How Does a Centrifugal Compressor Work?

Learn how centrifugal compressors work, explore their key components and industrial applications, and discover how they deliver efficient, reliable, oil-free compressed air.

ACFM vs SCFM vs FAD: Understanding Compressor Flow Measurements

Learn how compressor flow is measured, including ACFM, SCFM, FAD, and mass flow, and why correct flow definitions are critical for accurate performance comparison.

Optimizing Manufacturing Operations: Managing Cost Fluctuations & Proven Strategies for Success

Manufacturers continue to operate in an environment where cost volatility is difficult to avoid. Raw material pricing, labor availability, transportation costs, and broader economic conditions can all shift quickly, placing pressure on margins and long-term planning.

Air Compressor Filters 101 – What You Need to Know to Protect Your System

In industrial applications, air filtration isn’t just about protecting the compressor; it’s about protecting your entire operation. A well-specified air filter safeguards equipment, preserves airflow quality, and helps maintain consistent pressure and performance. Whether you’re operating in a dusty mill environment or a cleanroom, the right filtration system can dramatically reduce downtime, energy loss, and maintenance intervals.

How Air Compressors Are Used in Snowmaking Operations

Snowmaking plays a critical role in modern ski resort operations. It allows facilities to extend the season, maintain consistent surface conditions, and reduce reliance on variability in natural snowfall.

At the center of this process is compressed air, specifically centrifugal compressors. It drives snow production and represents one of the highest operational costs for ski resorts. In many systems, compressed air accounts for up to 75% of total snowmaking energy consumption, making system efficiency a key factor in overall cost control.

Understanding Your Compressor Control System Technology

Compressor control technology has come a long way, from mechanical switches and relays to smart, touchscreen interfaces that integrate with plant-wide automation platforms. FS-Elliott’s history in this space mirrors that shift. As control needs became more complex, each generation of FS-Elliott’s systems brought new capabilities to help operators better manage performance, energy use, and maintenance.

Controlling a Multiple Compressor Installation Using Integrated Compressor Control

Integrated Compressor Control (ICC) is a coordinated sequencing feature that allows multiple compressors to maintain a constant system pressure while ensuring maximum energy efficiency and minimal blow-off. 

When using the ICC feature, compressors are connected through an integrated Peer-to-Peer (P2P) network. The P2P network, coupled with the ICC sequencing software included in each of the local control panels, allows users to select any of the networked compressors as the master controller, thus creating redundancy and reducing cost by eliminating the need for a separate master controller. 

Air Compressor Intercooler Function & Maintenance Guide

Proper intercooler maintenance is essential for reliable performance, efficient operation, and long equipment life in multi stage air compressors. Intercoolers reduce compressed air temperature between stages, help remove moisture, and improve overall system efficiency. Regular inspection and cleaning ensure peak performance and prevent costly downtime.

Rerate or Replace? How to Maximize Compressor Efficiency Without New Equipment

Rerating an existing compressor package provides a cost-efficient path to enhance plant air capacity without purchasing a new  centrifugal compressor package. This approach eliminates the complexities associated with minimum bid procurement, budget approval, and permits for acquiring a new compressor. Organizations can increase capacity and efficiency by rerating existing equipment while saving time and money. 

FS-Elliott Centrifugal Air Compressors: Proudly Engineered and Manufactured in America

For over 60 years, FS-Elliott has proudly manufactured centrifugal compressors right here in the United States. From design and engineering to machining, assembly, and performance testing, our commitment to American manufacturing is deeply rooted in who we are as a company. We believe that building our products domestically isn’t just about location; it’s about delivering unmatched quality, responsiveness, and reliability to the industries that power our nation.