Air compressors are essential pieces of equipment found in residential, commercial and industrial environments. And as technology advances, different types and designs have been developed over the years. For instance, portable air compressors are becoming more popular for both DIY enthusiasts and business owners. Fast, reliable and convenient, air compressors get the job done effectively and efficiently. Hence, if you are looking for air compressors for sale, always seek advice from experts. Doing so will help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
Because of its many uses, choosing the right air compressor can be daunting, especially if you are a first-time buyer. Moreover, the different products in the market can make it even harder to decide on the perfect device. This quick guide will help you in choosing the right air compressor for you.
Table of Contents
1. Air Pressure and Air Quality
Depending on how you will use your air compressor, it is important to determine the right PSI. PSI refers to how you measure the air pressure of your device. Having the right PSI will allow you to utilize your device to its highest potential. For instance, if your tool requires 220psi to operate, this means that your compressor must have the air capacity to deliver 220psi. Likewise, if your tool only requires minimal psi, you can also adjust your air compressor to supply a lower pressure. In this case, it is essential to purchase an air compressor that can power the highest-pressure tool or equipment.
On the other hand, you also have to look for an air compressor that can produce clean air. As your compressor operates, it tends to accumulate dust, moisture and oil particles which can easily mix with the air flow. If you don’t have a quality compressor, these particles can contaminate the air. Thus, when choosing your compressor, make sure to look for a brand that includes moisture filters to eliminate air contamination.
2. Electric, Diesel or Petrol Air Compressor
In choosing the air compressor, you have to consider how it will be used. If you are working outdoors where there is no electricity present, a petrol air compressor is recommended. This will allow you to move the air compressor from one work site to another. Petrol compressors are more affordable than diesel compressors. People who are tight on their budget opt for petrol air compressors.
Electric air compressors are used in industries because they are also affordable and require low maintenance. Moreover, electric air compressors are environmentally friendly and provide a quieter operation.
Diesel air compressors are commonly used in high-powered task environments. If you are running a business that requires you to compress a large amount of air in a short time, then a diesel-powered compressor is for you. Diesel air compressors are effective and reliable in delivering various applications such as manufacturing processes and powering air tools. There are also diesel air compressors that already have a built-in power generator. This feature is highly advantageous if you are running electricity from time to time.
3. Tank Size
The tank size of your air compressor is the volume of air that can fit inside the tank. It’s important to choose the right size to accommodate all the tasks intended to accomplish. If you are using tools that only require a short time, you will only need a small tank size. However, if you are using tools for longer periods, you need a bigger tank to sustain the amount of air flow.
4. Air Delivery
Air delivery refers to how fast your air compressor can pump air out. Every tool that you will use with your air compressor has an air consumption requirement, which is measured in litres per minute (CFM). Similar to air pressure, if your tool requires an air consumption of 140 cfm, your compressor’s air delivery must also match up with the requirement.
5. Portable Or Stationary Compressor
Depending on your location and the amount of work to accomplish, you can also choose between portable or stationary compressors. Portable air compressors allow you flexibility anywhere. Stationary compressors are much larger in size and offer more power than portable ones.
In choosing your air compressor, you have to determine its function. To help you, do thorough research on the types of air compressor products available in the market.
