Secrets to Selecting the Right Air Compressor

Executive summary about Air Compressor by Tommy McGuire

Gain a basic understanding of Compressed Air terminology:

You'll be better informed to talk about your needs with any air compressor sales representative.

DUTY CYCLE:

The Duty Cycle is generally 75% in Reciprocating Compressors and 100%with Screw Air Compressors.

COMPRESSOR LOCATION:

These terms deal with the physical location of your compressor in relation to other equipment, noise level requirements, and ventilation. What ISO Air Quality Classification do you need? Do you need oil-free air? Breathing air? Both of these can be produced with oil-free compressors, or with lubricated compressors and additional filtration equipment. What Class does your air fall into? Plant Air: Air tools, general plant air Instrument Air: Laboratories, paint spraying, powder coating, climate control Process Air: Food and pharmaceutical process air, electronics Breathing Air: Hospital air systems, diving tank refill stations, respirators for cleaning and/or grit blasting

Identify available incoming electrical service before specifying an air compressor. Do you need a back-up compressor?

Apply your knowledge and data to help determine your air compressor specifications.

Now you are ready to take all your information gathered on your air compressor needs and talk to an authorized air compressor distributor. The two most popular types of air compressors are Reciprocating Compressors and Rotary Screw Compressors.

Reciprocating Air Compressors

- Low maintenance cost

- Higher energy operating cost

Rotary Screw Air Compressors

- Medium initial cost

- Lower energy operating cost