 1890
13.563 752.805
530 420 2.6 2.6 45 13.556 6 1 165.159 1638

Flow Mech. Overall Pressur V dQ/dt

Rate Efficiency Efficiency e P2 Flow
rate
 (m³/s) (IP/BP) (IP/Input) (kPa) (cm³) (cm3/s)
0.160269 0.2725 0.2148 119.5 204.14 3278.23
0.288448 0.319 0.199 144.738 5.534 2524.6
0.307712 0.341 0.192 141.317 4.351 2256.4
0.461574 0.221 0.1009 172.37 3.113 2887.15

Graphs
Discussion
Graph 1: Overall Efficiency vs RPM
Overall efficiency declines as engine speed increases. It peaks at 0.21 at 420 RPM and drops to
0.1009 at 530 RPM. This drop is likely due to increased friction, heat loss, and inefficient
combustion at higher speeds. The engine performs most efficiently between 420–470 RPM,
indicating this as the optimal operating range.

Graph 2: Mechanical Efficiency vs RPM

Mechanical efficiency rises from 0.27 at 420 RPM to a peak of 0.319 at 470 RPM, then falls to
0.21 at 530 RPM. The initial increase is due to low frictional losses at moderate speeds. Beyond
470 RPM, rising internal resistance and heat reduce efficiency. Optimal efficiency occurs at 470
RPM, suggesting that proper lubrication and cooling can help maintain performance at higher
speeds.

Graph 3: Input Power vs RPM

Input power also declines with speed, from 1890 W at 420 RPM to 1638 W at 530 RPM. This
may reflect reduced engine load, improved combustion, or lower fuel consumption. However, if
output power also drops, it could negatively affect overall performance. Balancing input power
with output and efficiency is key for optimization.

Graph 4: Indicated Power vs RPM

Indicated power decreases with increasing RPM, from 406.36 W at 420 RPM to 165.16 W at 530
RPM. This is likely caused by greater friction, heat losses, and less effective combustion at
higher speeds. Maximum indicated power is achieved at lower RPMs, suggesting better
performance in that range.
Conclusion
The Tangy air compressor performs best at 420 – 470 RPM, with peak efficiency and power
output. Higher RPMs lead to increased friction, heat loss, and reduced efficiency. While input
power drops, indicating better fuel use, mechanical performance declines. Optimizing cooling,
lubrication, and speed control can help maintain efficiency and reduce energy loss.

References
1. Cengel, Y.A., & Boles, M.A. (2015). Thermodynamics: An Engineering Approach (8th
ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
2. Khurmi, R.S., & Gupta, J.K. (2005). A Textbook of Thermal Engineering. S. Chand
Publishing.
3. Stoecker, W.F. (1989). Design of Thermal Systems. McGraw-Hill.
4. Eastop, T.D., & McConkey, A. (1993). Applied Thermodynamics for Engineering
Technologists. Longman.

Safety Precuations

 Do not touch hot compressor parts or discharge lines immediately after operation to prevent
burns.
 Ensure all pressure release valves are functioning properly to avoid overpressure accidents.