Gas Compressor - Prime Movers

Prime Movers

There are many options for the "prime mover" or motor that powers the compressor:

  • Gas turbines power the axial and centrifugal flow compressors that are part of jet engines.
  • Steam turbines or water turbines are possible for large compressors.
  • Electric motors are cheap and quiet for static compressors. Small motors suitable for domestic electrical supplies use single phase alternating current. Larger motors can only be used where an industrial electrical three phase alternating current supply is available.
  • Diesel engines or petrol engines are suitable for portable compressors and support compressors. Common in automobiles and other types of vehicles (including piston-powered airplanes, boats, trucks, etc.), diesel or gasoline engines can power compressors using their own crankshaft power (this setup known as a supercharger), or, using their waste exhaust gas to spin a turbine connected to the compressor (this setup known as a turbocharger).

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