There are so many types and models of air compressors available, that it’s easy to get confused. And besides the many different models and sizes to choose from, there are extra options like dryers and filters to consider. Today we’re discussing the differences between two common types – rotary screw air compressor vs. piston in GA.
Don’t worry - once you know what to look for, buying the right air compressor is a fairly simple and straightforward process.
To make the right decision, we must know:
First, let’s talk about the basics, which are air pressure and compressor capacity.
The two most popular air compressor types are the reciprocating (piston) air compressor and the rotary screw air compressor. Other types include scroll, turbo and rotary vane compressors, but those are mostly used for specific applications, so today we’re just focusing on the two.
The reciprocating compressor: The reciprocating compressor compresses air with the use of one or more cylinders/pistons. The pistons move up and down inside the cylinders to compress the air.
Reciprocating compressors are relatively small and can be low to very high pressure (7 – 1,000 bar or 100 – 15.000 psi), are low capacity and are designed for intermittent use. They are often found at, or used for:
The rotary screw compressor: The rotary screw compressor compresses air by two screws (rotors) that turn in opposite directions inside the housing. Air gets trapped between the rotors and is compressed. They are low pressure (7 – 15 bar or 100 – 215 psi), high capacity, and are designed for continuous use (24 hours a day).
Rotary screw compressor are large, industrial machines. They start at about 10 HP and go up to more than 1,000 HP.
Rotary Screw Air Compressor Vs. Piston in GA: Which One is Right for Your Application?
Choose a reciprocating compressor when you need a small amount of air and don’t use compressed air continuously. If you do have some big tools that require a lot of air - but you only use them once in a while - it’s better to install a larger compressed air receiver than to buy a bigger reciprocating compressor or even a rotary screw compressor.
If your compressor stands still more than 60% of the time, it’s often better to get a reciprocating compressor. If you need high pressure (above 1,500 psi), a reciprocating compressor is the way to go. Screw compressors only go up to about 150 psi (10 bar) maximum.
If you have a larger workshop where compressed air is used continuously, or if you have a factory with one or more machines that use compressed air, choose a rotary screw compressor. Keep in mind that this type of compressor doesn’t like standing still - it makes them rusty.
Still don’t know which type to choose for your application? We can help! When it comes to deciding between rotary screw air compressor vs. piston air compressor equipment in GA we are experts! Call us today and we’ll be happy to walk you through the purchase process.
P.S. Don’t forget we also offer engineering services, repairs and replacement parts!
Today we’re discussing the workhorse of many industries - the rotary screw air compressor in GA. They can supply compressed air 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, if necessary.
They are perfect for:
If any of the following applies to you, a reciprocating air compressor would be a better choice if you:
It is very important to buy a compressor that can supply you with enough amounts of compressed air, at the right pressure. Unfortunately, many people don’t know exactly what they need and end up buying an air compressor that is too large or too small.
If you buy a rotary screw compressor, it is usually for one of the following reasons.
1. This is your first air compressor. Check the manuals or spec sheets of your pneumatic equipment. It should tell you the pressure at which the equipment operates and the amount of air it needs. The part that needs the highest pressure dictates the required pressure. Add 1.5 bar to the minimum required pressure to account for pressure drop and load-unload differential of your air compressor.
Now, add up the air consumption of all your equipment. This is the capacity of your air compressor. It’s a good idea to buy a bigger air compressor, but not too big. Keep in mind that rotary screw air compressors in GA don’t like standing still.
2. It’s a replacement for an old rotary screw compressor. Check the current pressure and capacity of your old compressor. If it was adequate, buy a new compressor of the same pressure and capacity. Take a moment to decide whether is a good idea to buy a slightly larger compressor, to account for future expansion of your business.
3. You now have a reciprocating compressor, but need more capacity. Check the pressure at which your current compressor is set. Don’t look at the maximum pressure of your current reciprocating compressor, as this is often much higher than the pressure needed to operate your machinery.
If you want to replace the compressor, determine the capacity of your current compressor. Now you know you need a larger compressor than this. How much larger depends on the tools/equipment you added that made your old compressor too small. Also take into account future expansion of your business when determining the right capacity.
4. You already have a rotary screw compressor, but need more capacity. Most of the time, we see people buy the same type or capacity of compressor as the current one. It’s a good idea, as it allows you to easily use the two compressors alongside each other, and use one as the backup for the other. Another idea is to buy a bigger compressor and use the old one only as an emergency backup.
Energy: The Single Biggest Expense
Most people buying an air compressor don’t realize that the purchase of the compressor is just the beginning. Over the lifetime of the compressor, the purchase cost is only 10%; another 15% is maintenance and spare-parts and a whopping 75% is energy cost.
If you have a choice between two otherwise comparable air compressors, always choose the most energy efficient one. In can save you thousands of dollars per year and unfortunately, this often goes unnoticed.
Need help choosing the right rotary screw air compressor in GA for your business? We can help! Call us today and we’ll be happy to walk you through the selection process.
P.S. Don’t forget we also offer engineering services, repairs and replacement parts!
