rsdoran said:I know air is already there BUT the more you use the more demand you put on the system. Whether its pulsing air or an air leak it adds to the demand of the system; which in effect causes more power to be used.
An example of sorts, others can offer more precise information, a simple air leak or small air line (even pulsed) can use 5HP (3.7KW). Calculating a years use of the power involved may show an ROI for another method.
They do make specifically engineered air fittings for blow offs, that get maximum results for minimum usage.
But, I agree about the expense of air. I think one of the other engineers here told me a few weeks ago that Air was one of the most expensive utilities around the shop. (Even though Operators waste it all the time, using the air lines to sweep the floor, and blow themselves off, and anything else they can think of, including putting it down their pants when they are hot )