What Are Industrial Air Compressors?

Industrial air compressors create stored energy by compressing or reducing the volume of air. When the air is allowed to expand again, it creates enough force to power equipment. Many industries, including manufacturing, food and beverage, mining, energy, and automotive, use compressed air to complete regular tasks. 

Because compressed air has so many applications, it is important to choose the right type of compressor for the job. Options like piston compressors and screw compressors have varying strengths and weaknesses that make them a good fit for different kinds of work. Learn more about compressor types and how to choose the best one for your needs. 

Industrial air compressors are used to power pneumatic tools. For some projects, home air compressors are sufficient. However, these smaller compressors have limitations that make them inefficient for larger industrial projects. Here is how to determine whether you need to invest in an industrial air compressor:

• Time: If you need to use an air compressor for extended or continuous use, choose an industrial air compressor. Home air compressors are not built to run for continuous periods without a break for the equipment to cool down. 
• Power: Industrial air compressors are designed to handle heavy-duty tasks. They have high horsepower and larger storage tanks than home air compressors. If you are working on a high-power job, select an industrial compressor. 

You can also check your tools to determine the right kind of air compressor for your project. Write down the cubic feet per minute (CFM) and pounds per square inch (PSI) requirements. To ensure you have enough power, the CFM for your compressor should be greater than the combined CFM of the tools you will be using at the same time. 

The larger storage tanks in industrial air compressors are best for creating a steady air supply. If you have to let the compressor cool down between cycles, the work can take much longer. A home air compressor is not a good choice unless you plan to work in short bursts. Be sure to also check your power source to confirm it can supply enough electricity for the compressor you need.

There are two types of industrial air compressors — positive displacement compressors and dynamic compressors. Within each group, there are several different kinds of compressors with varying machine parts. Dynamic compressors use a rotating part to compress air, while positive displacement compressors trap air and then reduce its volume.

Dynamic compressors, such as centrifugal and axial compressors, are used in industrial settings to create a very high volume of compressed air. Their high flow rates work well for large industrial operations, while positive displacement compressors, like piston and screw compressors, are perfect for smaller industrial settings.

This type of compressor compresses air using a piston inside a cylinder. They are a good solution for jobs that require intermittent high pressure, such as work done by smaller industrial companies. Piston compressors are energy-efficient and affordable and deliver high-pressure air.

Common uses for piston compressors include: 

• Powering tools like nail guns and paint sprayers
• Running jackhammers
• Inflating tires
• Supporting farm equipment like crop sprayers
• Supplying clean air for food and beverage packaging

If you need compressed air to flow 24/7, piston compressors are not a good choice. They also tend to be noisy and vibrate, which is not helpful if you need a smooth supply of air. However, this kind of compressor is commonly used because it is an affordable way to access intermittent compressed air across many different industries. 

This kind of air compressor works by moving two intermeshing screws. Screw compressors can supply a constant stream of compressed air, making them a good fit for many industrial applications. They are efficient and reliable, and they offer a smoother air supply than piston compressors.

Common uses for screw compressors include: 

• Operating tools in assembly lines
• Packaging food and beverage products
• Powering sandblasters and jackhammers
• Controlling valves in the energy industry
• Painting parts in auto body shops

Screw compressors are more expensive than piston compressors, which can be a disadvantage for some businesses. You can find screw compressors that are oil-injected and oil-free to suit your industry-specific goals.

Many screw compressors have oil inside the compression chamber. It keeps everything lubricated and can help form a seal, enhancing air compression. Oil also plays an important role in cooling down the compressed air. However, having oil inside the air compressor is not ideal for every industrial use. 

If you work in the food and beverage industry or deal with pharmaceutical products, there are many regulations you must observe when it comes to air purity. For these jobs, you need an oil-free air compressor. Oil-free air compressors use timing gears to prevent parts from touching each other while in motion. 

The best air compressor depends on your industry and specific use. Talking to other industry professionals is the best way to determine which compressor will meet your needs, last and fit within your budget. You can also use these guidelines to get started:

• Start with your needs. What tools and equipment do you need to power with compressed air? Calculate their CFM and PSI to know what you need in a compressor. 
• Consider industry requirements. Can you use a compressor with oil, or do industry regulations require an oil-free option? 
• Compare compressor types. Will a piston or screw compressor work best for your needs? Do you need a constant air supply, or are you completing intermittent jobs? 

Another factor to consider is energy efficiency. You need a power supply strong enough to power an air compressor, but if you can choose an energy-efficient model, you can save on costs during its service life.

To determine the best size for your air compressor, calculate how much compressed air you will need to power tools and equipment. In addition to offering enough CFM, your air compressor should meet or exceed the highest PSI requirement. You can also find this information in your tool specifications.

At Chicago Pneumatic, we have been supporting businesses with compressed air solutions for over 120 years. Our team members bring years of experience to the table, and we offer first-class products you can count on.

Do you need an air compressor for the mining industry? Do you work in pharmaceuticals, wine making or the automotive industry? At Chicago Pneumatic, we have experience working with these and other industries, so we are ready to support your needs.

Reach out if you have any questions about the best compressed air equipment to meet your needs. Contact one of our experts today to see what we can do for you.