Performance, Precision, Partnership

From application to solution: Compressed air applications on the construction site

 

Whether operating pneumatic tools or optimizing fibre optic installations, compressed air is an indispensable tool on every construction site. Mobile compressors must consistently deliver consistent performance under the toughest conditions. In this blog post, we present key applications, analyse their compressed air requirements, and explain how HPC KAESER's versatile mobile compressors support work processes efficiently, reliably, and with a long service life.

 

Typical compressed air applications in construction

Fig 1: HPC KAESER compressed air solutions in use on the construction site: 

 

Geotechnics

Construction preparation for large structures typically begins with a geotechnical investigation to assess the subsurface. This often requires geotechnical drilling to access the subsurface soils and rocks for analysis. 
 
A number of geotechnical drilling techniques require air purging, which involves the use of high-pressure compressed air down the borehole and back to the surface to transport the cuttings produced by the drill bit during drilling. 
 
In down-the-hole hammer drilling (DTH drilling), compressed air is often also required to operate the drill bit in order to supply the impact energy required to break the rock to the hammer.
 
A reliable compressed air supply is essential for geotechnical drilling to ensure that the drill bit can operate continuously to expand the borehole and create optimal drilling conditions.  

 

Learn more about HPC KAESER geotechnical solutions: 

Mobile screw compressors 

 

Demolition & Construction

Many demolition and construction projects involve the use of pneumatic tools, which require a reliable compressed air supply for effective operation
 
To ensure  optimal performance and safety, the capacity of the compressor should be matched to the requirements of the pneumatic tool.
For example, uneven pressure or a sudden drop in air supply can cause a pneumatic tool to stop working or lose its torque. 
 
In addition to robustness and the ability to withstand harsh environments and conditions, the quality of the compressed air is also an important aspect. Poor compressed air quality can lead to a number of problems such as premature wear of pneumatic tools and loss of performance. Compressed air treatment is therefore often necessary.

 

Learn more about HPC KAESER solutions for demolition & construction:

Mobile screw compressors 

Mobile piston compressors

 

Concrete & Construction Technology

Compressed air is often used in the placement and finishing phases of concrete installation and plays a crucial role in ensuring good compaction
 
Whether for shotcreting or vibrating concrete, the compressed air supply must always reliably deliver the required pressure and flow rate. At the same time, cool, condensate-free compressed air is required to achieve optimal results. Depending on the application, the use of technically oil-free compressed air may also be essential. 

 

Learn more about HPC KAESER solutions for concrete and construction technology:

Mobile screw compressors 

 

 

Surface preparation & cleaning

Removing graffiti from a wall, de-rusting a bridge, removing flooring, or even restoring surfaces in a historic building—there are many surface preparation and cleaning tasks in the construction sector that require compressed air to get the job done effectively.

While compressed air requirements may vary depending on the application, in all cases, compressed air supply is critical for operational efficiency, achieving consistent results, and ensuring equipment longevity.

 

Learn more about HPC KAESER solutions for surface preparation and cleaning:

Mobile screw compressors 

Mobile piston compressors

 

Final work

In the construction industry, there are many jobs where pneumatically operated equipment is frequently used for speed and efficiency, such as surface painting, exterior wall plastering, and the installation of blown-in insulation.

Whether it's hopper guns for plaster spraying or conventional spray guns for surface coatings, for optimal performance, maximum efficiency, and consistently high-quality results, the compressed air supply must always meet and reliably maintain the required pressure and flow rate of the pneumatic equipment.

 

Learn more about HPC KAESER solutions for finishing work:

Mobile screw compressors 

Mobile piston compressors

 

Trenchless work

Many trenchless technologies require compressed air for the repair, replacement, and installation of underground utilities. 

For maximum efficiency, reliability, and longevity of the corresponding trenchless equipment, cool, condensate-free compressed air is almost always recommended. Some of these applications also require high-quality compressed air. 

Of course, precise compliance with the application's pressure and flow requirements is also essential and impacts the efficiency and performance of a compressed air system for each specific trenchless technology application.

 

Learn more about HPC KAESER solutions for trenchless work: 

Mobile screw compressors 

i.Comp 3