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What Is an Air Starter?
An air starter is a device that uses compressed air or gas to turn over a large internal combustion engine until it begins operating under its own power. Instead of using electricity, air starters utilize high-pressure air to create rotational force. This makes them particularly suitable for environments where electrical systems might pose a risk or where space and weight constraints are critical.
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How it works:
High-pressure air (usually between 90 to 150 psi) is directed into the starter motor.
This air spins a small turbine or vane motor inside the air starter.
The motor turns a pinion gear that engages the engine’s flywheel.
Once the engine starts, the pinion gear disengages, and the airflow stops.
Why Use Air Starters?
There are several reasons industries choose air starters over electric or hydraulic alternatives:
Durability and Reliability – Air starters are known for long service life, especially in extreme or hazardous conditions.
Explosion-Proof Design – No electrical sparks mean they're ideal for volatile environments, like oil rigs or chemical plants.
High Torque Output – Capable of starting massive diesel or gas engines.
Compact and Lightweight – Compared to battery-based systems, air starters are smaller and lighter.
Repeatability – As long as compressed air is available, they can start engines repeatedly without overheating or power loss.
Applications in the Oil & Gas Industry
The oil & gas sector frequently operates in remote and hazardous environments where safety, reliability, and performance are paramount. Air starters offer a robust solution for starting engines that drive drilling equipment, pumps, and compressors.
Key Applications:
Drilling Rigs: Air starters are used to start diesel engines on offshore and onshore drilling rigs, where flammable gases make electric systems a liability.
Pumping Stations: Heavy-duty engines powering pumps benefit from air starters that can withstand demanding operating cycles.
Compressors: Since these locations often already have compressed air infrastructure, integrating air starters is straightforward and efficient.
Emergency Power Systems: Air starters can be part of fail-safe mechanisms for generators or other critical backup systems.
Benefits in oil & gas:
Spark-free operation increases safety in flammable environments.
Operates effectively in extreme temperatures and dirty conditions.
Minimal maintenance required compared to electric systems.
Applications in Aviation
In aviation, especially in turbine-powered aircraft and ground support equipment, air starters provide a compact and lightweight solution ideal for aerospace applications.
Key Applications:
Jet Engines: Many aircraft use air turbine starters (ATS) to spool up jet engines using compressed air from an auxiliary power unit (APU) or ground support.
Helicopters: Small turbine helicopters often employ air starters due to their low weight and high torque.
Ground Power Units (GPUs): Mobile support systems that assist aircraft during ground operations may include air starters to crank engines of auxiliary equipment.
Benefits in aviation:
Lightweight design helps maintain aircraft efficiency.
High reliability and low maintenance contribute to operational safety.
No risk of electrical failure due to moisture or altitude.
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