Describe the main operating features of any one of the following: - Air compressor - Strip heater - Three-jaw chuck. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question 1 (i) - 2021

An air compressor consists of three main components: an electric motor, a compressor unit, and a storage tank. The electric motor drives the compressor unit, which sucks in air through an intake valve into a cylinder. The air is then compressed by a piston into the storage tank.

As the compressor runs, the storage tank builds up pressure. When this pressure reaches a preset level, the electric motor stops, preventing overfilling. The tank serves as a reservoir for compressed air. When pressure in the storage tank decreases, the electric motor is activated again to replenish the air supply.