Air compressors are versatile tools used across a wide range of industries, from construction sites to wineries. These machines offer a convenient and efficient solution to many tasks. In this article, we delve into:
We also explain all the key considerations you should make, including air quality, energy efficiency, air demand, and more.
An air compressor compresses and pressurises air, releasing it through a pipe for various applications. Available in a range of sizes and types, air compressors are incredibly versatile. The question is — what is the best air compressor?
A piston compressor uses a piston driven by a crankshaft to compress the air using positive displacement. These compressors are capable of high pressures and suitable for intermittent use, though they are also noisy and require frequent maintenance. If you want these benefits without the drawbacks, consider a scroll compressor instead.
Scroll compressors feature two identical spiral-shaped scroll elements. One scroll is fixed in place and the other orbiting inside it, using positive displacement to compress the air in between. Being oil-free, scroll compressors are suitable for a broad range of industries including research labs, hospitals, food and beverage, electronics, and more.
A rotary screw compressor consists of two interlocking rotors in a sealed chamber which turn continuously and let air in through an inlet valve in the chamber. Suction pushes the air between the two rotors and the compressor ejects the air when it reaches a certain pressure. Rotary screw air compressors are some of the more efficient and heavy-duty air compressors, making them ideal for many industrial applications.
Oil-free compressors operate without any lubrication, meaning there is no oil to contaminate the air supply. This ensures the highest quality air, achieving compliance with strict air purity standards (ISO 8573-1 Class 0). These compressors also offer lower maintenance costs, with no need for oil changes, oil separators, or filters.
So how do you choose the right type of air compressor for your needs? This decision comes down to a series of factors, including:
To make your decision easier, our Air Compressor Selector Tool does all the calculations for you. Simply enter your requirements and we’ll show you which air compressor is the most suitable choice. We can also provide tailored advice, just contact us or try to tool by clicking below.
Fixed-speed air compressors produce a consistent air supply at a constant pace. This makes them suitable for applications with steady air demand. We recommend choosing a fixed-speed air compressor if your air demand is constant and you want a lower initial investment with simple operation.
A Variable Speed Drive (VSD) air compressor, automatically adjusts motor speed to match air demand. VSD compressors produce as much compressed air as needed in real-time, making them ideal for fluctuating air demand. We recommend a VSD air compressor if your air demand fluctuates and you want to lower energy costs over time.
For more information on these two types of air compressors, check out our full article explaining whether you fixed-speed or variable-speed air compressor.
In an assembly line, air tools are best powered with a fixed-speed rotary screw compressor. These applications require a steady air supply and a rotary screw compressor will provide reliable, continuous operation.
In medical and pharmaceutical applications, oil-free compressors are the clear choice. These compressors provide clean and dry air, ensuring optimal air quality for hospitals, dental clinics, and laboratories. For example, consider a scroll compressor or an oil-free rotary screw air compressor.
For actuators and robotics, a variable speed with filtration or an oil-free rotary screw compressor is likely the best choice. These compressors provide the stable pressure needed for smooth robotic operation as well as optimised energy use and oil-free air.
Blow moulding requires clean, dry, and high-pressure air so we recommend using an oil-free rotary screw compressor or an oil lubricated rotary screw compressor with filtration. This prevents contamination while still achieving the required air supply.
In the beverage industry, oil-free compressors are ideal for bottle filling, capping, and purging. Oil-free compressors supply food-grade air quality, which can be improved even further with air drying and filtration.
Oil-free compressors are great for blowing dust and debris from machinery, electronics, and work surfaces. With no risk of contamination, these air compressors are ideal for most cleaning applications.
Concrete spraying requires a powerful and high-pressure air supply. A piston compressor or diesel-powered compressor is often the best option, delivering the necessary force.
Rotary screw compressors are perfect for construction sites because they are versatile and energy efficient. These compressors can be used for a range of pneumatic tools, including jackhammers, drills, and impact wrenches.
Offering steady airflow, rotary screw compressors are often used in irrigation systems and farming applications. For intermittent applications, a piston compressor will work well.
In manufacturing plants or factories, fixed-speed rotary screw compressors are often the best choice. These applications typically require continuous, high volumes of air for machinery, tools, and automated systems. A rotary screw compressor offers efficiency, durability, and the ability to handle high-duty cycles.
When sealing packaging, a fixed-speed compressor or variable speed rotary screw compressor will provide a stable air supply. You may also need to consider an oil-free air compressor if the product calls for higher air purity.
Fixed-speed compressors are best suited for powering tools in factories, such as drills, grinders, and sanders. However, variable speed rotary screw compressors are better for intermittent use on tools like a nail gun or water blaster.
When operating a pneumatic conveyer, we recommend an oil lubricated rotary screw air compressor. These compressors provide continuous airflow and ensure optimal air quality.
When operating pneumatic tools in the healthcare or pharmaceutical industry, you must always use an oil-free compressor. These applications require sterile air for health and safety.
Spray painting requires consistent airflow and clean, oil-free air to prevent contamination. The best air compressor spray gun combination is an oil-free Variable-Speed Compressor, or variable speed oil lubricated compressor with 4 stage filtration which can also be adjusted to different spray gun requirements.
When stretch wrapping pallets, a rotary screw compressor ensures optimal operation of your wrapping machine. With reliable supply, these compressors make it easier to wrap your pallets securely, minimising the risk of shifting during transit.
When using a water pump to pressurise or move liquids, a reciprocating compressor is likely the most suitable option. These compressors provide high-pressure bursts of air, ideal for these tasks.
In workshops and automotive garages, a fixed-speed compressor is the best choice for tire inflation, impact wrenches, and painting. These models can handle high workloads, great for busy workshop environments.
For more information and advice on choosing an air compressor, get our free Air Compressor Brochure today. We’ve included our entire range of air compressors and equipment, including the best piping for your system. Click below to get your free copy today!