Research
Leak rates in air systems
Where nobody looks, leaks waste 20 to 30 percent of the air. Repairs keep them under 10 percent.
Official or measured
US Department of Energy guidance on compressed air systems
Energy cost of pressure
Each 2 psi more costs about 1 percent more energy, and pushes more air out of every leak.
Official or measured
US Department of Energy guidance on compressed air systems
Ways to find leaks
An ultrasonic detector hears a leak over floor noise. Most leaks are at hoses and fittings.
Official or measured
US Department of Energy guidance on compressed air systems
Leak test with nothing running
With every air user off, a compressor pumps only to feed leaks, so its pumping time shows them.
Official or measured
US Department of Energy guidance on compressed air systems
Power of an idling compressor
An idling screw compressor still uses 15 to 35 percent of its full power while making no air.
Official or measured
US Department of Energy guidance on compressed air systems