How Does An Air Starter Work? We Explain Here, Check It Out!

An air starter is a pneumatic device used to start engines, particularly in heavy-duty industrial applications. It uses compressed air to create rotational motion, which is then transmitted to the engine's crankshaft to initiate the starting process. Here's a step-by-step explanation of how an Ingersoll Rand air starter typically works:

Compressed Air Supply: The air starter requires a reliable source of compressed air. A compressed air system, such as an air compressor or a reserve tank supplies the necessary air pressure for the starter to operate.

Control Valve: The air starter is equipped with a control valve that regulates the flow of compressed air into the starter. This valve is typically operated manually or automatically, depending on the application.

Air Motor: The heart of the air starter is an air motor or turbine. It consists of a series of rotating blades or vanes arranged in a circular chamber. The compressed air enters the motor through the control valve.

Air Compression and Expansion: As the compressed air enters the air motor, it causes the blades or vanes to rotate rapidly. This rotation creates a high-speed airflow within the motor. The air is compressed and then expands, generating kinetic energy.

Torque Generation: The rotating motion of the air motor is transferred to a drive mechanism or pinion gear. This gear meshes with a ring gear connected to the engine's crankshaft. As the pinion gear rotates, it engages the ring gear, transmitting rotational torque to the engine.

Engine Starting: The rotational torque produced by the air starter is transmitted to the engine's crankshaft. The engine's pistons start moving, igniting the fuel-air mixture and initiating the combustion process. Once the engine starts running, it takes over the power generation, and the air starter is disengaged.