Automotive
Compressed air was introduced in automotive manufacturing to increase workers’ safety and the overall efficiency of the manufacturing plant. Today it’s an essential utility in the manufacturing process. In most plants, compressed air is used in every step of the car manufacturing process—from painting and stamping to welding and assembly.
The quality and reliability of compressed air are essential to automotive manufacturers that are well-known for their zero-defect goals. In an operating environment driven by Six Sigma, Lean, and Kaizen approaches, compressed air must be constantly available, reliable, and high-quality at all times.
However, maximizing the value of your compressed air systems can be complex and overwhelming. As your compressed air solutions partner, Ingersoll Rand can take the burden off you, collaborating to design, deliver, and install compressed air systems that are a perfect match for your operations.
Application Overview
Air Consumption
Assess the amount of compressed air your automotive assembly plant needs for its large-scale and highly automated processes. A compressed air expert can help you quantify the capacity your operation requires.
Dry Air
Moisture is the enemy of all pneumatic tools and equipment. When the compressed air is appropriately dry, it helps maintain the performance and long life of pneumatic equipment used on the assembly line.
Air Quality
Generally, the requirement for air quality in automotive plants is stringent. The painting process needs extremely high-quality air without the introduction of water, oil, or dust. Only an oil-free air compressor can do that job.
If the air quality isn’t high enough, contaminants can travel through the paint gun and onto the car part. These contaminants, when heated, will cause issues in the final finish, typically referred to as “fisheyes.” These flaws trigger defect alerts and re-works at the end of the line, which costs manufacturers precious time and money. That’s why your compressed air must meet the suitable ISO rating.
Pressure
The pressure levels needed are dependent on several variables, including whether the air is used continuously or intermittently, as well as the ratings of the pneumatic tools. The air pressure must match the specifications of the equipment to keep everything running at peak performance.
Compressor Type
Oil-flooded rotary screw air compressors are commonly used on assembly lines due to their flexibility and energy efficiency. Centrifugal compressors are also used for their ability to generate very high-quality air and their reputation for reliability and a long service life.
Resources
The Importance of a Compressed Air Solution In Your Automotive Manufacturing Plant
Compressed air plays a vital role in your automotive facility; however, maximizing the value of your compressed air systems can be complex and overwhelming. As your compressed air solutions partner, Ingersoll Rand can take the burden off you, collaborating to design, deliver, and install compressed air systems that are a perfect match for your operations.
We work with you to identify the compressed air needs for your applications. Then we design a compressed air system that delivers the right level of quality, quantity, and power for your process requirements. We can also oversee the installation and recommend service and maintenance programs that optimize the total ownership cost.
With various configuration options available, including fixed or variable speed drives, single or two-stage airends, as well as Total Air System packages, our team collaborates with you to design a complete, integrated solution that maximizes efficiency and airflow.
We can also provide a range of service options and preventative maintenance programs that optimize your total cost of ownership and extend the life of your compressed air equipment.
Reliability for Life
- Generate air in any environment. We offer solutions that operate indoors and outdoors in compact spaces and extreme temperatures.
- Enjoy increased oversight with controls you can access remotely. Regulate your air use with compressor controls that monitor critical operating parameters and adapt the system to prevent downtime.
- Designed for easy serviceability and maintenance, our compressors minimize the total cost of ownership.
- An extensive catalog of OEM Genuine consumable and replacement parts are available to you to make service and maintenance easy and cost-effective. Genuine OEM parts guarantee a perfect fit and function to the highest quality standards.