Understanding
Types of Air Compressors for Your Next Project
Easily labeled as one of the most essential tools on just about any construction site out there, air compressors play the vital role of power sources for various electric tools. Choosing a certain type of air compressor can be quite tricky since there are numerous types of air compressors, each compressor features a unique set of advantages and disadvantages; it’s also crucial to look into air compressor repair Atlanta ga or wherever you live. Below are some of the many kinds of air compressors that you can look into before finalizing your decision.
Positive Displacement Compressors
Basically, these types of compressors are made up of various compressors that produce power through the aid of air displacement. All air compressors that fall under this category have numerous internal mechanisms; when looking at them from a wider perspective, the principles behind these mechanisms are the same. A cavity found inside these air compressors store the suctioned aid from the outside. The air inside gradually compresses the cavity in order to increase the potential energy and air pressure.
Rotary Screw Compressors
Rotary screw compressors are among the most common kind of displacement compressors out there. Apart from that, they are a breeze to take care of and maintain since they already come with their own internal cooling system. Don’t be surprised by the bulkiness since they are usually industrial in size and can work well with or without oil and other lubricants.
These air compressors produce energy through two rotors found inside the machine; they spin in opposite directions. The air that gets trapped in the middle of the motors steadily builds pressure in the compressor’s housing. Thanks to the internal cooling system feature, this air compressor can continuously work without rest and can provide anywhere from five to three hundred fifty horsepower.
Reciprocating Compressors
Counted among the popular kinds of displacement compressors, the reciprocating compressors are usually seen in smaller work areas like humble construction projects and garages. Different from the rotary screw compressor, this kind of compressor was never built for continuous use. One of their main difference is that the reciprocating air compressor contains a lot more moving parts and these parts need to be lubricated for smoother and better movement.
A reciprocating compressor works by having an internal piston-cylinder that displaces and compresses the air in order to slowly build pressure. The compressors come in multi-stage or single variations; the pressure range of the compressor is affected by the variation.
Those who prefer a considerable amount of power for intense construction, auto maintenance, and assembly should opt for the multi-stage compressor. Meanwhile, small jobs and projects like metalwork and woodworking should call for the single-stage compressor. The multi-stage reciprocating processors are able to generate up to thirty horsepower.
Axial Compressors
Rarely used in construction projects, the axial air compressors are usually used in high-speed ships, engines, and planes. Axial compressors are highly efficient but are considerably a lot more expensive compared to other air compressor types. These air compressors can provide thousands of horsepower, the main reason why they are used mainly for aerospace research.