Double-Acting Reciprocating Compressor

The figure provided here illustrates a double-acting air compressor.

In this type of compressor, compression of air is carried out on both sides of the piston.

Click on the Start button to start the compressor.

Notice that in this case we are using both sides of the compressor. While one side is accepting air in, the other side is compressing and discharging air.

Notice that when the suction valve “A” is open on the left side of the piston, the discharge valve “D” is open on the other side. Similarly, when discharge valve “B” is open on the left side, the suction valve “C” is open on the right side.

Since work is done on both sides of the piston, this type of design is referred to as double-acting air compressor.