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Droop
Droop is the pressure drop in an air system that occurs as the flow increases. When the air system demands more compressed air, the pressure regulator has to open more to increase the flow. This opening causes a slight decrease in the sensing pressure within the regulator, leading to a corresponding reduction in the delivered pressure.
Air pressure droop is an inherent characteristic of how pressure regulators operate under dynamic flow conditions. This means that the regulator’s set point is typically higher than the actual pressure it maintains when air is flowing through the machine actively.
While pressure regulator droop is not necessarily a fault in the system, excessive pressure drops cause lower delivered pressure. This leads to issues like inconsistent performance of pneumatic tools, machinery and automated processes. Local droop can also strain the system and increase energy consumption, requiring operators to over-pressurize the entire system to compensate.
Consistent inlet pressure from a well-maintained Quincy compressor contributes to better regulator performance. A predictable reference point enables the regulator to focus solely on managing downstream demand without stabilizing fluctuating inlet pressure. A stable supply also reduces wear and tear caused by too many pressure drops in the air system, prolonging the life and maintaining the accuracy of the pressure regulator.
Quincy Compressor is your trusted air compressor expert. We have been designing and manufacturing these specialized machines since 1920 and are dedicated to providing reliable, durable solutions for industrial and commercial applications across a wide range of industries. Educating our clients to help them maximize the use of their equipment and protect their investment is crucial for us.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about droop in a pressure regulator:
FAQs
Droop is a normal process within an industrial air compressor. Whenever the flow demand increases, the regulator’s valve must open further to meet it. This will unavoidably reduce the force on the sensing element and cause the downstream pressure to fall.
Excessive droop is an indication of a problem or an opportunity for optimizing your system. Better regulator performance can be achieved by managing factors like orifice design, spring constant and inlet pressure stability.
To identify excessive droop in an air compressor system, you should observe the performance of your pneumatic equipment and monitor pressure readings. Some key indicators to look for include:
- Inconsistent tool operation
- Slower machine cycles
- Fluctuating pressure gauges at the point of use
- A compressor system that runs more frequently than expected
Both of these phenomena contribute to lower-than-desired pressure at the point of use, but they occur at different phases of the air compression process. Droop is a direct cause of the regulator’s dynamic response, while a general pressure drop happens throughout the piping network due to friction, bends and system components.
Some best practices to minimize the effects of droop include:
- Opting for advanced regulator technologies: Pilot-operated regulators and those with internal feedback overcome the inherent limitations of simple, direct-acting regulators. Quincy Compressor collaborates with you to integrate the most suitable pressure control technology for your specific needs.
- Performing proactive maintenance for consistent performance: Inspecting and replacing regulator components, as well as performing maintenance throughout the system, keeps the unit in optimal condition. Quincy Compressor’s maintenance plans and genuine parts ensure peak system performance and longevity for compressors and other equipment.
