Vanair® Underdeck Rotary Screw Air Compressors are commonly used in gas utilities for a variety of purposes, including:
1. Leak Detection
Compressed air pressurizes gas lines to detect leaks. When compressed air is introduced into a gas line, any leaks will be indicated by a drop in pressure, allowing maintenance crews to locate and repair the leak quickly.
2. Pigging
Pigging is a method used in the oil and gas industry to clean pipelines using devices called pigs. Pigs are cylindrical cleaning tools (mechanical devices) that are sent through pipelines via compressed air to remove debris, corrosion, and other buildup. The method is called pigging because the cleaning devices resemble pigs. Pigs can also be used for other purposes such as gas pipeline safety inspection and integrity testing.
3. Air Excavation
Compressed air creates high-pressure streams of air to break up soil and rocks, allowing for the safe and efficient excavation of underground gas lines.
4. Maintenance and Repairs
Compressed air powers pneumatic tools for cutting, drilling, and other maintenance and repair tasks on underground gas pipelines.
5. Testing
Compressed air tests the integrity and strength of new or repaired pipelines by subjecting them to high pressure to ensure that they can withstand normal operating conditions.
6. Powering Tools and Equipment
Compressed air powers tools such as: impact wrenches, pneumatic saws, and drilling equipment, allowing maintenance crews to work more efficiently and effectively.
7. Safety
Compressed air powers tools such as: impact wrenches, pneumatic saws, and drilling equipment, allowing maintenance crews to work more efficiently and effectively.