Purpose of a receiver in compressed-air installations In a reciprocating or screw compressor plant, the air receiver primarily serves which function with respect to the discharge flow?

Introduction / Context:
Air receivers (accumulators) are pressure vessels placed downstream of compressors. They provide short-term storage and stabilize the system by reducing pressure pulsations and flow fluctuations typical of positive-displacement machines.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Receiver located immediately after compressor or aftercooler.
• System operates with demand variations and pulsating discharge (especially for reciprocating units).
• Receiver sized appropriately for pressure and capacity.

Concept / Approach:
The receiver acts as a buffer volume. By adding compliance to the discharge line, it damps pressure waves and smooths the flow delivered to downstream equipment. It also offers residence time for moisture separation and allows load/unload control strategies to function effectively.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify issue: reciprocating compressors produce pulsating discharge.Introduce buffer: receiver volume reduces pulsation amplitude.Result: damped pressure waves and smoother system pressure.

Verification / Alternative check:
Pressure traces upstream and downstream of a receiver show reduced ripple; standard design guides include receiver sizing to achieve target pressure stability.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• “No”: contradicts the primary, well-known function.
• “Only stores condensate”: receivers do collect condensate but are not limited to that role.
• Fixed efficiency gain claims are unfounded; receivers do not directly change isentropic efficiency.
• They do not replace aftercoolers, which address temperature and moisture removal.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing the roles of aftercoolers, dryers, and receivers; receivers are chiefly for buffering and stability, with ancillary moisture settling.

Final Answer:
Yes