A thorough analysis of the cost structure of compressed air systems, is quite important for the conception of such issues as the factors to consider while investing in these systems, or the factors to bear in mind while using such a system. The total cost for the first 10 years of operation of a typical air cooled compressor used in a facility implementing a double shift comprise operational expenses equal to 88% (electricity and maintenance) and the remaining investment cost of 12%.
Electrical expenditure which has a share of around 76% in the cost of a decade of operation is a more significant item than investment costs for enterprises investing in compressed air systems, and the necessity of designing systems and selecting products in the light of this fact is clear.
Information regarding the electrical power supplied to the compressed air system and the utilization of the energy within the system have been provided in Figure 2. In a compressed air system equipped with a 100 kW motor, after extracting the power expended on losses occurring within the compressor, dryer, filter, losses resulting from the conversion of compressed water to mechanical force and on air leaks, the remaining energy which is converted to useful work is only 9 kW. Based on this picture, the efficiency that can be obtained from the system in return for an energy input of 100 units is approximately 9%. In a compressed air system suffering from a 91% energy loss, it is possible for the enterprise to avert substantial losses by taking the requisite measures.