What to Consider When Purchasing a Compressor?

In our quest to provide you with invaluable insights into making the right choice when buying a compressor, we have meticulously curated this comprehensive guide. We understand that the decision-making process can be overwhelming, especially when there are so many options available. Fear not, for we are here to simplify the process and help you make an informed choice.

Understanding Your Compressor Needs

Before you embark on your journey to purchase a compressor, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of your specific needs. Compressors come in various types, each tailored for different applications. Here's a breakdown of the key considerations:

1. Determine Your Application

First and foremost, identify the purpose of the compressor. Compressors are commonly used in industries such as automotive, construction, manufacturing, and more. Knowing your specific application will guide you towards the right type of compressor.

2. Assess Your Air Requirements

The volume of compressed air you need is a critical factor. Calculate the cubic feet per minute (CFM) required for your tools or equipment. This information will help you choose a compressor with the appropriate CFM rating to meet your demands.

3. Consider Portability

If you require mobility, opt for a portable compressor. These units are equipped with handles and wheels, making them easy to move around your workspace or job site.

What are you using it for?

Select the correct air compressor type for the application you are using it for, you can read more about the different compressed air applications here.

Piston or screw, oil-free or oil-lubricated, regulated speed or not, the latest drive technology or a proven principle? When it comes to purchasing an air compressor or upgrading an existing compressor station plant, there are many options you can choose. Oil-free compressors for example are used in food packaging where the air is in direct contact with the process it serves & so must be completely pure.

What CFM (or what airflow requirement) do I have?

To power a typical air tool in a factory workshop would take say 4-5CFM so the compressor output would need to correctly match this application at the correct pressure you need the air tool to operate at, say 5 or 8 bar g. The airflow from the compressor also changes depending on the pressure needed, so correct sizing is very important. Many typical air compressor applications run from 3 to around 15 bar. Above this a high pressure piston compressor would be used, say for example refilling scuba diving air tanks, where pressures up to 250 bar (250 times atmospheric pressure) are required.

Do your prep: good planning

Before purchasing an air compressor, a range of figures and facts need to be established for the entire compressed air network. These include the compressed air demand (current and in the foreseeable future), the required compressed air quality and whether the waste heat from the compressor is used for another operational process, like heating the factory. If the compressor is being added to an existing station, then you also need to consider integration into the control technology.

It is generally advisable to measure the compressed air demand over a period of time to determine a requirement profile for which the compressor or compressors can be selected.

Air Audit

Compressed air audits are an effective way to identify your current energy use and to assess your compressed air needs.

In conclusion, purchasing a compressor requires careful consideration of your specific needs and the available options. By understanding your application, assessing your air requirements, and researching different types of compressors, you can make an informed decision. Remember to prioritize features such as tank size, horsepower, duty cycle, and noise level, and don't forget about proper maintenance and safety precautions. Armed with this knowledge, you're well on your way to selecting the perfect compressor for your needs.

NAILI Rotary Vane Compressed Air system are widely used in Transportation application like Electric Bus, Mini Van and Trucks, Refitted Vehicles, City Metro, in Power transmission applications like Mining, Metal smelting, Textile, Pharmaceutical, Petroleum, Chemical, Cement, Food Package, Printing and packaging, and other industries. NAILI Equipment exported to more than thirty countries and regions in Europe, Southeast Asia, South America, Middle East and USA so on!