Compressed CO2 vs compressed air - Atlas Copco (2024)

FAQs

Compressed CO2 vs compressed air - Atlas Copco? ›

Technically, we consider CO2 easier to compress compared to air, which means it produces less heat and, in this way, asks less of the equipment used for compression. However, this compression process also poses challenges. One of them is the moisture that is being created.

This can be achieved by using an air compressor, but it may not be the most efficient method. One of the main challenges with compressing CO2 is that it is a highly dense gas, meaning it takes up less space than other gases at the same pressure and temperature.

Physical properties

At standard temperature and pressure, the density of carbon dioxide is around 1.98 kg/m³, about 1.53 times that of air. Carbon dioxide has no liquid state at pressures below 0.51795(10) MPa (5.11177(99) atm).

Generally, compressed air is utilized to power pneumatic tools, operate a brake, and convey materials. Conversely, CO2 is compressed to be transported or stored. Once compressed, it's used to create inert atmospheres in particular processes and to carbonate beverages.

Because CO2 is a heavier molecule, it can generate higher levels of vibrations and, if it is compressed too much (i.e. at high pressure), it can liquefy, which could result in damage to the compressor. Carbon dioxide has a density of 1,5 at 0 ° C, compared to air.

Carbon dioxide, however, is a harmful greenhouse gas, and its release into the atmosphere should be avoided if possible. Furthermore, while the air that is being compressed is safe to breathe, an accumulation of carbon dioxide in an enclosed space is a health hazard for anybody in the vicinity.

If you are someone who needs a CO2 tank, you know how uncomfortable it is to take it out to complete it. Although this is often overlooked, one of the most helpful things an air compressor can do for you is fill your CO2 tanks.

Therefore, carbon dioxide is 1.5 times heavier than air.

At standard temperature and pressure, the density of carbon dioxide is around 1.98 kg/m³, about 1.5 times that of air.

There's a myth that carbon monoxide alarms should be installed lower on the wall because carbon monoxide is heavier than air. In fact, carbon monoxide is slightly lighter than air and diffuses evenly throughout the room.

Which is more compressible air or CO2? ›

Ease of compression of air compared to compression of CO2

Technically, we consider CO2 easier to compress compared to air, which means it produces less heat and, in this way, asks less of the equipment used for compression.

TSA security rules prohibit the carriage of ALL compressed gas cylinders and cartridges and only allow when empty.

Can you fill a paintball CO2 tank with an air compressor? An air compressor is totally different than a bulk CO2 tank with a valve that fills the tank with the gas. Never use a hand or tire pump because they only can fill up to 150 psi which is much lower than what a paintball tank requires.

CO2 Tank Safety Concerns

While the cylinders or tanks are designed to withstand pressure and damage, the pipes, hoses, and fittings used to distribute the gas after the vessel are not. CO2 cylinder pressure is about 860 psi at normal room temperature. Typical CO2 cylinders store about 50 lbs.

Carbon dioxide is classified as neither flammable nor toxic, although it may cause intoxication at elevated concentrations. Asphyxiation is generally considered the major hazard of CO2. However, a severe hazard associated with pressurized CO2 is the Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosion (BLEVE).

Compressed carbon dioxide energy storage can be used to store electrical energy at grid scale. The gas is well suited to this role because, unlike most gases, it liquifies under pressure at ambient temperatures, so occupies a small volume.

Compression of CO2 is expected to consume 90- 120 kWhe/tCO2 of electrical power [4], making the contribution 30 to 50% of the total.

Cheaper/olders tyle mechanical markers can normally run on either co2 or compressed air. Pistols normally run on pre-filled disposable co2 cartidges, usually 12 gram or 8 gram. Where do you play? Your choice of which gas tank you go for will also depend on what gas is available to you.

From a purely thermodynamic perspective, carbon dioxide (CO2) is relatively easy to compress. This means that the pressure ratio per compressor impeller stage is high, and compressors with low stage counts or speeds are required.

The quick answer is yes, a CO2 gun can be made to run on air. As long as the pressure of the air is not too different than the pressure at which CO2 normally operates (853 psi at 70 degrees F), then the valve will open with the same hammer weight and spring strength.