Are you using the right air compressor and tools in your factory or plant? Air compressors are a must-have tool for manufacturing, making tasks and assembly lines move quickly, easily, and affordably.
In this article, we outline the most common applications for an air compressor in a factory, light manufacturing facility, or packaging plant. We also explain how to choose the right air compressor for your needs, including the best option for various manufacturing scenarios.
Air compressors are used in light manufacturing for a variety of tasks.
Compressed air is critical in running a variety of pneumatic tools to streamline assembly lines and boost efficiency. Tools that use an air compressor include drills, grinders, nail guns, staplers, and sanders.
Compressed air is also used to power automated systems such as conveyor belts, robotic arms, and pneumatic packaging machines.
Air compressors provide a steady flow of air for paint sprayers and coating systems, ensuring a smooth, even finish.
Using compressed air, you can easily remove dust, debris, and moisture from products, work surfaces, and machinery. A popular example of this is using an air compressor vacuum or air blower to clean your workspaces.
Compressed air is commonly used for supporting processes like injection moulding, thermoforming, or air-powered stamping.
Compressed air can be used to cool hot or dry materials during production, helping to maintain product quality.
Choosing the right air compressor for your needs depends on air pressure (PSI), air volume (CFM), tank size, and air purity requirements.
You need to choose an air compressor that can match the end-use tool with the highest PSI rating. If your tools require different pressure levels, use pressure regulators to manage them.
Cubic Feet per Minute, or CFM, is the volume of air your air compressor can supply. To calculate yours, add up the peak air consumption of all your end-use tools, remembering to account for any tools operating simultaneously.
An air receiver tank stores compressed air between the compressor and the end-use tool. This reduces how often the compressor needs to run. Your tank size (in gallons) should be roughly one-quarter to one-third of the CFM output.
In manufacturing and packaging, you may need a high level of air purity (class 0). An oil-free air compressor offers the highest air quality, with no oil to contaminate the air. This means you don’t need as much filtration.
Variable-speed air compressors deliver reliable performance for many light manufacturing applications. With a direct-coupled design, these compressors ensure consistent airflow while dynamically adjusting speed to match demand. This is especially valuable in environments where production equipment operates at varying loads, helping to optimise energy use and reduce wear.
We recommend PneuTech’s RSCR series of direct-drive variable-speed compressors. They’re engineered for efficiency and durability, incorporating advanced technology to meet the demands of modern manufacturing.
Rotary screw air compressors are an excellent choice for light manufacturing, providing a steady airflow and consistent pressure to support multiple machines and tools simultaneously.
For precision applications like paint spraying or product finishing, an oil-free rotary screw compressor will ensure clean, contaminant-free air. Alternatively, you can also incorporate dryers and filtration systems to clean air.
The Vixen Integrated Air Compressors are an excellent choice for manufacturing applications. These compressors feature:
Altogether, these features ensure significant energy savings and reduced maintenance.
Discover the Vixen Integrated Air Compressors >
If you're investing in an industrial air compressor for your manufacturing operation, it’s essential to make an informed decision. In our practical guide, we’ve covered everything you need to know about the different types of air compressors, including how they function, the key differences, and an overview of the full PneuTech range.
To get your free copy of the guide, simply click below.