Compressed air in the granite industry
Compressed air plays a pivotal role in a wide range of granite workshop operations, from cutting and grinding to polishing and water recovery. Join us as we explore the diverse applications of compressed air in granite shops, providing you with the assurance that your operations will always run smoothly with Chicago Pneumatic.
Uses of compressed air in granite shops
Why do granite stores need air compressors?
From cutting to sharpening and polishing, compressed air is critical for any granite workshop. Workshops rely heavily on the compressed air system for a variety of operational processes. Many everyday processes in the granite industry require the use of air compressors that can generate an intermittent or continuous source of pressurized air.
The wide variety of main activities and applications that require compressed air include:
Stone lifter: Also known as a "vacuum lifter", it is designed to lift smooth-surfaced stones, powered by compressed air, from one place to another without causing damage.
Cutting saw: Whether wet or dry, it works with compressed air. These saws are specifically designed for cutting granite, marble and even concrete.
Grinding: Grinding stone and concrete to remove imperfections after cutting is essential in the manufacture of granite. Pneumatic grinders are more cost-effective and safer than electric grinders in this wet environment.
Edging: "stone routers" are suitable for outlining curved or straight edges on the stone.
Polishing machines: Granite pieces remain porous, meaning they can absorb liquids or moisture. After the process of cutting, grinding and edging, the polisher begins to work for those heavier jobs.
Air guns: Generally used to dry water from granite slabs, during and after the filtration process. In addition, it is commonly used to cure the epoxy used for metal rods installed for safety during installation.
CNC machines: Designed for countertop manufacturing, this tool produces edge finishes on countertops. To make the surface as uniform as possible, the CNC machine uses polishing tools to smooth the surfaces of the joints. All that works thanks to compressed air.
Recovery of filtered water: Reusing water is a huge cost savings for any granite store. The filtration process requires air to operate the valves and the recirculation process.
The result:
The beautiful polished granite countertop in your kitchen or bathroom that was subjected to an extensive stone manufacturing process to achieve the finished product.
The problem of dust in the environment
Just as your team uses containment suits and respirators to protect against silica dust, air compressors should also have protection against these harmful agents. Dust and other particles in your compressed air can cause a lot of damage to your compressor, tools, and equipment.
The environmental conditions of the place where you store your air compressor are crucial for its proper operation. Here are some tips to keep in mind to protect your air compressor from dust particles in your granite tent. Remember that by following the tips below, you will increase the life of your compressed air equipment.
Perform regular maintenance: Keep your maintenance schedule up to date as described in the compressor instruction manual. Inspect and replace filters regularly.
Consider adding extra filters: The cost of adding filters to your compressed air system and replacing them regularly may seem daunting at first, but compare it to the damage dirty air can cause and you'll realize that regular maintenance isn't as bad as it sounds.
Organize a compressor room: Heavy-duty filtration panels will help reduce granite dust and moisture inside the machine.
If your compressor gets dirty enough, it could shut down, stopping all production in your workshop, which will cost you a lot of money and time.
Don't let your compressor slow down
The biggest concern of those working in the manufacturing industry is the slowness of the machines to operate, and therefore, the inability to meet demand. Nothing is worse than working with a slow machine to finish cutting or polishing a granite slab. Time is money and we know it!
Here are some reasons why your machines may be running slower than normal:
Insufficient air pressure reaching your machine, causing it to run more slowly. If this is the case in your granite shop, you may need to increase the size of your air compressor to keep your tools running, which may be consuming an excessive amount of air (and you haven't realized it yet).
Know the duty cycle of your air compressor and make sure to get the compressor up and running within this period. Overuse of the compressor can be a factor of machine malfunction.
Energy Recovery
Our team of compressed air experts is your trusted partner, offering a range of solutions designed to provide you not only clean, reliable air but also energy-saving options, such as our energy recovery option to recover more than 75% of the energy used to compressed air.
Optimizing energy efficiency through AIRchitect
Maximize the potential of AIRchitect, our advanced software solution built to enhance your energy usage. This software provides you with unprecedented insights, giving you the means to lower energy losses. AIRchitect offers you the tools to govern your energy management effectively and guide your business towards a sustainable and cost-efficient path.
Let's talk about how we can transform your business!
Always CP
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