Air Compressor Purchasing Guide

Introduction to the Air Compressor Buying Process

Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Trends
- Types
- Specs
- Choosing a Seller

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Introduction

Air tools have become a staple on many jobsites due to the simplicity and advantages they provide. In fact, it’s estimated that nearly every industry now relies on compressed air tooling to some degree. Among their greatest benefits are that they offer the freedom from electricity and don’t require their own motor – especially useful in rural areas or temporary locations like fairgrounds or music festivals. But for these tools to perform in locations that range from urban to rural, they do require the support of an adequate air compressor.

Air compressors power everything from large industrial production machinery to individual ratchet and impact wrenches, paint sprayers, and finish nailers. This broad application is where you often find a couple more major advantages of an air system: versatility and power. Regardless of the scope or location of your project, an air compressor accommodates the full range of compatible tools – switched as quickly and easily as changing a drill bit. Plus, when compared to standard tooling, air powered models often provide greater torque and higher RPMs.

Three types
Air compressors are available in three basic types:

1. Reciprocating – Positive displacement compressors that provide increased air pressure by limiting the volume of air. Available in single-stage and two-stage, they’re typically capable of outputs ranging from 1 to 15 hp.
2. Rotary screw – Positive displacement compressors that are considered simple to operate and maintain. Favored for their ability to provide continuous duty, their design provides cooling within the compressor’s interior, saving the individual parts from extreme operating temperatures and enabling them to deliver outputs that range from 7.5 to 100 hp and up.
3. Centrifugal – Compressors that do not rely on positive displacement and are most effective when running at their full capacity, making them ideal for operating environments in which demand is continuous and output needs start around 100 hp.

In general, air compressors are highly durable tools. For example, it’s estimated that a rotary compressor will last for 40,000 to 60,000 hours – the equivalent of full-time operation for 20 to 30 years. With regular maintenance, reciprocating compressors have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. Each of the three types also has a number of advantages and disadvantages we’ll cover in more detail below.

Importance of a professional dealer
You’ll quickly discover that air compressor dealers often specialize in a particular brand. The reason is manufacturers typically require exclusivity among their networks. While this entails a little more comparison shopping on your part, it ends up being a plus in the long-run. Specialization enables the dealers to become highly familiar with each of the models they’re selling, the specific applications they’ve been designed for, and the type of service required to keep them up and running.

This expertise allows them to consult on the exact type of machinery best suited to your intended application(s) and also offer value-based service packages at a fixed cost that can help you maintain the investment well into the future. In fact, by some estimates, maintenance and repair can account for as much as 20% of the total investment on a light-duty or industrial air compressor.

Estimated costs
The more power you need, the more you can expect to pay. But given the versatility of an air compressor, a single investment may end up saving you on the purchase of additional tooling and equipment.

Here are some estimated costs on popular specs:

[table]Type, Horsepower, CFM, PSI, Portable / Stationary Mounted, Estimated Cost
Reciprocating, 3 - 5 hp, 10.3 - 15.5 cfm, 135 psi, Portable, "$800 - $1,400"
Reciprocating, 7.5 hp, 24 cfm, 175 psi, Portable, "$1,900 - $2,200"
Rotary Screw, 10 hp, 34 cfm, 175 psi, Portable, "$2,700 - $5,200"
Rotary Screw, 15 hp, 46 cfm, 175 psi, Portable, "$2,900 - $7,500"
Rotary Screw, 80 hp, 185 cfm, 80 - 125 psi, Stationary, "$12,000 - $17,500"
Centrifugal, 20 - 200hp, 14.3 - 998 cfm, 75 - 150 psi, Stationary, "$17,000 - $24,000"
Centrifugal, 250 - 500hp, - cfm, 109 - 125 psi, Stationary, "$35,000 - $90,000"[/table]

Trends

Your specific application and the horsepower required to achieve it effectively will largely determine the air compressor you purchase. But there are a number of trends that may also factor into your purchase decision. The incorporation of one or more of the following has the potential to significantly increase the productivity and cost-effectiveness of your process.

Which of the following could apply to you?

Variable speed drive
This development uses variable speed technology and a special drive to control the speed of the unit, saving substantial energy – up to 35% less with some models – when compared to a fixed speed air compressor. With this vast potential for savings, some dealers cite variable speed drives as “superior to all other control technologies” on the market today.

In short, a variable speed drive automatically pairs its output to the user’s demand for air. The continuous, real-time nature of this development is what provides its peerless energy efficiency, reducing demands for power and fuel while also cutting emissions. Further cost and energy savings are found in its ability to provide unlimited motor starts, progressing from zero to full load without spikes in electric current or generating surplus heat.

Tier 4 engines
The Tier 4 category is known for its adherence to EPA guidelines regarding emissions control. But Tier 4 engines – often manufactured by leading brands like Caterpillar and John Deere – also provide fuel efficiencies that can save you on the total cost of ownership for a diesel-based air compressor.

Many of the top air compressors that incorporate Tier 4 engines are easily capable of 300 to 425 cfm at 100 to 200 psig. They feature advanced electronic control systems that include easy-to-read gauges and an LCD display, allowing the user to quickly adjust specific factors to achieve the optimum combination of performance and cost-effectiveness.

Though not standard to all, some models further extend their value through design enhancements. These can include a frame engineered for full fluid containment as well as easy access service doors that simplify service and maintenance for the fuel tank, engine, air filters, and other vital compartments.

Greater capacity, lower power requirements
The goal of almost every technology is to produce more with less. Air compressor manufacturers have pursued this goal by delivering ever higher levels of output on less fuel. One way they do it is through lower operating temperatures. By redesigning their compressors with lower internal temperatures, new models provide noticeable improvements in volumetric and electrical efficiencies.

Another aspect is seen in a trend we covered above: variable speed drive. Consider for example a rotary screw air compressor. Often integrated into woodworking and spray painting operations, auto body service and repair shops, and even larger industrial operations, they are often not a continuous use machine that has to operate at full capacity. In these situations, a variable speed drive is able to compensate for shifting power demands and monetize them – saving fuel, not to mention unnecessary wear and tear on machine parts. As mentioned above, this technology can reduce energy costs by more than a third, with some variable speed compressors even capable of operating on 40% less energy than their standard counterparts.

Oil-free rotary screw compressors
Essentially maintenance-free, oil-free or “oil-less” air compressors are permanently lubricated through a long-lasting treatment of Teflon or a similar synthetic resin. While oil free models aren’t ideal for continuous use applications, they’re great for short duty and home use. They’re also becoming one of the preferred types for spray painting outfits and other operations that require clean work environments. The reason is that oil-lubricated compressors discharge a small amount of oil in the form of mist, a design limitation that makes the mess difficult for some applications.

In addition to maintenance costs that are practically non-existent, oil-free compressors also tend to be less expensive due to a design that requires fewer parts. This minimalist design also makes them lighter, great for those needing portability.
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Types

As mentioned briefly in the introduction, air compressors are divided into three main types:

1. Reciprocating compressors
2. Rotary screw compressors
3. Centrifugal compressors

Within these three types, there are two different varieties. The more common of the two, encompassing two of the three types, operates through the use of positive displacement.

Positive displacement is a mechanical design that generates air pressure through a pump that’s split into two sides, suction and discharge. These two sides or cavities expand and decrease as air is pulled into the suction compartment and released on the discharge side during the compression stroke. Positive displacement is common among reciprocating and rotary screw air compressors because of its suitability to compressing small amounts of air into high pressures, as well as its ability to quickly disperse the heat resulting from compression.

With that in mind, the air compressor you select will be determined by a number of specific factors including power output requirements and portability.

Here’s how the three types compare.

Reciprocating air compressors
Reciprocating compressors are positive displacement models. The same volume of air that enters the compression chamber leaves the cylinder, pressurized to the necessary PSI. Usually falling on the smaller end of the output scale, reciprocating models feature one of two different cylinders:

• Lubricated – An abbreviated term for “oil-lubricated compressors,” lubricated models use oil to maintain the integrity of the cylinders, piston, and piston rings. The upside to this design is that it usually requires little maintenance aside from having to periodically service the filtration system.
• Non-lubricated – Using Teflon piston rings in place of oil, this variety requires no lubrication and is often lighter in weight due to the use of aluminum components in place of cast iron. Similar to the service requirements for lubricated models, the Teflon rings have to be continuously replaced.

Positive displacement aids in the dispersal of heat, often leveraging water-encased cylinders to avoid buildup. Reciprocating compressors also incorporate intercoolers between each stage as well as after-coolers that act as a final filter on heat and moisture before discharging the pressurized air. In terms of capacity, these are the short duty models of the group, capable of a max of 50 hp and 12,000 CFM at 125 psig.

Rotary screw air compressors
The second type of positive displacement compressor, rotary screw air compressors are built with two or more interlocking screws that draw the air into the system. As the outside air is pulled through the system, it’s compressed at increasing degrees and discharged at the desired psi. Similar to the reciprocating variety, rotary screw models are also split into two unique types:

• Flooded – Flooded compressors pair oil with the air being pressurized as it moves through the system and then filters it out before discharge, recycling it back to the sump for continued use. Regular maintenance for this type of compressor includes routine changes for oil, filters, and separator.
• Oil-free – This type is exactly similar to its flooded counterpart with one major exception: oil is replaced with non-contacting carbon ring seals that eliminate the possibility of oil entering the air stream within the compression compartment. The one disadvantage to this type is that it tends to suffer from excessive heat build-up as it does not have the capability of inlet throttling, a feature that often makes the flooded version preferred.

Rotary screw air compressors have a far greater capacity than reciprocating models, offering anywhere from 7.5 to 100 hp with displacements of up to 2,500 CFM at 125 psig.

Centrifugal air compressors
The odd one out, centrifugal compressors are the largest of the three and powered by electric motors or steam turbines to produce outputs up to 500 hp and 15,000 CFM at 125 psig. Used primarily within large industrial manufacturing processes, this massive amount of pressure is generated through staged compressions, often requiring 2 to 5 stages.

Unlike the positive displacement type, centrifugal models contain at least two impeller assemblies that rotate to compress incoming air. This rotation causes velocity, creating energy that’s used to pressurize the air. The upside to this design is that its capacity is highly customizable, easily regulated by adjusting air inlet or outlet as well as the speed of velocity.

Centrifugal compressors are substantially more costly than the other two models. And the upfront cost is only the beginning. They require constant maintenance and often need costly repairs on individual parts resulting from high velocities and continuous use practices.

Other options
While all air compressors are represented by one of the three types mentioned above, they are also available in different designs to suit needs related to portability, size, and weight. Among the most common designs are:

• Portable – Designed for easy transport from one job to the next, portable air compressors are lightweight and often come mounted on carriages containing 2 to 4 wheels. The obvious advantage is the ability to take it anywhere, powering air tools in an endless range of work environments without needing extra long air hoses to stretch from a stationary location or truck mounted compressor. This type usually falls within the reciprocating family and therefore produces less power overall when compared to larger models.
• Stationary – Designed for long-term projects, stationary air compressors provide substantially more CFMs than their portable cousins. They also require special installation considerations that often include extra hosing drilled through walls and mounted above work areas. Higher end rotary screw compressors are commonly among this variety.
• Truck mounted – Truck mounted compressors are similar to stationary models except they can easily be taken from one jobsite to another without disassembly and reassembly. Plus, larger models are capable of powering multiple air tools at once. Somewhat more environmentally-friendly, electric options are common among mounted compressors, enabling you to save on the cost of fuel during continuous use. But, like a stationary model, you’ll have to run hoses from the truck to the work area and account for a loss of air pressure that can range between .7 to 25 CFM depending on the length of the run.
• Towable – Often found on construction jobsites or within forestry applications, towable air compressors are mounted atop trailers featuring heavy duty steel chassis and fully galvanized canopies. Often featuring a simple connection like a lifting eye hitch, they can be hitched onto any large work vehicle and provide outputs from 14 to 327 hp and 50 to 1,200 CFM (at 125 psig).

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Specs

There are a few key areas that can be used to compare both the value and usability of an air compressor. So when comparing different models, here’s what you should be on the lookout for.

Stages
The term “stages” is used to describe the cylinders in an air compressor. You have two options: single stage and multistage.

Single stage compressors are built with only one cylinder that compresses the air, often capping out around 120 psi. This is usually adequate for home use or smaller shops that only power one tool at a time. If you’re looking for portability (and an air compressor that can easily be carted and lifted), single stage is the way to go.

Multistage compressors are designed for multiple pneumatic air tools and those that require more than 120 psi. With more than one cylinder, the air is first compressed in the initial cylinder and then compressed in each successive cylinder to achieve higher levels of power. Due to the additional mechanical processes involved, multistage compressors generate more heat and require a cooling component, often in the form of a radiator.

Power
This may be decided for you if you plan on using the compressor in an enclosed area – which immediately disqualifies gas and diesel-powered compressors due to the exhaust they produce. Output also often determines the power source, with diesel engines capable of greater horsepower than electric models.

In general, you’ll have a choice between these three options:

1. Gas – Often portable, gas-powered compressors are a strong alternative in rural areas and jobsites that aren’t connected to the power grid. Unfortunately, they can weigh in excess of 200 pounds in some cases. You’ll find two different types: those with an electric generator that powers a cylinder and those that power the cylinder directly. The downside to this setup is they tend to generate more noise than other models and also require the storage and transport of additional fuel. But if you need a multi-stage compressor, this will probably be one of your only options.
2. Diesel – Diesel models usually provide the highest levels of output, commonly ranging from 185 to 1,600 CFM – far and above that of gasoline or electric compressors. This is why diesel is often the power source behind truck mounted and towable models, enabling them to provide higher torque and greater capacity for a wide range of air tools connected simultaneously. Similar to their smaller gasoline counterparts, you are required to keep extra fuel on hand. But diesel models are often engineered with smaller tanks that allow them to be mounted efficiently on a variety of work vehicles.
3. Electric – Reportedly one of the most common types of air compressor, as they’re typically lighter and more compact, electric models are environmentally friendly and can be used safely in enclosed spaces. Most are powered simply by plugging them into a standard wall socket, though larger models that produce higher CFMs may require access to higher voltage. It’s worth noting that this type of compressor requires longer air hoses as some experts discourage the use of extension cords with air compressors.

Purchasing tip: Make a list of every air tool that will require power simultaneously and plan ahead. Under-buying will quickly burn out your compressor, regardless of its power source. And over-buying can be just as bad. You’ll be paying unnecessarily for surplus gas, diesel, or electricity.

CFM, PSI, and horsepower
CFM or cubic-foot-per-minute is the measurement of delivery with respect to inlet. In short, it gauges flow, not volume. PSI or pounds-per-square-inch is the pressure that results from one pound-force directed at an area of one square inch. This results in a measurement of resistance to flow.

Mathematics aside, when evaluating air compressors you’ll need to be aware of both the CFM and PSI – but one more than the other. Many air tools operate at 90 psi, with compressors providing anywhere from 75 to 175 psi as a result.

CFM is more important. In fact, some experts cite it as one of the most important purchase considerations when buying an air compressor. If you plan on powering more than one tool or pneumatic device off of a single compressor, you’ll have to add up the CFMs for each to ensure you have enough output to power them all. You’ll also want to consider exceeding the total by anywhere from 25% to 40% to allow for a buffer and prevent overworking the compressor. CFM requirements are usually listed on the packaging and can also be found on the manufacturer’s website.

Finally, horsepower. According to a leading air compressor manufacturer, horsepower is important… but not nearly as important as CFM when comparing different compressors. Larger air compressors often boast higher horsepower and lower CFMs. Unfortunately, these models tend to run hotter and give out sooner than others. So when purchasing a new or used air compressor, pay attention to the CFM rating first and all else second.

As a general reference, here are some popular tools and their average CFM requirements:

[table]Pneumatic Air Tool, CFM @ 90 PSI, Pneumatic Air Tool, CFM @ 90 PSI
Angle Disc Grinder (7"), 6 CFM, Grease/Caulking Gun, 4 CFM
Air Drill (1/2" or 3/8"), 4 CFM, Hydraulic Riveter, 4 CFM
Brad Nailer, .3 CFM, Impact Wrench (1/2" or 3/4"), 2.5 - 7 CFM
Chisel/Air Hammer, 3 - 11 CFM, Nailer, 1 CFM
Drill, 3 - 6 CFM, Ratchet (1/4" or 3/8"), 3 - 6 CFM
Dual Sander, 6 - 11 CFM, Spray Gun, 6 - 18 CFM[/table]Back to top

Choosing a quality seller

As mentioned briefly in the introduction, a professional seller is an enormous benefit when it comes to the selection process and post-sale support. Specializing in the specific brand and application you’re interested in, a professional air compressor seller provides additional resources and information that can include the following.

Safety resources and laws
Though compliance isn’t mandatory for air compressor operators, OSHA published a checklist of safety suggestions for air compressors. Largely addressing issues related to service and maintenance, a qualified seller can address each of these concerns and will often build them into a service level agreement that routinely inspects each component for wear.

Warranties and service level agreements
Many quality air compressors are backed by a full warranty. But the specifics of those warranties often vary from company to company. Others offer a selection of warranties that cover popular parts for a set term: 3-year, 5-year, 7-year, and 10-year are common examples. Items covered typically address issues related to:

• Airends
• Variable speed drives
• Drive motors
• Rings
• Gaskets
• Suction/discharge valves
• Air/fluid receivers
• Drive couplers
• Coolers

Service level agreements (also known as “SLAs”) are above and beyond the warranty. They outline a routine service plan designed around preventative maintenance. Offered for an annual fee (or sometimes on a monthly basis), common items included in this type of post-sale support include:

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• Oil levels
• Belt tension
• Coolers
• Electrical connections
• Air filters
• Valves
• Traps

Strength of manufacturer
Most air compressors are produced by companies with long-established histories – Ingersoll Rand, Campbell Hausfeld, Hitachi, Husky, Maxair, Sullair, and Kaeser to name just a few. These brands have extensive dealer networks through the United States and around the world.

Nevertheless, check into the dealer in your local area. Is it a new business or have they been around for awhile? A seller that's been offering the same air compressors for 10 or 15 years obviously knows what they’re doing and has an established track record of quality service. This also indicates they will more than likely be around for the foreseeable future to provide the support necessary for your compressor.

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Questions to ask
Whether you’re buying a new or used air compressor, here are a few questions to ask the seller to ensure you get the right machine for your intended use:

• How long have you been in business?
• What industries do you specialize in? And how many air compressors have you sold like the one I’m interested in?
• With my application in mind, what are some of the common problems other buyers have encountered with this compressor? What was the solution?
• What type of warranty covers this air compressor?
• What are your service hours? And how quick is your average response time?

Free purchase comparison
Tracking down qualified sellers isn’t easy – unless you have us on your side! Take a moment to fill out the quote request form you’ll find here and we’ll connect you with a variety of established air compressor sellers in your local area – for free!
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Chapter 4: Questions to Ask Before Buying an Air Compressor

When buying an air compressor, it’s best to get all the details rather than picking something that seems right. Once you understand the specifications of different air models, it can still be challenging to know what type of air compressor you should buy. Asking yourself some questions can help you narrow down what to look for in an air compressor.

Rather than risking getting the wrong air compressor, asking the right questions can help save you time and ensure that you pick the best air compressor for your use from the start.

What to Consider When Buying an Air Compressor

Here are some general questions to ask yourself before looking for and purchasing an air compressor, which will cover everything you need.

Where Will You Use It?

You first need to determine where you will be using your new air compressor. For example, you may want to use your air compressor across your work site rather than in a single location. In this case, you’ll want to look at portable models, many of which come with wheels so you can easily roll the compressor from one location to the next.

Remember that a portable option will likely have less power than a stationary option. If you need a high power level but still something portable, you could consider using longer hoses on a stationary model to reach different locations, so long as the distance between uses isn’t too large. This approach allows you to reach the necessary CFM without risking a quick burnout with a portable model or using too much electricity.

If you plan on using the air compressor indoors, ventilation is a primary concern. Small, enclosed spaces like closets can impede operation and generate significant heat. most compressors are air-cooled, so ensure the heat emissions don’t recirculate to where the cooling air should be. Placing a compressor too close to the wall can also create excessive heat — aim to put it at least 3 feet away.

Also, think about where you plan on storing it. If it’s outdoors, you’ll need to protect it from rain, heat, sunlight and other elements. Many compressors are manufactured accordingly for this purpose.

What Will You Use It For?

The pharmaceutical and food processing industries have stricter application requirements than other sectors, and if this applies to your company, consider an oil-free air compressor to minimize the risk of oil contaminating the air. When you use compressed air to remove shells from nuts or mix up dry products, the air directly contacts the food, meaning it must be free of particulate contaminants and have a low dew point to prevent microbial growth.

Identifying proper application use will help you determine things like the required duty cycle, the compressor design, power requirements and the necessary air quality level.

How Often Will You Use It?

Frequency of use is a major consideration. The demands on a compressor working six to seven hours a day, five days a week, are much different than the demands on a machine that’s only used occasionally. Estimate how often you’ll run the compressor and how frequently you’ll turn it on and off. Intermittent power requires different demands than continuous use.

Knowing your usage can help you calculate the necessary duty cycle, which determines how long a compressor can run at a time. If it has an 80% duty cycle, it shouldn’t run for more than eight minutes for every 10-minute period. Industrial compressors can have a duty cycle of up to 100% for continuous operation, while hobby compressors may have around 50%.

A higher duty cycle can offer better efficiency over higher-horsepower models, depending on the application.

What Type of Power Do You Need?

Some air compressor models require electricity to run, meaning you’ll need access to an outlet and a dependable electrical supply. Knowing whether or not you have electricity on site will help you determine if you can go with an electric model or if you’ll need gas. Using a gas generator is generally not recommended if you can avoid it, as the fluctuations with generators can cause damage to your air compressor, impacting its life span. It can also affect your warranty from some manufacturers.

Extension cords also tend to be an unreliable fix for air compressors since the power supply from these cords often can’t deliver the appropriate amount of power to your unit. Rather than trying to use extension cords, you can use long hoses instead, which will help you reach areas further away while still using electricity. Your owner’s manual can also help you determine what types of power cords you can use and how to extend your reach for use. A gas compressor might be a better choice if electrical power isn’t handy.

Additionally, check your voltage and electricity connections or have an experienced electrician review your space before buying a compressor. In a residential setting, you may only have enough voltage to power small single-stage machines.

Industrial environments offer more power, but you’ll still need to know your capabilities and ensure your machine can match them. Horsepower indicates how much power a machine needs, but cubic feet per minute (CFM) and pounds per square inch (PSI) may be more useful for your calculations.

What Tools Do You Want to Use With It?

The types of tools you want to use will come with different requirements. Knowing what tools you want to use beforehand can help you determine what type of air compressor meets your required specifications.

Your tools will be rated in CFM, which tells you how much air each will use. Find the average CFM rating on each to help you better understand what you’re looking for and what compressor will give you the power you need. For multiple tools, you’ll need to add the ratings.

Also, consider that some air compressor designs work better for different tasks than others. Tools that you use continuously, like sanders and grinders, can benefit more from a compressor offering a constant flow, like a rotary screw model.

Determining Specifications

Once you know what tools you want to use with your air compressor, you can determine what specifications you’ll need to look for during your search. Failing to meet these specifications when buying a compressor could mean that your tools won’t work as efficiently, impacting your ability to complete tasks. Consider these specifications when choosing an air compressor.

What Is the Maximum Operating Pressure You’ll Require?

Knowing your maximum operating PSI will help you choose the right air compressor since you’ll want the same PSI rating for your machine. You’ll also be able to determine if you need a single-stage or two-stage compressor. Two-stage compressors have an additional compression step, which increases the PSI. The higher your required PSI, the more likely you’ll need a two-stage compressor.

You can determine your required PSI by looking at the manufacturer specifications of your tools. Choose the highest PSI to decide which air compressor you should select. For example, if you have multiple tools and the highest PSI rating is 90, you’ll want to pick an air compressor with a PSI rating of at least 90. You should also consider if your tools will be running concurrently.

Remember that pressure losses can occur in your air lines and piping, especially with devices like air dryers and filters, so factor those into your calculations.

How Much Airflow Do You Need?

Manufacturer specifications will tell you how much air each of your tools requires, usually in CFM or SCFM (standard cubic feet per minute). SCFM accounts for different environmental factors that can change an air tool’s performance. Some machines will also offer an average CFM (ACFM), based on a 25% duty cycle.

If you plan on running your air compressor regularly and want to find the continuous rating, you should multiply your ACFM by four. This number will help prevent you from underestimating how much air power you need to do the job. Do this calculation with your highest-rated tool to ensure your air compressor will continue to perform during the most demanding uses. We typically recommend a machine that offers CFMs about 30%-50% higher than the requirements from your highest-rated tool.

You’ll also want to consider whether or not you’ll be using one or more airlines for your tools at a time. If you plan on using two or more lines, add together the minimum CFM rating of all the tools you’ll use at once to be sure you’ll have enough air power. This compounding can significantly increase the demand placed on your compressor.

For example, if you plan to run two lines and one of your tools has a CFM rating of 7 and the other of 6, you should look for a compressor with a CFM rating of at least 16. Also, consider buying a machine with extra CFM capability if you’ll be expanding in the future or want more flexibility for heavy use times.

What Size and Type of Air Tank Will You Need?

Most manufacturers measure their tank sizes in gallons, and your tank size will affect your ability to use particular tools. For example, continuous-use tools such as sanders and grinders will need larger tanks than intermittent-use tools like staplers and nail guns since they rely on an ample supply of pressurized air. It’s not as easy to determine what tank size you need to find the CFM. Instead, the best thing to do is go with the biggest tank you can reasonably afford and house.

Bigger tanks are often better due to less motor strain and condensation. For a tank to have compressed air, a motor kicks on and fills it up. The more the motor must turn on and off to fill the tank, the faster it burns out, shortening your compressor’s life. A larger tank reduces motor strain by minimizing the number of starts needed to keep the tank full.

Regarding condensation, air must be cooled after it’s compressed, as it’s hot and holds onto moisture. A smaller air tank increases the likelihood of using the air before it can cool. When warm air goes through the air lines, it can cause condensation buildup, which may damage the tools and compressor itself. A large tank and additional devices like aftercoolers can reduce these issues — aftercoolers cool the air before it flows through the line.

Finally, using a vertical or horizontal air tank is generally based on personal preference and the compressor’s location.

What Horsepower Is Needed for the Motor of Your Air Compressor?

The horsepower rating helps you determine the motor or engine’s power. While it’s not directly related to tools, horsepower does help you determine how efficiently the air compressor can deliver the air. Higher horsepower means that your tank will fill more quickly and efficiently, which can save you time and help you complete jobs sooner.

Once you’ve answered these questions, you can move ahead with your purchase. You can always ask more specific questions, such as what air compressors are commonly used in your industry, but the questions above will help you find the right option for your needs.

Quincy Compressor will help you find an air compressor that meets all your required specifications. We work with numerous industries, and our years of experience give us the knowledge and expertise to help you choose the right air compressor. If you’re looking for a high-quality, reliable air compressor, find a Quincy Compressor location near you or contact us today!

What Features Do You Want to Use?

Many facilities use additional equipment or opt for additional compressor features to meet specific needs.

• Air dryers: Several types of air dryers remove moisture in air lines and reduce the air’s dew point. Many applications and sanitary work processes benefit from this machine.
• Filters: The right filter system will remove moisture and particles from the air and ensure a clean product. Oil and water separators also keep your lines clear.
• Belt drives or direct drives: Rotary screw air compressors offer belt-driven or direct-driven options. In a direct drive model, the motor connects to the compressor’s crankshaft. It works at lower temperatures with high efficiencies but can be more costly, challenging to maintain and noisy. Belt-drive compressors connect the motor and pump with a belt and pulleys, and you can adjust airflow and pressure more easily. While they may not work well in extreme temperatures or harsh environments, they are less expensive and easier to maintain.
• Cast-iron components: Cast iron crankcases, flywheels, valve seats and crankshafts can increase your compressor’s durability.
• ASME parts: Components that meet the standards and codes of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers offer better performance and safety features.
• Low-oil protection: This feature lets a compressor shut down if oil levels get too low, preventing downtime and expensive repairs from the effects of low fluid levels.
• Ball-valve tank drains: With this feature, you can drain the tank frequently and easily to remove moisture.

Some of these options are game-changers, so speak with a Quincy Compressor expert to find the best features for your compressor.

What System Controls Do You Need?

System controls can modify various factors in a compressor, like speed and discharge pressure. They include:

• Start/stop: The simplest of controls, the start/stop controls turn the motor on or off depending on the discharge pressure. They work with reciprocating piston or rotary screw compressors.
• Load/unload: Also called constant speed control, this scheme keeps the motor running and unloads the compressor when it reaches a specific discharge pressure level.
• Modulating: This control throttles the compressor output to reach flow requirements. It closes the inlet valve and isn’t as effective on displacement compressors. It’s better for centrifugal and rotary screw compressors.
• Multi-step controls: Partially loaded states allow you to control output pressure without starting and stopping or loading and unloading the compressor. A three-step compressor has options at 0%, 50% and 100%, while a five-step compressor has controls at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%.

If you’re wondering about the differences between these compressor types, explore our guide to how air compressors work.

Choosing the Right Air Compressor With Quincy Compressor

Ensuring you choose the suitable air compressor is essential since the device will help streamline many processes and keep your home or business in the best condition. When selecting an air compressor, you must first determine what power source you’ll use or what you have available. For example, you may conduct much of your work inside, meaning you won’t be able to use a gas-powered air compressor since the fumes can be hazardous to workers. If you choose an electric-powered compressor, you’ll want to make sure you have access to an outlet nearby.

Once you know your power source, you can start looking at specifications. For example, you might want an air compressor with a higher horsepower to generate more air pressure. You may also look at tank size to ensure you have enough space to accommodate all the pressurized air you need for your processes. Figuring out the specs will help you narrow down your options and choose from the different types of air compressors.

Some types are more suited to different industries and uses than others. Rotary screw compressors are often used in industrial settings since they provide high-powered air with extreme precision. If you’re a homeowner, you’ll likely want to choose a smaller, more portable unit better suited to your needs, whether it’s inflating different items or pressure washing your home.

Quincy Compressor can help you find the right air compressor to meet your requirements. Our experts have the knowledge and expertise to help you choose the right compressor, whether you’re a large manufacturer or a small-scale business in your local area. We serve many industries, including agriculture, amusement parks, manufacturing, plumbing and woodworking! Since , we’ve provided solutions for businesses around the world. Our extensive line of products means you’ll find everything you’re looking for, and one of our experts can help you find the right fit for your business.

Our products are high-quality and can meet even the most demanding application needs. We protect our compressors under industry-leading warranties, which cover your compressor as long as you perform regular maintenance while using Quincy parts and fluids. We also offer extended warranty plans for reciprocating and rotary screw products. Quincy Compressor also provides reliable service 24 hours a day to ensure your air compressor continues to serve you for as long as possible.

Contact Quincy Today

Once you’ve answered the questions above, you can move ahead with your purchase. You can always ask more specific questions, such as what air compressors are commonly used in your industry, but the questions above will help you find the right option for your needs.

Quincy Compressor will help you find an air compressor that meets all your required specifications. We work with numerous industries, and our years of experience give us the knowledge and expertise to help you choose the right air compressor. With Quincy Compressor, you can rest assured that you’ll continue to see the value in your purchase for years to come.

If you’re looking for a high-quality, reliable air compressor, find a Quincy Compressor location near you or contact us today!

Last Updated on August 28, at 12:50 PM

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