Air compressor

Abstract

The present invention provides an air compressor capable of reducing the drainage area for discharging condensate to the outside of the air compressor. The air compressor (1) includes: a compressor (20) for compressing incoming air, and a container (3) for storing compressed air discharged from the compressor (20). The air compressor (1) is provided with: a condensate drain pipe (42) for discharging air and condensate from the container (3) to the outside of the container (3), and a drain valve (41) provided in the middle of the condensate drain pipe (42) for opening and closing the condensate drain pipe (42). The air compressor (1) is provided with: a discharge pipe end portion (42b), which is the end of the condensate drain pipe (42) and has an upward-facing discharge port (42c); and a cylindrical cover (43) having a top (43a) that covers the discharge pipe end portion (42b) from above.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an air compressor that compresses incoming air to generate compressed air. Background Technology

[0002] An air compressor generates compressed air, for example, through a piston mechanism. Outside air is introduced into a cylinder, and the piston compresses it, thereby generating compressed air. The generated compressed air is then sent to a container for storage. The compressed air stored in the container is supplied to tools such as pneumatically driven nail machines or pneumatic nailers. When compressed air is supplied to the outside of the container, the compressed air remaining inside expands and cools. Consequently, the water vapor contained in the compressed air remaining in the container condenses and accumulates as condensate inside the container. The condensate accumulating in the container can sometimes cause rust or reduce the amount of compressed air stored. Therefore, as described in Patent Document 1, the air compressor is generally configured to include a condensate discharge section for discharging the condensate to the outside of the container.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a condensate drain section comprising: a condensate drain pipe communicating with the interior of a container, and a drain valve for opening and closing the condensate drain pipe. By opening the drain valve, compressed air and condensate inside the container are discharged from the outlet at the end of the condensate drain pipe. The outlet of the condensate drain pipe is directed into a silencing chamber located below the compressor body. A rectangular box-shaped silencing chamber is formed by the cooperation of a recess formed in a lower guard plate covering the lower part of the compressor body and a lower cover mounted on the lower part of the lower guard plate. The silencing chamber is configured to be approximately horizontally elongated along the long side of the container. A silencing component is filled within the silencing chamber to suppress noise generated when compressed air is discharged at high speed from the outlet. The outlet of the condensate drain pipe is open in a generally horizontal direction. The upper surface of the lower cover slopes downward toward the inlet of the silencing chamber.

[0004] According to the above configuration, the air compressor described in Patent Document 1 can suppress the noise of compressed air discharged from the outlet of the condensate drain pipe, and can also suppress the splashing of condensate discharged from the outlet. Furthermore, the condensate discharged into the silencing chamber is guided to the inlet of the silencing chamber by the inclination of the upper surface of the lower cover, thereby discharging the condensate to the outside from position 1.

[0005] However, compressed air and condensate are discharged from the outlet at a very rapid, roughly horizontal speed. Consequently, the force of the compressed air and condensate discharged from the outlet cannot always be adequately suppressed within the silencing chamber, causing condensate to leak from the gap between the lower guard plate and the lower cover. The silencing chamber is configured to be longer along its long side. This increases the area of ​​the connection between the lower guard plate and the lower cover, thus increasing the drainage area for condensate.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-157791 Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, there is a need for an air compressor that can reduce the drainage area that discharges condensate to the outside of the air compressor.

[0010] A feature of the present invention is that the air compressor comprises: a compressor for supplying air, and a container for storing compressed air discharged from the compressor. The air compressor is provided with: a condensate drain pipe for discharging air and condensate from the container to the outside of the container, and a drain valve located midway along the condensate drain pipe for opening and closing the condensate drain pipe. The air compressor is provided with: a discharge pipe end portion, which is the end of the condensate drain pipe and has an upward-facing discharge port; and a cylindrical cover that covers the top of the discharge pipe end portion from above.

[0011] Therefore, compressed air and condensate are discharged from the upward-facing outlet into the upward-facing cylindrical shroud. The top of the cylindrical shroud prevents condensate from being discharged to a position higher than the top. As the condensate is discharged upwards from the drain outlet, splashing in the forward, backward, left, and right directions is suppressed. Covering the front, back, left, and right sides of the end of the discharge pipe with the cylindrical shroud further suppresses splashing in these directions. Thus, splashing of condensate discharged into the cylindrical shroud in these directions is suppressed, and the condensate is discharged downwards from the bottom of the shroud. Because the end of the discharge pipe is arranged longitudinally with a longer vertical section, the opening area of ​​the lower part of the cylindrical shroud covering the end of the discharge pipe can be reduced. This reduces the drainage area of ​​the condensate, thereby suppressing splashing. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the air compressor involved in this embodiment, viewed from the front.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a 3D view of the air compressor with the mechanism cover removed, viewed from the rear.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the air compressor viewed from above.

[0015] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of line IV-IV.

[0016] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of the middle V section.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a bottom view of an air compressor.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional view of the lower protective panel from below.

[0019] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional view of the lower cover from above.

[0020] Symbol Explanation

[0021] 1…Air compressor; 2…Base; 3…Container; 3a…First container; 3b…Second container; 3c…Container connecting pipe; 3d…Pressure sensor; 4…Mechanism cover; 4a…Ventilation port; 4b…Operating panel; 5…Support feet; 5a…Container guard plate; 6…Lower guard plate; 7…Main body support component; 8…Handle; 10…Compressor body; 10a…Main body foot; 10b…Vibration absorption component; 11…Mechanism housing; 11a…Filter; 12…Electric motor ; 12a… Output shaft; 12b… Stator; 12c… Rotor; 13, 14… Bearings; 15, 16… Fan; 17… First crankshaft; 17a… First crank plate; 18… Second crankshaft; 18a… Second crank plate; 20… Compressor; 21… First compressor; 22… First cylinder; 22a… First piston chamber; 22b… First intermediate chamber; 22c… First check valve; 23… First piston; 24… Vent pipe; 25… Second compressor; 26… 2nd cylinder; 26a…2nd piston chamber; 26b…2nd intermediate chamber; 26c…2nd check valve; 27…2nd piston; 28…outlet; 30…vent pipe; 31…inlet; 32…controller; 33…connector; 34…pressure reducing valve adjustment knob; 34a…pressure sensor; 40…condensate drain; 41…drain cock; 42…condensate drain pipe; 42a…horizontal extension; 42b…end of drain pipe; 42c…outlet; 43…cylindrical cover; 43 a…top; 43b…peripheral part; 43c…lower part; 43d…threaded hole; 44…silencer chamber; 45…lower cover; 45a…upper surface; 45b…upper surface of outer periphery; 45c…drainage ditch; 45d…piping recess; 45e…through hole; 45f…outer periphery; 46…protrusion; 46a…arc-shaped surface; 46b…end; 46c…standing surface; 46d…outer periphery protrusion; 47…silencer component; 48…fixing screw; 49…support part; F…setting surface. Detailed Implementation

[0022] Another feature of the invention is that the air compressor has a lower cover that covers the lower opening of the cylindrical cover. Therefore, condensate discharged from the lower part of the cylindrical cover falls onto the upper surface of the lower cover and is then discharged downwards from the outer periphery of the lower cover. This limits the drainage area of ​​the condensate to a narrow region at the outer periphery of the lower cover.

[0023] Another feature of the present invention is that the air compressor includes a silencing member housed within a cylindrical cover in a manner that covers the periphery of the discharge port at the end of the discharge pipe. Therefore, the force of the compressed air and condensate discharged from the discharge port is reduced by the silencing member. This suppresses noise generated by the high-speed discharge of compressed air and splashing of condensate. Furthermore, by providing a lower cover, the silencing member can be retained within the cylindrical cover and prevented from flowing outwards.

[0024] Another feature of the present invention is that the silencing component is made of metal wool. Therefore, the silencing component is made of a high-strength metal. This prevents deformation of the silencing component when compressed air and condensate are discharged from the outlet. Consequently, it prevents the performance of the silencing component, which weakens the pressure of compressed air and condensate, from deteriorating from the time of manufacture. Furthermore, since the silencing component is fibrous, condensate that has entered the silencing component is easily discharged to the outside of the silencing component. This allows condensate to be discharged in a manner that prevents it from remaining inside the cylindrical cover.

[0025] Another feature of the present invention is that the lower cover has a support portion that supports the silencing component from below. Therefore, the support portion can hold the silencing component inside the cylindrical cover. Consequently, when condensate is discharged from inside the cylindrical cover, the outflow of the silencing component can be suppressed.

[0026] Another feature of the present invention is that the lower cover has: a plurality of protrusions provided on the support portion and protruding upward, and drainage channels between the plurality of protrusions that guide condensate water in the outward peripheral direction. Therefore, the plurality of protrusions allow the silencing component to be held in the upper position without descending. This ensures a gap between the upper surface of the lower cover and the silencing component. Accordingly, condensate water entering the silencing component can easily flow downward through the gap and be discharged. Furthermore, by forming the drainage channel, condensate water can be discharged towards the outer periphery of the lower cover. In this way, condensate water can be discharged in a manner that prevents the drainage area from expanding and prevents it from remaining inside the cylindrical cover.

[0027] Another feature of the invention is that the lower cover is connected to the cylindrical cover. Therefore, by connecting the lower cover to the cylindrical cover, a drainage channel can be formed between the outer periphery of the lower cover and the lower part of the cylindrical cover. This allows condensate to be discharged from the narrow drainage area corresponding to the outer periphery of the lower cover without being enlarged.

[0028] Another feature of the present invention is that the upper surface of the outer periphery of the lower cover is a cone shape that slopes downward toward the outer periphery. Therefore, condensate can be effectively discharged along the cone-shaped upper surface of the lower cover toward the outer periphery. This prevents condensate from accumulating on the upper surface of the lower cover.

[0029] Another feature of the present invention is that the lower part of the cylindrical cover is a cone shape that extends downward and outward in a manner mimicking the cone-shaped upper surface of the lower cover, and is opposite to the cone-shaped upper surface of the lower cover. Therefore, a drainage channel can be formed between the lower part of the cylindrical cover and the cone-shaped upper surface of the lower cover. This allows condensate to be effectively discharged towards the outer periphery of the lower cover. Furthermore, since the lower part of the cylindrical cover can be positioned close to the upper surface of the lower cover, the silencing component can be prevented from flowing out of the cylindrical cover.

[0030] Another feature of the present invention is that the air compressor has multiple containers. A discharge pipe end portion of a condensate drain pipe and a cylindrical cover are disposed between the multiple containers. Therefore, the space between the multiple containers can be utilized to arrange the discharge pipe end portion of the condensate drain pipe and the cylindrical cover. This allows for a compact air compressor.

[0031] Next, based on Figures 1-8 To illustrate one embodiment of the present invention, see below. Figure 1 As shown, the air compressor 1 has two generally cylindrical containers 3 extending in the front-to-back direction. The two containers 3 are arranged side-by-side laterally and are connected at the front and back ends by a base 2. A compressor body 10 is provided above the two containers 3. A generally box-shaped mechanism cover 4 with an opening at the bottom encloses the compressor body 10. Support feet 5 are provided at the lower parts of the front and back ends of the two containers 3. A total of four support feet 5 support the two containers 3 and the compressor body 10, thereby enabling the air compressor 1 to be installed on a mounting surface F (see reference) such as the ground or floor surface. Figure 4 In the following description, the vertical direction is defined with the side with the F side as the bottom, the front-back direction is defined with the side with the drain valve 41 described later as the front, and the left-right direction is defined with reference to the view of the air compressor 1 from the front.

[0032] like Figure 1 As shown, multiple ventilation holes 4a arranged in a grid pattern are formed on the front, rear, left, and right sides of the mechanism cover 4. Outside air can be supplied to the compressor body 10 through the ventilation holes 4a. An operation panel 4b for operating the air compressor 1 is provided on the upper part of the mechanism cover 4. The operation panel 4b is electrically connected to the electrical components of the compressor body 10. The air compressor 1 can be started or stopped, for example, by pressing a button provided on the operation panel 4b. Two ring-shaped handles 8 are provided on the front and rear of the mechanism cover 4, pointing upwards. The two handles 8 are respectively connected to the mechanism cover 4 and the base 2. The air compressor 1 can be carried and transported by holding the two handles 8.

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, container guards 5a are provided at the front and rear ends of the two containers 3, and above the support feet 5. The container guards 5a have an outer peripheral surface that curves in an arc shape when viewed from above and below. The container guards 5a protect these components by covering the front and rear corners of the containers 3 and the support feet 5 from the outside.

[0034] like Figure 2 , 3As shown, the compressor body 10 includes a compressor 20 that generates compressed air and an electric motor 12 that serves as the drive source for the compressor 20. The compressor 20 is housed in a housing 11. The electric motor 12 is a so-called external rotor type brushless motor. The electric motor 12 has an output shaft 12a that extends approximately horizontally in the left-right direction. The output shaft 12a passes through the housing 11 and is supported by bearings 13 and 14 within the housing 11 to enable rotation. A cylindrical rotor 12c integrally connected to the output shaft 12a is provided on the right side of the housing 11. A plurality of stators 12b with wound coils are arranged on the radially inner circumferential side of the rotor 12c. The plurality of stators 12b are arranged at approximately equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the output shaft 12a. When the electric motor 12 is powered, the output shaft 12a and the rotor 12c rotate around the output shaft 12a.

[0035] like Figure 2 , 3 As shown, a fan 15 is mounted on the right end of the output shaft 12a. The fan 15 rotates integrally with the output shaft 12a, thereby generating motor cooling air radially outward from the left side of the electric motor 12 towards the fan 15. A fan 16 is mounted on the left end of the output shaft 12a. Multiple holes are formed on the right side of the fan 16, and on the left side of the housing 11, and a filter 11a covers these holes. The fan 16 rotates integrally with the output shaft 12a, thereby causing air to flow from the left side of the fan 16 to the right side of the filter 11a. Air is then introduced into the housing 11 through the filter 11a.

[0036] like Figure 3 As shown, compressor 20 is a two-stage compression mechanism including a first compressor 21 and a second compressor 25. The first compressor 21 has a first cylinder 22 located further forward than the output shaft 12a and extending along the front-rear direction, and a first piston 23 reciprocating within the first cylinder 22. The second compressor 25 has a second cylinder 26 located further rearward than the output shaft 12a and extending along the front-rear direction, and a second piston 27 reciprocating within the second cylinder 26.

[0037] like Figure 3As shown, the first crank plate 17a and the second crank plate 18a are connected to the output shaft 12a with their centers offset from the center of the output shaft 12a. The first crankshaft 17 extends radially outward from the first crank plate 17a in a straight line. The first piston 23 is connected to the end of the first crankshaft 17. The rotational motion of the first crank plate 17a around the output shaft 12a is converted into the reciprocating motion of the first piston 23 via the first crankshaft 17. The first piston 23 reciprocates in the forward-backward direction extending from the first cylinder 22. The second crankshaft 18 extends radially outward from the second crank plate 18a in a straight line. The second piston 27 is connected to the end of the second crankshaft 18. The rotational motion of the second crank plate 18a around the output shaft 12a is converted into the reciprocating motion of the second piston 27 via the second crankshaft 18. The second piston 27 reciprocates in the front-rear direction extending from the second cylinder 26.

[0038] like Figure 3 As shown, the first cylinder 22 and the first piston 23 cooperate to form a first piston chamber 22a. The first piston chamber 22a has a communication passage between air and the central portion of the mechanism housing 11, where a filter 11a is provided. Thus, atmospheric pressure air is supplied to the first piston chamber 22a via the filter 11a. A first intermediate chamber 22b, formed airtight, is provided in front of the first piston chamber 22a. A first one-way valve 22c, capable of preventing air from flowing back from the first intermediate chamber 22b to the first piston chamber 22a, is provided between the first piston chamber 22a and the first intermediate chamber 22b. In the first compressor 21, the air introduced at atmospheric pressure is pressurized to a first pressure, for example, 0.7 to 1 MPa.

[0039] like Figure 3 As shown, the second cylinder 26 and the second piston 27 cooperate to form a second piston chamber 26a. The second piston chamber 26a is airtight relative to the central portion of the mechanism housing 11, where the filter 11a is provided, and is connected to the vent pipe 24 via the first intermediate chamber 22b. Thus, compressed air generated by the first compressor 21 is supplied to the second piston chamber 26a. An airtight second intermediate chamber 26b is provided behind the second piston chamber 26a. A second one-way valve 26c is provided between the second piston chamber 26a and the second intermediate chamber 26b to prevent air from flowing back from the second intermediate chamber 26b to the second piston chamber 26a. In the second compressor 25, the air compressed by the first compressor 21 is pressurized to a second pressure, for example, 3 to 4.5 MPa, which is higher than the first pressure.

[0040] like Figure 2 , 3As shown, the air compressor 1 includes a first container 3a and a second container 3b. A second intermediate chamber 26b is connected to an outlet 28 for discharging compressed air. The first container 3a is connected to an inlet 31 for drawing in compressed air. An outlet 28 and an inlet 31 are connected via a vent pipe 30, thereby enabling the delivery of compressed air from the second compressor 25 to the first container 3a. The first container 3a and the second container 3b are connected via a container connecting pipe 3c. The pressure of the compressed air delivered from the first container 3a to the second container 3b is monitored by a pressure sensor 3d installed in the container connecting pipe 3c.

[0041] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown, a plurality of connectors 33 for supplying compressed air to the tool are provided at the front of the compressor body 10. The connectors 33 are connected to the container 3 in a manner that allows compressed air stored in the container 3 to be discharged. The connectors 33 protrude outwards from the outer side of the mechanism cover 4 so as to allow connection to an air hose. A pressure reducing valve adjustment knob 34, connected to the connectors 33, is provided at the upper front side of the compressor body 10. The pressure reducing valve adjustment knob 34 protrudes from the upper surface of the mechanism cover 4 so as to be operable from the outside of the mechanism cover 4. By rotating the pressure reducing valve adjustment knob 34, the compressed air discharged from the connectors 33 can be adjusted to the operating pressure of the tool. The pressure of the compressed air adjusted by the pressure reducing valve adjustment knob 34 is monitored by a pressure sensor 34a.

[0042] like Figure 2 , 4 As shown, a main support member 7 connecting the two containers 3 in a left-right direction is provided on the upper surface of the two containers 3. Two main support members 7 are provided at the front and back. Rubber vibration-absorbing members 10b are installed on the upper surface of the main support members 7. A total of four vibration-absorbing members 10b are provided on the left and right sides of the two main support members 7. Four main body feet 10a, integrally formed with the housing 11, are connected to the upper surfaces of the four vibration-absorbing members 10b. Accordingly, the compressor body 10 is supported above the two containers. As a result, the vibration of the compressor body 10 generated by the operation of the compressor 20 is absorbed by the vibration-absorbing members 10b, thereby suppressing the transmission to the containers 3.

[0043] like Figure 4 As shown, a controller 32 is housed within a shallow rectangular box-shaped casing below the compressor body 10. The controller 32 is supported at the bottom of the front-to-back main body support member 7 with its long side facing forward and its thickness facing left and right. The controller 32 operates based on control signals received from the operation panel 4b and pressure sensor 3d (see reference). Figure 3The controller 32 monitors signals and controls the power supply or the drive of the electric motor 12. A lower cover plate 6 is provided below the controller 32 and between the two containers 3 in the left and right directions, covering the lower part of the controller 32.

[0044] like Figure 4 , 7 As shown, a cylindrical cover 43 is integrally formed on the front of the rectangular flat lower guard plate 6. The cylindrical cover 43 is positioned in the center of the lower guard plate 6 in the left-right direction. Thus, the cylindrical cover 43 is positioned between the two containers 3 in the left-right direction. The cylindrical cover 43 is a bottomed cylindrical shape extending upward from the lower guard plate 6. The cylindrical cover 43 has: an upper circular plate-shaped top 43a, vertically erected cylindrical peripheral portions 43b, and a lower portion 43c formed by a conical inclined surface. The upper end of the peripheral portion 43b is connected to the outer periphery of the top 43a. The lower end of the peripheral portion 43b is connected to the upper end of the lower portion 43c. The lower portion 43c slopes downward radially outward from the lower end of the peripheral portion 43b. A plurality of threaded holes 43d are formed in the lower portion 43c, extending in the vertical direction and covered by a boss portion. The outer periphery of the lower portion 43c is connected to the lower guard plate 6. The lower guard plate 6 is threaded to the base 2 at the front and rear in a manner that spans the two containers 3 in the left-right direction.

[0045] like Figure 2 , 4 As shown, the air compressor 1 has a condensate discharge section 40 for discharging compressed air and condensate remaining inside the two containers 3. The condensate discharge section 40 has a condensate discharge pipe 42 extending from the containers 3 and discharging compressed air and condensate outwards, and a drain valve 41 located midway along the path of the condensate discharge pipe 42 for opening and closing. The condensate discharge pipe 42 extending from the containers 3 first extends downwards along the front base 2. The drain valve 41 is provided on the front surface of the front base 2. When the drain valve 41 is closed, the compressed air and condensate inside the containers 3 are not discharged from the condensate discharge pipe 42. When the drain valve 41 is opened, the compressed air and condensate inside the containers 3 are discharged from the outlet 42c of the condensate discharge pipe 42, depending on the opening amount.

[0046] like Figure 4 , 5 As shown, the condensate drain pipe 42 has a horizontal extension 42a extending rearward from the lower end of the base 2 below the lower protective plate 6. The condensate drain pipe 42 also has a drain pipe end portion 42b extending upward from below the cylindrical cover 43. The drain pipe end portion 42b is positioned approximately vertically at the center of the cylindrical cover 43. An upward-opening drain outlet 42c is provided at the upper end of the drain pipe end portion 42b.

[0047] like Figure 4 As shown, the condensate drain section 40 includes: a silencer chamber 44 into which the end portion 42b of the drain pipe is inserted; a cylindrical cover 43; and a lower portion 43c connected to the cylindrical cover 43 (see reference). Figure 5 The lower cover 45 cooperates with the anechoic chamber 44 to form a cylindrical anechoic chamber 44. An anechoic component 47 is housed within the anechoic chamber 44. The anechoic component 47 is made of metal and is constructed of metal wool, which is formed by intertwining fine fibrous components. The anechoic component 47 is, for example, steel wool made of iron or stainless steel wool made of stainless steel. The anechoic component 47 has numerous fine gaps capable of dispersing the airflow passing through it. Furthermore, the anechoic component 47 has high water permeability (water permeability, drainage) and extremely low water absorption (water retention). The anechoic component 47 is filled within the anechoic chamber 44 in such a way that it at least covers the area around the outlet 42c.

[0048] like Figure 5 , 8 As shown, the lower cover 45 is formed in a generally frustum-shaped form, covering the lower opening of the cylindrical cover 43. The lower cover 45 has a generally horizontal circular upper surface 45a and an outer peripheral upper surface 45b disposed radially outward from the outer periphery of the upper surface 45a. The outer peripheral upper surface 45b is a cone-shaped structure that slopes downward toward the radially outward outer peripheral edge 45f. The slope angle of the outer peripheral upper surface 45b is approximately the same as the slope angle of the lower portion 43c of the cylindrical cover 43. Thus, when the lower cover 45 is installed on the cylindrical cover 43, the outer peripheral upper surface 45b and the lower portion 43c are matched and opposed to each other.

[0049] like Figure 5 , 8 As shown, a piping recess 45d is recessed on the upper front surface of the lower cover 45. The piping recess 45d extends from the front end of the lower cover 45 toward approximately the center of the lower cover 45. The piping recess 45d has an arc-shaped wall surface when viewed from the left and right. The piping recess 45d houses a curved portion of a condensate drain pipe 42 that connects the horizontal extension 42a and the drain pipe end portion 42b in an L-shape. Accordingly, the drain pipe end portion 42b of the condensate drain pipe 42, which extends from the base 2 at the front and toward the lower cover 45 at the rear, can enter the upper anechoic chamber 44. A support portion 49 is provided on the upper part of the lower cover 45 to support the anechoic member 47 from below.

[0050] like Figure 8As shown, the support portion 49 has a plurality of protrusions 46 projecting upwards from the upper surface 45a and the upper surface 45b of the outer periphery. The plurality of protrusions 46 are upright, plate-like, and extend radially in the lower cover 45. The plurality of protrusions 46 are formed at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction of the lower cover 45. A plurality of drainage channels 45c extending radially are formed between the plurality of protrusions 46. Using the plurality of drainage channels 45c, condensate falling onto the upper surface 45a and the upper surface 45b of the outer periphery can be guided towards the outer periphery 45f of the lower cover 45.

[0051] like Figure 5 , 8 As shown, the protrusion 46 has its upper end 46b located above the outer periphery of the upper surface 45a. The protrusion 46 has an arcuate upper surface 46a that is radially arcuate from the center of the upper surface 45a toward the end 46b. Multiple arcuate upper surfaces 46a cooperate with each other to support the silencing component 47 housed in the silencing chamber 44 from below. The protrusion 46 has a raised surface 46c extending substantially vertically from the end 46b. At a portion of the protrusion 46 further radially outward than the raised surface 46c, an outer peripheral protrusion 46d is formed that is lower than the raised surface 46c. The outer peripheral protrusion 46d, at the upper part of the outer peripheral upper surface 45b, slopes downward toward the outer periphery 45f, mimicking the slope of the outer peripheral upper surface 45b. Thus, the outer peripheral protrusion 46d is formed at approximately the same height at any point on the outer peripheral upper surface 45b.

[0052] like Figure 5 , 8 As shown, a plurality of through holes 45e are formed on the upper surface 45b of the outer periphery, which are surrounded by a boss and extend through the periphery in the vertical direction. By passing a fixing screw 48 through the through holes 45e and threading it into the threaded hole 43d, the lower cover 45 can be installed on the lower part of the cylindrical cover 43.

[0053] As mentioned above, such as Figure 4 As shown, the air compressor 1 includes: a compressor 20 for compressing incoming air, and a container 3 for storing the compressed air discharged from the compressor 20. The air compressor 1 is provided with: a condensate drain pipe 42 for discharging air and condensate from the container 3 to the outside of the container 3, and a drain valve 41 located midway along the condensate drain pipe 42 for opening and closing the condensate drain pipe 42. The air compressor 1 is provided with: a discharge pipe end portion 42b, which is the end of the condensate drain pipe 42 and has an upward-facing discharge port 42c; and a cylindrical cover 43, which has a top 43a that covers the discharge pipe end portion 42b from above.

[0054] Therefore, compressed air and condensate are discharged from the upward-facing outlet 42c into the upward-facing cylindrical cover 43. The top 43a of the cylindrical cover 43 can prevent condensate from being discharged to a position higher than the top 43a. By discharging condensate upwards from the drain outlet, splashing of condensate in the forward, backward, left, and right directions can be suppressed. By covering the front, back, left, and right sides of the discharge pipe end 42b with the cylindrical cover 43, splashing of condensate in the forward, backward, left, and right directions can be further suppressed. Thus, splashing of condensate discharged into the cylindrical cover 43 in the forward, backward, left, and right directions is suppressed, and it is discharged downwards from the lower part of the cylindrical cover 43. Since the discharge pipe end 42b is arranged with a longer vertical length, the opening area of ​​the lower part of the cylindrical cover 43 covering the discharge pipe end 42b can be reduced. In this way, the drainage area of ​​condensate can be reduced, thereby suppressing splashing of condensate.

[0055] like Figure 4 , 6 As shown, the air compressor 1 has a lower cover 45 that covers the lower opening of the cylindrical cover 43. Therefore, condensate discharged from the lower part of the cylindrical cover 43 falls onto the upper surface 45a and the upper surface 45b of the outer periphery of the lower cover 45, and is then discharged downwards from the outer periphery 45f of the lower cover 45. This confines the condensate drainage area to a narrow region within the outer periphery 45f of the lower cover 45.

[0056] like Figure 4 , 5 As shown, the air compressor 1 includes a silencing member 47 housed within a cylindrical cover 43 in a manner that covers the area around the discharge port 42c of the discharge pipe end 42b. Therefore, the force of the compressed air and condensate discharged from the discharge port 42c is reduced by the silencing member 47. This suppresses noise generated by the high-speed discharge of compressed air and the splashing of condensate. Furthermore, by providing the lower cover 45, the silencing member 47 can be retained within the cylindrical cover 43 and prevented from flowing out of the cylindrical cover 43.

[0057] like Figure 4 As shown, the muffler 47 is made of metal wool. Therefore, the muffler 47 is made of a high-strength metal. This prevents deformation of the muffler 47 when compressed air and condensate are discharged from the outlet 42c. This also prevents the performance of the muffler 47, which weakens the pressure of compressed air and condensate, from decreasing from the time of manufacture. Furthermore, because the muffler 47 is fibrous, condensate that enters the muffler 47 is easily discharged to the outside of the muffler 47. This allows condensate to be discharged without remaining inside the cylindrical cover 43.

[0058] like Figure 5 , 8As shown, the lower cover 45 has a support portion 49 that supports the silencing member 47 from below. Therefore, the support portion 49 can hold the silencing member 47 inside the cylindrical cover 43. This prevents condensate from remaining inside the cylindrical cover 43. Consequently, when condensate is discharged from the cylindrical cover 43, the outflow of the silencing member 47 can be suppressed.

[0059] like Figure 5 , 8 As shown, the lower cover 45 has a plurality of protrusions 46 provided on the support portion 49 and protruding upward, and a drainage groove 45c between the plurality of protrusions 46 that guides condensate water outward in a peripheral direction. Therefore, the plurality of protrusions 46 can keep the silencing member 47 in an upward position without lowering it. Thus, a gap can be ensured between the upper surface 45a of the lower cover 45 and the silencing member 47. Accordingly, condensate water that has entered the silencing member 47 can easily flow downward through the gap and be discharged. Moreover, by forming the drainage groove 45c, condensate water can be discharged toward the outer peripheral edge 45f of the lower cover 45. In this way, condensate water can be discharged in a manner that does not expand the drainage area and does not remain in the cylindrical cover 43.

[0060] like Figure 5 As shown, the lower cover 45 is connected to the cylindrical cover 43. Therefore, by connecting the lower cover 45 to the cylindrical cover 43, a drainage passage can be formed between the outer periphery 45f of the lower cover 45 and the lower part 43c of the cylindrical cover 43. As a result, condensate can be discharged from the narrow drainage area corresponding to the outer periphery 45f of the lower cover 45 in a manner that does not expand.

[0061] like Figure 5 , 8 As shown, the upper surface 45b of the outer periphery of the lower cover 45 is a cone shape that slopes downward toward the outer periphery 45f. Therefore, condensate can be effectively discharged along the cone-shaped upper surface 45b of the outer periphery of the lower cover 45 toward the outer periphery 45f of the lower cover 45. This prevents condensate from accumulating on the upper surface 45a and the upper surface 45b of the outer periphery of the lower cover 45.

[0062] like Figure 5 As shown, the lower part 43c of the cylindrical cover 43 is a cone that extends downward and outward in a manner similar to the upper surface 45b of the cone-shaped outer periphery of the lower cover 45, and is opposite to the upper surface 45b of the cone-shaped outer periphery. Therefore, a drainage path with a specified height can be formed between the lower part 43c and the upper surface 45b of the cone-shaped outer periphery. As a result, condensate can be effectively discharged towards the outer periphery 45f of the lower cover 45. Moreover, since the lower part 43c can be arranged close to the upper surface 45b of the outer periphery, the silencing component 47 can be prevented from flowing out of the cylindrical cover 43.

[0063] like Figure 6 As shown, the air compressor 1 has multiple containers 3. Between the multiple containers 3 are arranged: the discharge pipe end 42b of the condensate discharge pipe 42 and the cylindrical cover 43 (see reference). Figure 4 Therefore, the space between multiple containers 3 can be utilized to accommodate the discharge pipe end 42b of the condensate drain pipe 42 and the cylindrical cover 43. As a result, the air compressor 1 can be compactly formed.

[0064] The air compressor 1 of this embodiment described above can be modified in various ways. An example is shown where the discharge pipe end 42b of the condensate discharge pipe 42 extends substantially vertically upwards, and the discharge port 42c is open upwards. Alternatively, the discharge pipe end 42b may be inclined, for example, within the range of 60° to 90°. Or, the opening direction of the discharge port 42c may be inclined, for example, within the range of 30° from vertically upwards.

[0065] A cylindrical cover 43 is illustrated. Alternatively, a cylindrical cover with, for example, an oval or polygonal cross-section can also be provided. The top 43a of the cylindrical cover 43 is not limited to a planar shape; for example, it can also be hemispherical or conical.

[0066] The noise-absorbing component 47 is not limited to stainless steel and can also be made of other metal materials that are resistant to rust. Furthermore, the noise-absorbing component 47 can also be made of materials such as glass wool formed from glass fibers. The noise-absorbing component 47 is not limited to fibrous components; for example, it can also be formed as a component with numerous fine gaps, created by sintering multiple small metal spheres.

[0067] An example configuration is shown where multiple protrusions 46 are arranged radially from the center of the lower cover 45 toward the outer periphery 45f, thereby forming multiple drainage channels 45c radially from the center toward the outer periphery 45f among the multiple protrusions 46. Alternatively, for example, the radial centers of the multiple protrusions 46 and the multiple drainage channels 45c may be offset from the center of the lower cover 45. Accordingly, for example, condensate can be discharged with the rear portion of the outer periphery 45f as the center, thereby narrowing the condensate drainage area.

[0068] An air compressor 1 is illustrated with two containers 3 arranged side-by-side in a horizontal direction. Alternatively, there may be one or more containers 3. Multiple containers 3 can also be arranged side-by-side vertically or stacked in a mountain-like shape. Although a compressor 20 with a two-stage compression mechanism is illustrated, a one-stage or three-stage compression mechanism can also be used. The electric motor 12 can also be replaced with, for example, an internal combustion engine as the power source.

Claims

1. An air compressor, characterized in that, The air compressor has: A compressor, which compresses the incoming air; A container for storing compressed air discharged from the compressor; A condensate drain pipe discharges air and condensate from inside the container to the outside of the container; A drain valve is located in the middle of the condensate drain pipe and is used to open and close the condensate drain pipe. The end of the discharge pipe, which is the end of the condensate discharge pipe, has an upward-facing discharge port; A cylindrical cover having a top that covers the end of the discharge pipe from above and a downward opening; The lower cover covers the opening of the cylindrical cover; as well as A silencing component is housed within the cylindrical cover in a manner that covers the area around the outlet at the end of the discharge pipe. The lower cover has a support portion that supports the sound-absorbing component from below, and has a plurality of protrusions disposed on the support portion and protruding upward, and a drainage ditch between the plurality of protrusions that guides the condensate in the outward peripheral direction.

2. The air compressor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The noise-reducing component is made of metal wool.

3. The air compressor according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The lower cover is connected to the cylindrical cover.

4. The air compressor according to claim 3, characterized in that, The upper surface of the outer periphery of the lower cover is a cone shape that slopes downward toward the outer periphery.

5. The air compressor according to claim 4, characterized in that, The lower part of the cylindrical cover is a cone shape that extends downward and outward in a manner that mimics the cone-shaped upper surface of the lower cover, and is opposite to the cone-shaped upper surface of the lower cover.

6. The air compressor according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The air compressor has multiple containers. The end of the condensate drain pipe is disposed between the plurality of containers and the cylindrical cover.

Images