Today, the choice of air compressors is abundant.
A number of factors determine the answer to this
question, including the operating requirements,
application, and budget.
Ideal for constant-volume applications, rotary screw
compressors are used extensively in applications
above 30 hp and are often limited to a maximum
air pressure of 150 psig. Rotary screw compressors
typically have a higher initial cost than reciprocating
compressors and require costly maintenance programs.
Common advantages include a low noise level, low
vibration, and 100% duty cycle.
Reciprocating (piston) air compressors are widely
considered as ‘work-horse’ compressors. They may
be seen in the corner of the garage, in auto body
and tire shops, woodworking facilities, hospitals,
construction sites, amusement parks, and industrial
facilities. Industrial reciprocating compressors are
able to operate in a severe duty environment, have
lower initial costs, lower maintenance costs, and
are ideal for intermittent duty operation. They
save energy in no-load conditions and operate
efficiently at partial loads, which results in a higher
overall efficiency for many diverse applications. Piston
compressors are more forgiving than rotaries and
normally operate more dependably in less than ideal
conditions.
Historically, it was not possible to provide the
benefits of a reciprocating compressor in a low noise
application. For this reason, rotary screw compressors
have been misapplied in intermittent duty applications,
resulting in frequent downtime, inefficient operation,
problems with condensate, and higher maintenance
costs.
Industrial Reciprocating
- Intermittent duty applications
- Lower initial cost
- Lower maintenance costs
- Easy maintenance
- Typical pressure range up to 175 psig
- Typically 30 hp & below
- Can operate in harsh environment
- Low sound NOW available
