Being a contractor or in the automotive sector, you definitely require an air compressor that is efficient and reliable. Air compressors are also used in residential and manufacturing sectors to complete projects as well used to operate other handy tools.
It is important to comprehend how an air compressor operates so that it can perform efficiently. Understanding how to choose an air compressor will enable you to run your projects efficiently. What is important to note is an air compressor that provides clean air pressurized and free from contamination.
Types Of Air Compressor
There are various types of air compressors available in the market today. Hence, you need to understand the right kind of air compressor that will handle the task at hand. That said, it is important to note that there are three main types of air compressors available in the market today that include: –
Rotary screw compressor
This air compressor works by compressing air using two screws or rotors hence trapping air between the roots and compressing it. They are substantial industrial machines that generally start at a speed of 10 HP (7 kW) going all the way to 1000 HP (700 kW), earning the name of a beast of an air compressor. Rotary screw compressors, which are positive displacement, work correctly in manufacturing industries in running the production process.
Centrifugal compressors
This is another type of air compressor that operates through a dynamic compression form. As such, it produces air that is highly pressurized through a rotating impeller. This process is commonly known as dynamic displacement. To be able to work efficiently, this air compressor uses immense speed rotation. These are also oil-free compressors whose oil-lubricated parts are disconnected from the pressurized airflow through the use of seals and vents.
Reciprocating compressors
This is an air compressor usually referred to as a positive displacement compressor that uses a piston within a cylinder that pumps and displaces air, increasing its volume in the long run. When the desired air volume is achieved, it is enclosed and stored for use.
How To Choose An Air Compressor
The incredible benefits of an air compressor will make your project successful without a doubt. Getting the right type of air compressor should not be a challenge once you understand your needs. This guide will enable you to know how to choose an air compressor and the factors to look into.
Motor power
The output power of the air compressor you end up choosing should be prioritized because it will determine the power by which your machine will operate on. You have to select an air compressor with top-notch horsepower, especially if you are a contractor for that your operation will run smoothly. Remember that the higher the horsepower, the powerful the air compressor will be. Check on the amount of electrical power it uses when in operation, for that will indicate the strength of the motor power.
Oil-free operation
Maintaining air compressors may not be an easy task, but once you choose one with the oil-free operation, you will not spend a lot of time maintaining it. You do not have to worry about oil leaking once you choose a model with oil-free operation hence keeping your place of business clean at all times. The environment is also taken care of with this model because there are no polluting instances. When using an oil-free operation compressor, you end up saving a lot due to minimal maintenance cost provision.
Electric Vs. Gas Air Compressors
Now, this is where the challenge comes in. Generally, air compressors are gas-powered or electric, with the electric air compressors being quite conventional. Using an electric compressor means connecting it to an extension cord to a source of power. On the other hand, gas-powered air compressors can be used anywhere, for they do not need the power to operate; hence, you can wheel them wherever you wish to. For many years, contractors have opted for gas-powered air compressors because of their convenience in the field, while many businesses go for electric air compressors. The choice will be termed by the type of project you are running so that you don’t end up getting inconvenienced in the long run. That said, it is essential to note that gas air compressors are quite costly, so if considering choosing one, be aware that you might end up spending a lot on them.
Space and portability
The space where your air compressor will be placed is of enormous importance. Like any other machine in the market, an air compressor comes in different sizes hence the space that it will occupy is not the same. A big machine will need to be placed at a stationary position where it cannot be moved. Do you have enough space for it? That’s where the portability of convenience comes in high capacity compressors. If you choose to go for an air compressor, which is stationary, then you will have to get a long hose for convenience when carrying out your tasks.
Air-cooling systems
The air compressor you finally opt for should have air-cooling capabilities that ensure that as the pumping machinery works, it remains cool till all the tasks are completed. The air-cooling system also prolongs the motor’s lifespan, which is the center point of the air compressor.
Features offered
Different air compressor models come with various features; hence it is crucial to check on the features you are about to choose offers. Features play a huge role in meeting all your requirements making carrying out your task much more manageable. Some of the features you can check on are multiple couplers, air-cooling systems, thermal protection, roll cage, adjustable exhaust, belt-drive system, ball valve drain, cord wrap, and other accessories. Each of the mentioned features plays a vital role in an air compressor; that is why you should choose an air compressor with most of these features.
Note: In our review, we have discussed how to choose an air compressor to understand what to look for in an air compressor. For more information on the best-Off Road Air Compressor, please take a look at our previous article.
Benefits Of Using An Air Compressor
Air compressors are essential machines used to make operating a specified task easier. Without an air compressor, you may not be able to handle many functions because of the energy required. Air compressors come with an array of benefits, which include;
- Air compressors can be used in the commercial or industrial sectors, making them essential machines for completing even complex tasks.
- An air compressor can be used for cleaning different surfaces and even places because of its ability to produce high-pressure blasts of air that eliminate air.
- You can choose between a small portable air compressor and a big air compressor placed at a specific position hence easy to operate from a specified place.
- Air compressors provide you with a choice between an electric or gas-powered compressor. You have an option to choose the one that suits your needs best.
- An air compressor’s durability is exceptional, meaning it will serve you for a long time, making a significant investment.
Frequently Asked Question
Do you need to refill an air compressor?
An air compressor can be refilled with about 1 to 6 gallons. Note that a large tank will hold more air without having to keep on refilling.
How long will air compressor last?
Air compressors are incredibly durable machines that can operate fully for almost 30 years.
What size air compressor do I need to run air tools?
You will need an air compressor’s requirements with a size of 10 cfm at 100 to 120 psi.
Final Thoughts
We can all agree that an air compressor is a remarkable machine to have that will suit your needs. Having a good air compressor ensures that no matter how complex the task is, it gets handled. An excellent air compressor is not the expensive one rather one that is efficient and reliable.
That is why you need to understand how to choose an air compressor, one that will not just be expensive but one with essential features. There are many models out there; hence choosing the right one requires understanding the task at hand.
