Best industrial air compressors for air tools

Are you looking for a reliable air compressor for your air tools? Finding the best air compressor can be a challenge without the right calculations, especially with so many configurations available. 

In this article, we make your decision easier by explaining how to choose an air compressor and recommending the best air compressor systems for various air tools. We cover a range of sizes, brands, and compressor types to ensure you can find the most suitable option for your tool of choice. 

Industrial air compressors NZ

Below we have outlined the various compressor types we have available including how they work and what air tools they are best suited to. 

Fixed-speed compressors

For applications where air usage is consistent, fixed-speed compressors may be a suitable solution. Our recommendation is the PneuTech RSCR series of direct-drive fixed-speed compressors because they offer unparalleled performance and long-term reliability. 

Suitable applications for fixed-speed compressors: 

• Sandblasting
• Nitrogen generators
• Factories or processing plants with a constant, even air requirement.

Variable-speed compressors

For applications where air usage fluctuates, a variable-speed compressor is a far more efficient solution. Our recommendation is PneuTech’s RSCRV and RSCRPM series of variable-speed drive (VSD) rotary screw compressors. These permanent magnet compressors use far less power than fixed-speed compressors, with energy savings of up to 60%. 

Suitable applications for variable-speed compressors: 

• Panelbeaters
• Mechanical workshops
• Factories or processing plants with a varying air requirement
• Companies looking to upgrade to energy-efficient machines.

EncloseAir compressor enclosure

Suitable for large industrial applications with large air usage and multiple tools operating at once, the EncloseAir compressor enclosure is a self-contained and lockable air shed. Better yet, the enclosure ensures all compressed air equipment is tucked out of sight, should you have limited space. To minimise downtime, we will deliver the EncloseAir to your factory and have it operational within one day. 

Suitable applications for EncloseAir compressor enclosures: 

• Companies in leased premises
• Factories and workshops with limited indoor space
• Environments where minimal noise is a requirement
• Environments where a turnkey, ready-to-go compressed air package is needed.

Oil-free compressors

For applications where air purity is a high priority, an oil-free compressor like those in PneuTech's RSCRD-V series is a great solution. These compressors are renowned for their long-term reliability, superior design, and proven engineering. To give you peace of mind, they also come with a 100% oil-free Class 0 Certification.

Suitable applications for oil-free air compressors: 

• Laser cutting
• Medical facilities
• Food and beverage production or packaging
• Where food is being processed with compressed air.

How to choose the right air compressor

1. What tools will the compressor power? 

Firstly, identify all the air tools that will be powered by the air compressor. It is vital to choose a compressor that is designed specifically for your needs and air consumption. For example, a die grinder will typically use more air than a butterfly impact wrench. 

2. Identify the CFM requirement 

Your Cubic Feet per Minute requirement (CFM) measures how much air is required to power your air tools. This is the most critical consideration when buying an air compressor as it will determine how efficiently your compressor runs, and if it can sustain your air usage. You can find the CFM requirement of your tool in the manual or technical specification.

See our list of common air tools and their typical CFMs below. Please note that this list is an estimation of CFM requirements and you should always check the exact requirement of your tool by consulting its user guide.

To find the minimum requirement of your compressor, multiply the tool’s required CFM by 1.5. This will ensure the compressor can sustain the tool at any given time. If you will be using multiple tools simultaneously, add together the individual CFM of each tool and multiply the total by 1.5. However, note that most DIY air compressors are designed for one tool at a time. 

3. Choosing an air tank size 

Choosing the right air receiver tank will seriously impact the performance of your compressor. To find the minimum tank size you need, multiply your tool’s required CFM by 6. For example, a dual action sander requires a tank capacity of at least 36 litres (6 CFM x 6).

4. Oil-free vs oil lubricated 

Some compressors are lubricated with oil while others are designed to operate without this. Because of this, oil-free compressors produce air with a higher level of purity which is essential for certain applications. On the other hand, an oiled compressor will produce a larger output of air and run more quietly.

If you aren’t sure which type of compressor your application requires, ask our team for advice. You can also browse our full range of oil-free air compressors and oil-lubricated air compressors on our website. 

Why choose Industrial Air Systems?

Our friendly team is committed to delivering exceptional service and our specialised technicians are available around the clock. In case of emergencies, we are ready to provide prompt repairs or maintenance services to get you back up and running.

Whether you need replacement parts, an upgrade, or a brand-new setup, we are here to make the process as easy as possible so you get the right compressor system, for your air tools. Whatever your requirements, our range has everything you need:

• Integrated air compressors
• Variable-speed compressors
• EncloseAir compressor enclosures
• Fixed-speed compressors
• Oil-free compressors
• Oil-free scroll compressors
• Air receivers
• Air treatment
• Air system accessories

Whether your priority is efficiency, reduced costs, longevity, or 100% air purity, we have the ideal solution. Browse the full range and download our guide to choosing the perfect air compressor.