Choosing an Industrial Air Compressor
When choosing an industrial air compressor, you’ll need to consider the environment in which it will be used. While coastal climates pose a threat from water ingress, urban sites, tropical climates, and heavy industrial areas face a higher risk from corrosive fine particles resulting from combustion processes. In such cases, multi-stage, built-in drainage is recommended. Industrial sites with heavy dust and fine particulates should consider low-pressure EPA filtration to prevent the compressor from clogging and corroding. Long-life filters are critical to the availability of a compressor, so look for a model with a long filter life.
FS-Elliott’s air compressors deliver 100% oil-free air
The Polaris Air Compressor Series delivers 100% oil-free engineered air. These compressors are engineered using the latest technologies to ensure high efficiency, economy, and reliability. The PAP compressor, introduced more than 50 years ago, is a classic example of the benefits of this design. It is easy to install and offers optimum performance.
FS-Elliott provides two and three-stage compressors with operating pressures ranging from 3 to 10.5 kg/cm2 or 40 to 150 psi. Each compressor runs between 185kW and 2240kW and is available in various power ratings. In addition, FS-Elliott’s R2000 panel offers enhanced energy efficiency, a user experience, and predictive maintenance advice.
The KNW Series of oil-free air compressors is the most energy-efficient oil-free compressor on the market today. These compressors are renowned for their low-noise, oil-free operation, and long service life. They are also highly reliable, with advanced coaxial rotary gears, one-piece high-rigid casings, horizontally split seals, and low-friction tilting pad bearings.
Reciprocating compressors are more efficient
A critical factor in choosing an air compressor is its application. Your choice depends on your application, the amount of air needed, and surrounding conditions. For example, reciprocating compressors are best for intermittent air applications, such as small manufacturing facilities or construction sites. But if you plan to expand your business in the future, you may want to consider a larger reciprocating compressor that will reduce the amount of heat and wear on the motor.
Reciprocating compressors have low CFM ratings, typically at 3.5 cfm per horsepower. As a result, they’re most efficient when operated in short bursts. In addition, these compressors have a tank that stores compressed air, so you won’t need to reload them constantly. Unfortunately, their low CFM also limits their airflow. Considering these factors, reciprocating compressors are generally less energy-efficient than other types of compressors.
Reciprocating compressors are less expensive than their rotary screw counterparts. You can buy a 5-hp reciprocating compressor for around $2,000-3,000 NZD, whereas a five-hp rotary screw compressor would cost about $7,500 to $8,000 NZD. Reciprocating compressors are only economical up to fifteen horsepower. Consequently, they are not often produced in larger sizes.
Direct drive configurations are more cost-effective
There are a few critical differences between direct drive and belt-driven industrial air compressors. Direct-drive air compressors typically use less energy and require less maintenance. These air compressors also have fewer moving parts. However, they do require periodic oil changes. These air compressors can operate in hot or cold environments, so synthetic oil is recommended. These air compressors can also be used in high-temperature environments.
Direct drive air compressors are cheaper to purchase and operate than belt-driven air compressors. However, the initial cost of these units may be higher than that of belt-driven air compressors. While they may be more expensive than belt-driven units, they are worth it if you use them constantly for industrial applications. However, a belt-driven model will do if you only need your air compressor for occasional and light industrial purposes.
A direct-drive air compressor does not run as smoothly as a belt-driven model. However, it is more efficient and less noisy. The difference in operation can be significant when you consider the amount of noise it makes. Direct drive compressors also require fewer repairs than belt-driven units. You can easily find replacement parts for direct-drive air compressors on the Internet at a reasonable price.
