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Terms by Component

An air system is a system comprised of one or more air compressors, air lines and fittings, air tanks, pressure switches, air valves and an air driven device. These devices include air horns (truck horns, train horns, boat horns, etc), air tools (impact wrenches, air nailers, feed sprayers, etc), air pistons (air bags, air jacks, etc).

An air compressor is a mechanical device that increases the pressure of air by reducing its volume. Compressors intake air from the atmosphere and output the air into an air system. This device is essential to run any sort of air equipment, such as air bags, air tools, or air horns.

The duty cycle (work cycle) of a compressor is a measurement of the compressors work time compared to its required rest time. The percentage given represents the working portion of this cycle. This required rest time of some compressors is due to heat produced during the duty cycle. The length of time of the cycle varies by compressor.

The (maximum) working pressure of a compressor represents the most PSI a compressor can generate in a system before it starts incurring abnormal wear. Please note this is also the maximum pressure a compressor can be run at to receive any kind of warranty.

This is a measurement of the compressed air volume being produced at different air system pressures. As the overall pressure (PSI) of the system (air in the tank) increases the volume output by the compressor (CFM) decreases due to resistance. This means that a system will fill much more quickly during low pressure.

An air compressor air filter is a component used to prevent dust and debris entering the intake duct of the air compressor. This helps prevent abnormal wear due to foreign objects and increases the lifespan of the compressor.

An air tank is a reservoir in an air system that collects a volume of compressed air. Air tanks are vital for any air application that has higher air consumption than compressed air production. All HornBlasters train horns consume large volumes of air and appropriately sized tanks should always be used.

SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) specifications on air tanks rate the maximum working pressure and burst pressure the air tanks can withstand. The SAE ratings should never be exceeded.