Question: The pneumatic system in a shop uses a 0.75-in. pipe to deliver compressed air to the various work stations on the shop floor. Maximum flow at any time is estimated to be 30 cfm. Supply pressure is 100 psi. The following design data provide the pressure losses (psi) per 100 ft of pipe length. The data are for a 100-psi supply pressure.
The size of the shop is 30 × 90 ft, and the delivery pipe is along one wall and across both ends. Total length is 155 ft.
1. Assume that the compressor efficiency is 85%. What size electric motor (hp) is required to ensure that 30 cfm can be delivered at 100 psi?
2. Calculate the maximum pneumatic power loss (hp) assuming that all 30 cfm travels 155 ft before being used at a pneumatic tool.