These compact, self-contained models provide compressed air straight from a automobile’s electrical system. Working on 12 volts DC, they eradicate the necessity for exterior energy sources or giant, stationary compressors. They discover use in functions resembling inflating tires, powering small air instruments, or working air suspension techniques on autos. For example, a consumer would possibly make use of one to re-inflate a flat tire on a distant path, utilizing the unit linked on to their automobile’s battery.
The comfort and portability of those techniques supply important benefits. Their self-contained nature makes them particularly helpful in conditions the place entry to traditional air sources is proscribed. Traditionally, reliance readily available pumps or dependence on service stations introduced inconveniences. These gadgets present a dependable and available air provide, growing automobile versatility and self-sufficiency. This improves security and expands the potential makes use of of a automobile by offering on-demand pneumatic energy.
The next sections will delve into the specifics of choosing applicable models based mostly on software, set up procedures, upkeep pointers, and potential security concerns related to those automotive equipment. Elements resembling circulate charge, obligation cycle, and tank capability will probably be examined intimately, together with finest practices for making certain long-term reliability.
1. Inflation Functionality
The flexibility to quickly and reliably inflate tires types a core justification for adopting a cellular compressed air system. Think about a automobile stranded miles from help, a flat tire rendering it motionless. In such situations, the inflation functionality shouldn’t be merely a comfort, however a lifeline, enabling a return to security and resuming the journey. The effectiveness of a cellular compressed air supply in such moments hinges on particular elements.
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Stream Fee (CFM)
Measured in Cubic Toes per Minute (CFM), circulate charge defines the amount of air delivered by the unit. A better CFM interprets to quicker inflation occasions. For example, a system delivering 2 CFM will inflate a tire considerably faster than one delivering just one CFM. Inadequate circulate charge results in extended wait occasions and might pressure the compressor motor, doubtlessly lowering its lifespan.
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Most Stress (PSI)
Kilos per Sq. Inch (PSI) signifies the very best strain the unit can generate. Correct tire inflation requires reaching a selected PSI stage, dictated by the tire producer. Making an attempt to inflate a tire past the compressor’s most PSI is futile, whereas working constantly close to the strain restrict can injury the unit. The required PSI is commonly printed on the tire sidewall.
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Tire Dimension Compatibility
The amount of air required to inflate a tire will increase proportionally with tire dimension. A compact automobile tire requires considerably much less air than a big off-road truck tire. Methods designed for smaller tires might battle or be unable to totally inflate bigger tires. Matching the compressor’s functionality to the standard tire dimension encountered ensures satisfactory efficiency.
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Hose Size and Connections
The size and high quality of the air hose straight influence ease of use and inflation effectivity. A sufficiently lengthy hose permits entry to all tires with out repositioning the automobile. Safe and leak-free connections are important for sustaining strain and stopping air loss. Low-quality hoses can crack or rupture underneath strain, rendering the system unusable.
Efficient tire inflation depends on the harmonious interplay of those components. A cellular compressed air system with excessive circulate charge, satisfactory strain, applicable tire compatibility, and a dependable hose provides a sensible resolution for sustaining optimum tire strain. This, in flip, contributes to improved gasoline effectivity, prolonged tire life, and enhanced automobile security. Thus, the inflation functionality isn’t just a specification, however a core determinant of the system’s total utility.
2. Responsibility Cycle
The solar beat down on the desert panorama, shimmering warmth rising from the parched earth. A lone overlander, miles from civilization, knelt beside a automobile with a deflated tire. The transportable compressor, a trustworthy companion on many journeys, was now the essential software separating them from a doubtlessly perilous scenario. However this small machine held a secret, a limitation typically ignored: the obligation cycle. The compressor roared to life, laboring to refill the massive off-road tire. Minutes ticked by, the metallic casing rising more and more scorching. Unbeknownst to the traveler, the compressor was nearing the top of its prescribed on-time. A sudden, sputtering halt the compressor, overheated and briefly disabled, fell silent. The obligation cycle, outlined as the proportion of time a compressor can function inside a given interval (typically expressed as a share over a 30-minute interval), had been exceeded. This occasion served as a stark lesson: understanding obligation cycle is paramount when counting on these compact air sources.
The ramifications of ignoring the obligation cycle lengthen past mere inconvenience. Overheating can completely injury the compressor’s motor, rendering it ineffective on the most crucial moments. Contemplate a building crew utilizing a conveyable compressor to energy nail weapons. A low obligation cycle would possibly pressure frequent pauses, considerably slowing down work and impacting productiveness. In distinction, a compressor with a excessive obligation cycle, maybe 50% and even 100%, can maintain steady operation for prolonged intervals, permitting for seamless workflow. Equally, for a person utilizing the compressor to take care of air suspension on a automobile, a poor obligation cycle means doubtlessly uneven suspension ranges and a compromised trip high quality, notably throughout extended driving classes.
Responsibility cycle serves as a silent governor, defending the integrity of the machine and straight influencing the reliability and sustained efficiency of the onboard air system. Ignoring it courts mechanical failure and disappointment. Being attentive to the specification, deciding on a compressor whose obligation cycle aligns with the supposed functions, transforms the transportable air supply from a possible legal responsibility right into a reliable asset. The sensible consumer respects this limitation, making certain the compressor stands prepared when genuinely wanted, providing not simply air, but additionally the reassurance of dependable operation in demanding conditions.
3. Tank Capability
The desert wind howled, whipping sand towards the metallic pores and skin of the classic Land Cruiser. Deep ruts marked the terrain, a testomony to days spent navigating unforgiving backcountry. A strain gauge on the dashboard flickered, a delicate indication of the automobile’s air suspension system at work, consistently adjusting to the uneven floor. Central to that system, tucked securely inside the chassis, resided an air tank. Not merely a container, however a strategic reservoir, its capability straight shaping the Land Cruiser’s potential to sort out the challenges forward. For the 12v on board air compressor tasked with feeding this method, the tank introduced each alternative and demand.
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Pneumatic Burst Capability
The air tank features as an accumulator, a supply of available compressed air. Think about momentarily needing extra air than the compressor can present instantaneously – maybe to rapidly seat a tire bead or to actuate an air locker. The tank bridges that hole. With out satisfactory capability, the system might lack the ‘burst’ wanted for these demanding moments. Contemplate, for instance, a scenario the place an air locker wants speedy engagement on a steep incline. A small tank would possibly deplete rapidly, resulting in a delayed or incomplete locking motion, doubtlessly inflicting the automobile to lose traction and threat sliding. A bigger tank provides sustained engagement and improved management.
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Compressor Responsibility Cycle Reduction
The tank offloads the 12v compressor. As a substitute of regularly biking to fulfill small air calls for, the compressor fills the tank, then rests till the tank strain drops to a pre-defined threshold. This extends the compressor’s lifespan by lowering put on and tear and prevents overheating. A smaller tank forces the compressor to run incessantly, doubtlessly shortening its operational life, notably in demanding circumstances. Then again, a bigger tank ensures much less frequent compressor begins, contributing to a extra sturdy and dependable system total.
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Air Software Functionality
An air tank extends the potential of the 12v system past tire inflation. With adequate tank quantity and strain, the system can energy small air instruments resembling influence wrenches, air ratchets, and even paint sprayers. Restricted tank capability limits the vary of instruments that may be successfully used. A small tank would possibly solely permit for a short burst of software operation, forcing frequent pauses for the compressor to refill. An adequately sized tank allows extra sustained software use, making the system extra versatile for subject repairs and upkeep.
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System Stability and Response
The dimensions of the tank influences the general stability and responsiveness of the air system. A big tank offers a buffer towards strain fluctuations, leading to extra constant efficiency of linked elements like air suspension techniques. Fast adjustments in strain attributable to air utilization are dampened, resulting in smoother changes and a extra steady trip. In techniques used for pneumatic actuation of car elements, the tank capability can considerably influence how these elements reply to instructions.
The tank’s capability, due to this fact, turns into a key determinant within the total effectiveness of any 12v on board air compressor system. It is a query of matching out there air to the anticipated calls for. The Land Cruiser, bouncing throughout the desert panorama, was a cellular testomony to this steadiness. Its air tank, meticulously sized for the trials of off-road journey, quietly ensured optimum efficiency and, in the end, the success of the journey.
4. Energy Consumption
The flickering dashboard lights hinted at a rising drawback. Nightfall was settling over the distant campsite, and the lone traveler was trying to inflate a cussed off-road tire with a 12v on board air compressor. The compressor labored, its whine rising extra strained with every passing minute. The automobile’s battery, already taxed by auxiliary lighting and an extended day’s drive, was struggling. A crucial relationship was unfolding: the compressor’s energy consumption was exceeding the automobile’s capability to supply it reliably. The compressor, a doubtlessly invaluable software, was on the verge of changing into a legal responsibility.
Energy consumption dictates the demand the compressor locations on the automobile’s electrical system. Measured in Amperes (amps), it displays the present drawn throughout operation. A excessive amp draw can rapidly deplete the battery, particularly throughout extended use or if the automobile’s engine shouldn’t be working to replenish the cost. Low-amperage models would possibly supply slower inflation speeds, however reduce the danger of draining the battery. Choosing a unit with out accounting for energy consumption might result in stranded autos, broken batteries, and even electrical system failures. A supply van incessantly utilizing compressed air for duties could be well-advised to spend money on a system with environment friendly energy administration. In any other case, frequent battery replacements and charging downtime might outweigh the advantages of the compressor.
Understanding and managing energy consumption is due to this fact paramount. Cautious consideration of the automobile’s electrical system, battery capability, and the compressor’s amp draw is essential to making sure dependable operation. Integrating the compressor with an auxiliary battery or a strong charging system can mitigate the danger of battery drain. Prudent customers monitor the voltage ranges throughout operation and restrict run occasions to stop over-depletion. Energy consumption is not only a technical specification; it’s a pivotal issue defining the practicality and reliability of any 12v on board air compressor, making certain its utility stays an asset relatively than a supply of frustration and sudden breakdown.
5. Mounting Location
The relentless Australian solar beat down on the dusty outback monitor. A seasoned off-roader, years of expertise etched on their face, meticulously inspected the undercarriage of a modified 4×4. Not simply the suspension elements or the skid plates earned consideration, but additionally the unassuming metallic field housing the onboard air compressor. The situation of this machine, seemingly a minor element, might imply the distinction between a fast tire inflation and a catastrophic failure. The chosen location shapes the operational lifespan, accessibility, and in the end, the utility of the 12v on board air compressor.
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Environmental Publicity
Placement straight influences publicity to harsh components. A compressor mounted underneath the automobile, unprotected, endures fixed bombardment from street particles, water, and dust. This hastens corrosion, clogs air filters, and might injury delicate elements. Conversely, a unit housed inside the automobile’s cabin enjoys relative safety, however sacrifices helpful inside house and doubtlessly introduces noise and vibration. The perfect location balances safety with accessibility. A compressor mounted in a sealed toolbox within the truck mattress, as an example, provides a compromise between safety and comfort.
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Accessibility for Upkeep
Routine upkeep, resembling filter cleansing or hose inspection, requires quick access to the compressor. Burying the unit deep inside the engine bay would possibly supply some safety however complicates servicing. A compressor mounted in an simply accessible location permits for fast upkeep checks and minor repairs, growing its lifespan and reliability. Contemplate a business automobile counting on compressed air for instruments or air suspension. In such circumstances, ease of entry for day by day inspection and upkeep is paramount to attenuate downtime and guarantee operational readiness.
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Vibration and Noise Isolation
Compressors generate vibration and noise throughout operation. Direct mounting to the automobile’s body can transmit these vibrations all through the automobile, inflicting discomfort and doubtlessly loosening different elements. Using rubber isolation mounts minimizes vibration switch, bettering the driving expertise and lowering the danger of structural injury. Equally, enclosing the compressor inside an insulated compartment can cut back noise ranges, particularly vital in passenger autos. A poorly remoted compressor can rework a snug trip into an irritating ordeal.
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Thermal Administration
Compressors generate warmth throughout operation. Mounting in a poorly ventilated space can result in overheating, lowering effectivity and doubtlessly inflicting injury. Guaranteeing satisfactory airflow across the compressor is essential for thermal administration. Mounting the unit in an open space or using a forced-air cooling system helps dissipate warmth, bettering efficiency and lengthening lifespan. For instance, integrating a small cooling fan into the compressor’s mounting location can successfully mitigate warmth buildup in confined areas.
The choice of a mounting location is excess of a matter of comfort; it represents a calculated choice impacting the longevity, reliability, and total effectiveness of the 12v on board air compressor. The seasoned off-roader, rigorously inspecting the undercarriage, understood this implicitly. The chosen location mirrored a deep understanding of the environmental challenges, upkeep wants, and the fragile steadiness required for sustained efficiency. The compressor, correctly mounted, stood prepared for regardless of the outback would possibly throw its means.
6. Air Software Compatibility
The noon solar glinted off the chrome of a classic pickup truck, stranded on a dusty farm street. A damaged ball joint, a typical illness of age and exhausting work, had rendered the automobile motionless. From the truck mattress, a conveyable toolbox emerged, revealing not solely wrenches and sockets, but additionally a compact air influence wrench, a software promising swift decision to the mechanical drawback. Central to this hope lay a small, but crucial piece of kit: the 12v on board air compressor. Nonetheless, promise turns to frustration if the compressor lacks the capability to energy the influence wrench successfully. Air software compatibility dictates the vary of duties a cellular compressed air system can undertake, straight shaping its utility and worth. Contemplate the influence wrench, a strong software demanding a big quantity of compressed air at a selected strain. If the compressor’s output, measured in CFM and PSI, falls wanting the software’s necessities, the influence wrench will sputter and battle, unable to ship the required torque. The rusted bolts holding the ball joint in place will stay stubbornly fastened, and the truck will stay stranded.
The problem stems from the variety of air instruments. Nail weapons, requiring brief bursts of high-pressure air, current totally different calls for than continuous-flow instruments like grinders or sanders. An airbrush, needing a low-pressure, fixed stream of air for delicate paintwork, additional illustrates the spectrum of necessities. For a 12v on board air compressor to be really versatile, it have to be paired with instruments whose air consumption aligns with its output capabilities. Making an attempt to function a high-demand software with an undersized compressor results in inefficiency, software injury, and consumer frustration. Conversely, rigorously matching the compressor’s specs to the supposed air instruments unlocks a variety of potentialities, remodeling a primary tire inflator right into a cellular workshop. Farmers and ranchers can use air ratchets to service tools within the subject, carpenters can function nail weapons at distant job websites, and mechanics can carry out roadside repairs with confidence, all because of the synergistic relationship between the compressor and the chosen air instruments.
In the end, assessing air software compatibility includes a cautious analysis of each the compressor’s capabilities and the software’s necessities. Understanding the CFM and PSI calls for of every software, and deciding on a compressor that exceeds these necessities, ensures dependable operation and unlocks the complete potential of the cellular compressed air system. Failing to deal with this important issue reduces a doubtlessly versatile software to a mere novelty. Subsequently, air software compatibility turns into a pivotal consideration, guiding the choice course of and defining the sensible limitations and potentialities of the 12v on board air compressor system, making certain it stays a helpful resolution for a myriad of duties and the software that truly resolves the emergency.
7. Sturdiness Expectations
Mud swirled across the weathered Jeep, a veteran of numerous off-road expeditions. The onboard air compressor, a seemingly insignificant element tucked away within the engine bay, bore the brunt of those journeys. Its survival, its continued potential to inflate tires and energy small instruments, depended not solely on its preliminary building, but additionally on the proprietor’s understanding of its inherent limitations and the environmental challenges it confronted. The longevity of the compressor was a direct consequence of aligning sturdiness expectations with actuality.
Contemplate two similar compressors put in in vastly totally different environments. One, meticulously maintained and protected against the weather inside a climate-controlled workshop, performs flawlessly for years, inflating tires and powering airbrushes with ease. The opposite, carelessly mounted on a farm automobile, uncovered to mud, moisture, and vibration, succumbs to corrosion and mechanical failure inside a season. The disparity in lifespan highlights the essential position of sensible sturdiness expectations. A farmer demanding years of dependable service from a compressor routinely subjected to harsh circumstances should spend money on a heavy-duty mannequin, engineered to resist the trials of agricultural work. Equally, an overlander anticipating constant efficiency in excessive temperatures and altitudes requires a compressor designed for such demanding environments. With out understanding the compressor’s limitations and the influence of exterior elements, the result is inevitable: untimely failure and wasted funding. A fleet supervisor would possibly implement a rigorous inspection and upkeep schedule, whereas personal homeowners would possibly depend on much less frequent check-ups. In each situations, the anticipation of particular product lifespans turns into tied to the consumer’s upkeep routine.
Assembly sturdiness expectations due to this fact calls for a two-pronged method: deciding on a compressor applicable for the supposed working circumstances and implementing a proactive upkeep program. Selecting a mannequin with strong building, sealed elements, and corrosion-resistant supplies extends lifespan. Recurrently inspecting and cleansing the compressor, lubricating transferring components, and changing worn elements additional enhances longevity. In the end, the lifespan of a 12v on board air compressor shouldn’t be predetermined, it’s actively formed by the consumer’s understanding of its capabilities, its limitations, and the significance of proactive upkeep, remodeling a doubtlessly fragile machine right into a dependable companion for years to return.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions
The search for the perfect cellular compressed air resolution is fraught with questions. Misunderstandings and assumptions can result in disappointment and tools failure. The next clarifies widespread inquiries relating to 12v on board air compressors, providing perception gleaned from years of sensible expertise.
Query 1: Will any 12v unit adequately inflate giant off-road tires?
The story of a distant expedition serves as a cautionary instance. Making an attempt to inflate outsized tires with an underpowered compressor resulted in hours of frustration and a dangerously depleted battery. The lesson discovered: sizing issues. Bigger tires demand increased CFM and PSI rankings. Items designed for passenger automobiles typically lack the capability to deal with the amount necessities of off-road tires. Fastidiously seek the advice of the tire producer’s specs and choose a compressor accordingly.
Query 2: Can these gadgets reliably energy air instruments for prolonged intervals?
The picture of a bustling building website involves thoughts. A staff counting on a small 12v compressor to energy a framing nailer found the restrictions of obligation cycle. The compressor repeatedly overheated and shut down, halting progress. Whereas these compressors can energy air instruments, their obligation cycle and tank capability typically prohibit sustained use. Contemplate the precise software necessities and the length of operation earlier than committing to a selected unit.
Query 3: Are these compressors really “on board” or require exterior mounting?
A novice overlander envisioned a seamless integration, anticipating a compact unit that effortlessly tucked away. Actuality struck when confronted with the mounting challenges. Some models are designed for in-cabin set up, whereas others demand exterior placement, typically requiring customized brackets. Confirm mounting necessities and assess the out there house earlier than buy. “On board” implies portability, not essentially easy integration.
Query 4: Do these models require specialised electrical techniques for protected operation?
The story of a roadside breakdown offers readability. Overloading the automobile’s electrical system with a high-amp compressor resulted in a blown fuse and a stranded traveler. These compressors draw important present. Assess the automobile’s electrical capability and think about putting in an auxiliary battery or a heavy-duty alternator to stop overload. Ignoring electrical calls for can result in system failure and potential fireplace hazards.
Query 5: How incessantly does one want to take care of these compressors?
A picture of a uncared for compressor, choked with mud and dirt, highlights the results of complacency. Routine upkeep is essential. Air filters require common cleansing or substitute, and transferring components want occasional lubrication. Neglecting these duties drastically shortens the compressor’s lifespan. A proactive upkeep schedule ensures sustained efficiency and prevents expensive repairs.
Query 6: Can these compressors function reliably in excessive temperatures?
The story of an arctic expedition reveals the restrictions of temperature sensitivity. A compressor, designed for reasonable climates, faltered in sub-zero circumstances. Some models are engineered for excessive temperatures, whereas others battle. Confirm the working temperature vary and choose a compressor suited to the anticipated surroundings. Ignoring temperature limitations can result in efficiency degradation and element failure.
These incessantly requested questions underscore the need of knowledgeable decision-making. Understanding the restrictions and calls for of 12v on board air compressors is paramount to attaining dependable and sustained efficiency.
The following part explores sensible set up concerns, offering pointers for protected and efficient integration right into a automobile.
Important Utilization Suggestions
Earlier than embarking on any journey, the reliability of kit have to be ensured. A 12v on board air compressor, although seemingly easy, calls for respect and understanding. The next insights, born from expertise and sometimes gleaned from exhausting classes, supply steerage towards maximizing utility and making certain dependability. These should not mere strategies, however ideas for accountable and efficient employment of those gadgets.
Tip 1: Heed the Responsibility Cycle.
Image a mechanic on a sweltering summer time day, pushing a compressor past its restrict to complete a job. The machine, groaning underneath the pressure, finally falters. Overheating, a frequent consequence of ignoring the obligation cycle, can cripple the compressor. Observe the prescribed on-time and off-time intervals. Enable for cooling intervals. Respecting this limitation shouldn’t be a suggestion, however a mandate for extended compressor life.
Tip 2: Safe a Sturdy Electrical Connection.
Envision a distant campsite plunged into darkness, the automobile’s battery drained by a poorly linked compressor. The lesson: a weak hyperlink can sever the chain. Guarantee strong, clear electrical connections. Use appropriately gauged wiring, and defend circuits with accurately sized fuses. A steady energy provide safeguards towards voltage drops, stopping injury to each the compressor and the automobile’s electrical system.
Tip 3: Safeguard In opposition to Environmental Contamination.
Contemplate a compressor, carelessly mounted beneath a automobile, enduring fixed assault from mud and street particles. Its air filter, clogged and choked, restricts airflow, diminishing efficiency and accelerating put on. Shield the compressor from environmental hazards. Make the most of splash guards, commonly clear or substitute air filters, and think about a mounting location that minimizes publicity to contaminants. A clear compressor is a functioning compressor.
Tip 4: Routinely Examine Air Hoses and Fittings.
Think about a roadside tire inflation abruptly halted by a ruptured air hose. The consequence: frustration and delay. Recurrently examine air hoses for cracks, abrasions, and leaks. Guarantee tight connections in any respect fittings. Change worn hoses promptly. A compromised air supply system negates the compressor’s capabilities.
Tip 5: Correctly Handle Moisture.
Image the inside of a compressor’s air tank, corroded by collected moisture. Rust weakens the tank, compromising its structural integrity and contaminating the air provide. Periodically drain the air tank to take away collected moisture. Contemplate putting in an inline desiccant filter to additional cut back moisture content material within the compressed air.
Tip 6: Stow Air Hose Correctly
Visualize an air hose that has cracks and splits, or that has been contaminated by being saved on high of oil or one thing else. Stow the air hose correctly to stop injury and elongate its life.
By adhering to those ideas, by acknowledging limitations and embracing proactive upkeep, the 12v on board air compressor transforms from a possible supply of frustration right into a dependable asset. Respect the tools, and it’ll serve faithfully. Disregard these pointers, and threat encountering avoidable setbacks. The selection, as at all times, rests with the consumer.
The following part provides troubleshooting steerage, addressing widespread points and offering options for sustaining optimum efficiency.
The Enduring Utility of Cellular Air
The narrative of the 12v on board air compressor has been traced, from its basic function to its intricate relationship with obligation cycles, energy consumption, and environmental elements. The worth of understanding its capabilities and limitations, its calls for and dependencies, is simple. Selecting properly and sustaining diligently ensures it stays a software, not a burden.
In a world more and more reliant on mobility and self-sufficiency, the 12v on board air compressor stands as a testomony to ingenuity, a compact resolution to an age-old want. Its future hinges not solely on technological developments, but additionally on the knowledge of those that make use of it, who perceive that energy, even in its most handy type, calls for respect and accountability. It’s a software ready for use and to proceed to serve faithfully and dependently to its proprietor.
