Compressed air – 6 applications that might surprise you

The compressed air we deal with is working hard in manufacturing, waste management, automotive, logistics, packaging, leisure centres and more. But when you really let it off the leash and get creative, here’s what an air compressor is capable of …

Here’s something a bit different, and a great example of the versatility and sheer power of compressed air. If you happen to find yourself on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok one evening, as Algar Air’s Simone Algar did recently, make sure you catch ICONSIAM, the spectacular, free 15-minute light and sound water show.

Using cutting-edge compressed air technology, the installation fires dancing jets of water up to 35 metres into the air, creating curtains of water onto which light and projections are cast. It’s fabulous, and you can watch it in action here: https://youtu.be/BdEGbD30uAQ?si=7YmXZht695FaJl97

Unexpected uses of compressed air

Simone’s snapshots got us thinking about some other applications of compressed air that you might not think about. So in no particular order here are five more …

2. Theme park rides
Whether it’s a pneumatic launch or the friction brake that brings you to an abrupt halt, there’s an air compressor behind it.

3. Snow!
If your nearest indoor ski slope makes its own snow, it probably does it with the help of an air compressor.

4. Automatic car washes
Compressed air powers the air blades that dry your car.

5. Miniature painting
Detailed airbrush work needs a steady flow of air power. So whether you’re working on a wedding cake, a train set or Warhammer figurines, a small air compressor will be your best friend.

6. Aquarium air
You won’t need it for your home fishtank, but when things scale up and you need deep water aeration, an air compressor will keep the environment healthy.

To be clear, we haven’t supplied the air compressors that power ICONSIAM. But if Sheffield City Council want to give the Peace Gardens water features a makeover, we’re game.

Need an air compressor for your business – or for anything else? Email us, or phone us on 0114 243 2347.