Choosing the right compressor is crucial to the performance, operating costs and reliability of a compressed air system. There are several types of compressors available on the market, each of which will perform well in different operating conditions. In this article, we compare the most popular solutions and make some suggestions, which compressor is best for which application.
Why is choosing the right compressor so important?
Compressed air is one of the most expensive energy utilities in industry. A poorly selected compressor can cause:
- excessive energy consumption,
- frequent downtimes and breakdowns,
- insufficient installation capacity,
- reduced lifetime of terminal equipment.
It is therefore advisable to analyse the nature of the work, air requirements and operating conditions before purchasing.
The screw compressor - the industry standard
Screw compressors compress air by means of two interlocking rotors. They are designed for continuous operation and stable loads.
Where will it work?
- production facilities,
- process lines,
- metal, wood and food industries,
- installations operating 24/7.
Advantages
- high performance and reliability,
- low operating costs in the long term,
- quiet operation,
- adjustable capacity.
Restrictions
- a higher investment cost than, for example, reciprocating compressors,
- the need for a professional service.
Oil-free compressor - pure compressed air
Characteristics
Oil-free compressors work without the use of oil in the compression process, thus delivering air with very high purity.
Where will it work?
- food industry,
- pharmacy and medicine,
- electronics,
- laboratories.
Advantages
- no risk of oil contamination in the air,
- meeting stringent quality standards,
- lower final filtration requirements.
Restrictions
- higher purchase price,
- specific service requirements.
How do you choose a compressor to suit your needs?
When choosing a compressor, it is worth answering some key questions:
- Is compressed air system will it work continuously or periodically?
- What is the actual demand for compressed air?
- Is oil-free air required?
- What are the energy costs and planned lifetime?
A well-chosen compressor is an investment that quickly pays for itself through lower energy costs and reduced system failure rates.