Which Type of Air Compressors is Right for Your Project?

Air compressors are among the most important tools found on construction sites because they can be used to power electric tools. There are numerous types of air compressors, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Based on their internal mechanisms, air compressors are classified as either positive displacement or dynamic displacement. We'll go over what each is best suited for so you can make an informed decision for your project.

Positive Displacement Compressors

Positive displacement compressors include a wide range of air compressors that generate power through air displacement. Air compressors in this category use various internal mechanisms, but the basic principle is the same. A cavity within the machine stores the air brought in from outside and then slowly compresses the cavity to increase air pressure and potential energy.

1. Rotary Screw Compressor

Rotary screw compressors, a common type of displacement compressor, are among the easiest types of air compressors to maintain because they have an internal cooling system and don't require much maintenance. They are usually large, industrial-sized machines that can be lubricated with oil or run without it. Rotary screw air compressors produce energy by turning two internal rotors in opposite directions. The air becomes trapped between the two opposing rotors, causing pressure to build up within the housing. These air compressors are designed for continuous use due to the internal cooling system and range in power from 5 to 350 horsepower.

2. Reciprocating Air Compressor

The reciprocating compressor is another popular type of displacement compressor. These are typically found on smaller construction sites such as garages and home construction projects. The reciprocating compressor, unlike the rotary screw compressor, is not intended for continuous operation. A reciprocating air compressor has more moving parts than a rotary screw compressor, and these parts are lubricated with oil to ensure smooth operation. These air compressors use a piston inside a cylinder to compress and displace the air in order to build pressure. Reciprocating compressors can be single-stage or multi-stage, which influences the pressure ranges they can achieve. When more power is required, a multi-stage compressor is the way to go. While single-stage compressors are adequate for smaller projects like woodworking and metalworking, multi-stage compressors provide the power required for more intensive construction like auto assembly and maintenance. Multi-stage reciprocating compressors with multiple stages can produce up to 30 horsepower.

Dynamic Compressors

Dynamic air compressors produce horsepower by drawing in air through rapidly rotating blades and then restricting the air to create pressure. Within the compressor, the kinetic energy is then stored as static energy.

1. Axial Compressor

Axial air compressors are typically found in high-speed engines on ships or planes rather than in construction projects. They have a high efficiency rate but are much more expensive than other types of air compressors and can produce thousands of horsepower, which is why they are primarily used in aerospace research.

2. Centrifugal Compressor

Centrifugal air compressors use a diffuser to slow and ool the incoming air, allowing potential energy to be stored. Centrifugal compressors can produce a large amount of energy in a small machine due to the multi-phase compression process. They require less maintenance than rotary screw or reciprocating compressors and can produce oil-free air in some cases. Because they can reach 1,000 horsepower, they are typically used for more demanding construction sites such as chemical plants or steel manufacturing centers. At All Air Compressors, we will help you and guide you to choose the right compressed air system for your project. All Air Compressors is your trusted technicians who specialize in compressed air servicing and repair, air piping installation, and line filter installation. Contact us to schedule a consultation and find out about the latest technology emerging in air compressor. source: bigrentz