Design and Fabrication of Pedal Operated Air Compressor

Abstract

The first idea for powering the pump would be a stationary bicycle. Pedal power is simple, efficient, and practical. Its most familiar use is the bicycle for personal or cargo transportation. But pedals can also power small stationary machines. Since the system is to remain human powered and large amounts of power are required, having the operator use their stronger leg muscles was intuitive. A stationary pedal driven device seemed to agree with most of the design considerations related to the power source.                                                                                                                 

The compressors used for compressing air are called air compressors. Compressors are in variably used for all applications requiring high pressure air. Some of popular applications of compressor are, for driving pneumatic tools and air operated equipments, spray painting, compressed air engine, supercharging surface cleaning, refrigeration and air conditioning, chemical industry etc. compressors are supplied with low pressure air (or any fluid) at inlet which comes out as high pressure air (or any fluid) at outlet. Work required for increasing pressure of air is available from the prime mover driving the compressor. Generally, electric motor, internal combustion engine or steam engine, turbine etc. are used as prime movers. Compressors are similar to fans and blowers but differ in terms of pressure ratios. Fanis said to have pressure ratio up to 1.1 and blowers have pressure ratio between1.1 to 4 while compressors have pressure ratios more than 4.

Index Terms-  Compressors, Pedaling Bicycle, Chain drive mechanism, Centrifugal compressor, barrel pump, Storage tank, Air receivers, Valves, Gauges, Air compressor, Spray gun.