Choosing the Right Industrial Air Compressor

air-compressor16Compressed air is a great source of power for large equipment in industrial or construction settings. Larger units take in large quantities of air inside the tank, compressing the air down to a high pressure, expelling the air through a pneumatic hose that goes into powering various tools.

Due to the price of an industrial air compressor, it helps to do some research beforehand when it comes to choosing the right unit. There are several keys to keep in mind when choosing the right industrial air compressor, and keeping these things in mind can save you time and money in the long run. Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to choosing an industrial air compressor unit:

  • PSI Amount
  • CFM (Cubic Feet Per Minute)
  • Addition of a dryer
  • Type of Air Filter
  • Gas or electricity

The amount of PSI being used is very important as you want to ensure all of your tools are powered. Adding a dryer is useful in removing condensates, which is a very important part of air compressor maintenance. Keep in mind of the type of air filter that will be used, as well as whether you would like a gas or electricity powered unit. Air filters are another part of maintenance while the type of power being used for a unit is more of a matter of preference.

For all of your air compressor needs Air Center, Inc. should be able to help.  Air Center stocks many air compressor parts and filters for major manufacturers, designs and installs compressed air systems, and employs technicians who are able to service any compressed air equipment.

Types of Reciprocating Air Compressors

air-compressorAlthough it is very important, compressed air is not often recognized as it should be. Air compressors serve many functions and power many different kinds of tools. Reciprocating air compressors are just one type of air compressor. Reciprocating air compressors vary in size and have a horsepower that ranges from 1 to 50 HP. These air compressors work by pressurizing air and reducing its volume, known as positive displacement. Positive displacement occurs by the compressor sucking in successive volumes of air through unidirectional valves and having the air confined within a chamber. When it comes to reciprocating air compressors, there are a number of types available for purchase. Here are the types of reciprocating air compressors:

  • Single stage reciprocating air compressor
  • Two stage reciprocating compresses air in two stages
  • Portable compressors are convenient but rarely have an HP over 3
  • Stationary air compressors are self-explanatory
  • Most air compressors use splash lubrication, where a dipper splashes oil through the internal parts of the pump
  • Pressure lubricated pumps are best for heavy duty cycles and high temperature conditions
  • Oil-less compressors should be used in situations where clean air is an absolute imperative
  • The drive system may be powered by electricity or gas

With the many different types of reciprocating air compressors available, it is best to do your research and find what type of air compressor best suits your needs.

For all of your air compressor needs Air Center, Inc. should be able to help.  Air Center stocks many air compressor parts and filters for major manufacturers, designs and installs compressed air systems, and employs technicians who are able to service any compressed air equipment.

Heavy Duty Industrial Air Compressors: What they are and When They're Needed

air-compressor26Heavy duty industrial air compressors are units that work to turn collected air into stored energy. This energy is used as a power source for pneumatic power tools such as wrenches, drills, saws and hydraulic hammers. These pneumatic power tools can make tasks that are normally long or difficult into jobs that are very quick and simple. Due to their power needs, these industries need the considerable power source that compressed air can provide. Here are some facts about heavy duty industrial air compressors and their benefits:

  • Compressed air is used to fill and expand containers such as bottles into their intended shape
  • Heavy duty air compressors can provide mass quantities of readily available cost effective energy
  • Heavy duty air compressors can also help move along production faster
  • Pneumatic tools, which uses compressed air, can be seen in assembly lines, automobile production and agriculture

Of course, when it comes to selecting a heavy duty industrial air compressor, there are some things that need to be taken into consideration. The first and foremost consideration is the unit’s intended use as well as the pressure and volume that will be required. Only purchase an air compressor if there are spare parts readily available so that maintenance and repairs remain simple.

For all of your air compressor needs Air Center, Inc. should be able to help.  Air Center stocks many air compressor parts and filters for major manufacturers, designs and installs compressed air systems, and employs technicians who are able to service any compressed air equipment.

Finding the Right Air Dryer for Your Air Compressor

air-dryers2Pneumatics is a form of industrial technology which utilizes pressurized gas in order to work. Pneumatic machines and tools rely on air compressors in order to work. Unfortunately, air compressors often content with moisture issues known as condensate, or unwanted water vapor.

However, air dryers can help air compressors remove that unwanted water vapor in order to keep the unit working properly. A properly working unit gets the job done with less maintenance, repair, and replacement costs. Here are some facts about finding the right air dryer for your air compressor:

  • There are three basic types of air dryers
  • The most common type of air dryer uses refrigeration methods to cool down the air supply, condensing water vapor into liquid that can be easily drained
  • Another type of air dryer, known as a desiccant dryer, passes compressed air through a pressure vessel containing an absorbent material such as silica gel, which traps water vapor and keeps it out of the system
  • Membrane type air dryers use a dehumidification membrane, which rids compressed air of water vapor as it is being produced. No maintenance is required aside from changing the cartridge once or twice a year and often designed for continuous 24 hour use

Regardless of the type of air dryer you use, investing in an air dryer can help your air compressor immensely. Take the time to research and find out the best type of air dryer for your unit. Consulting a licensed professional to evaluate and help you find the best air dryer for your air compressor is a wise choice for those who know little about the units they own.

For all of your air compressor needs Air Center, Inc. should be able to help.  Air Center stocks many air compressor parts and filters for major manufacturers, designs and installs compressed air systems, and employs technicians who are able to service any compressed air equipment.

Proper Maintenance for Your Industrial Air Compressor

air-compressor24A large industrial air compressor is a valuable asset to the workplace when running on optimal efficiency. However, in order to make sure that air compressor is running at it’s very best, it needs regularly scheduled maintenance. While routine maintenance might seem cumbersome, doing so can help save the costs of repairs and replacement equipment down the road. Here are some ways you can ensure your industrial air compressor is properly maintained:

  • Check valves and gages
  • Drain moisture traps
  • Release built-up water in the receiver tank
  • Inspect safety guards, valves and hoses for leaks
  • Replace air intake filters on a weekly basis
  • Wipe down compressor and coolers
  • Blow out any dust or debris buildup in the compressor and cooler
  • Check for any air leaks
  • Have the belt tension inspected every month

Having regularly scheduled maintenance is key to maintaining an industrial air compressor. Some of this maintenance needs to be on a weekly basis while others can be monthly or bi-annually. Be sure your maintenance is up to date in order to keep your unit running smoothly.