TM 5-4310-377-13
Section III. PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION
1-13. PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION.
(1)
Filtered air is drawn into the first stage (low-pressure) cylinders at atmospheric pressure as the pistons
move down.
(2)
The air is compressed when the pistons are moved upwards. When the air pressure inside the cylinders
reaches a pre-determined value, the valve spring pressure is overcome and the air is forced out the discharge
valve to the intercooler.
(3)
As the air flows through the intercooler, much of the heat of compression is dissipated.
(4)
The second stage (high-pressure) is similar except that the air enters from the intercooler and is
recompressed to a higher pressure.
(5) The air then flows to the air receiver tank.
Figure 1-2. Air Compressor, Operation.
1-6
