The atmospheric pressure is much lower at 10,000'. Less pressure for the compressor intake and therefore less pressure and flow on the output. The compressor alone can't make up the difference.
Air cooled electronics and motors are also effected by the thin air - less cooling capacity of the atmosphere.
We may possibly do a project in Pueblo. That's at about 5000'. This is similar to one in Kentucky which is about 500'. All of the motor sizes/speeds on the compressors and blowers had to be bumped up in order to achieve the operating pressure and flow requirements. The operating pressure is only 0.65 PSI. The flow is what took the biggest hit. Also had to add (2) 12" cooling fans to the control panel, where in KY, didn't need them, even tho it gets warmer.
It may not be an issue with the small compressor you have, but I would at least double check. Gast use to have a manual out, but I can only find one section of it. It is an issue.
I guess solar panels work a lot better up at the higher elevations.
EDIT: Gast requests you contact them before using their equipment at high altitudes.
Here is a bit from a DC motor manufacturer on altitude:
ALTITUDE - Standard motor ratings are based on operation at any altitude up to 3300 feet (1000 meters). All altitudes up to and including 3300 feet are considered to be the same as sea level. High altitude derating is required because of lower air density that requires a greater amount of cooling. DC motors are derated by 3% per 1000 feet above the 3300 feet. In some cases, a blower will be sufficient to cool the motor instead of using a larger frame motor.
3300' seems to be the standard for industrial stuff.
Last edited by JKB; 04/07/15 05:06 PM.
