Diaphragm compressors are used in many industries to safely pump toxic and explosive gases. Diaphragm compressors are also referred to as membrane compressors because they use a flexible membrane to compress gas. A rod and a crankshaft mechanism drive the membrane. Some applications require a diaphragm pump be used with the compressor. Because of the corrosive nature of some gases, the compressor's materials must be durable and corrosion resistant. Many diaphragm compression companies design their equipment for specific industries.

A wide range of industries use diaphragm compressors, including chemical processing, utility, pharmaceutical, medical, automotive and mining. Compressors range in size from miniature equipment for laboratory use to large industrial compressors for fueling stations. When purchasing diaphragm compressors, consider the following:

1. Order custom diaphragm compressors to ensure you buy the proper equipment for your unique application.

2. Reduce the risk of contamination with oil-free diaphragm compressors.

3. Purchase equipment from diaphragm compressor dealers the sell compressors with static O-rings and gaskets.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Order from custom diaphragm compressor manufacturers

By ordering your diaphragm compressors from a custom manufacturer, you ensure the equipment will function properly for your application. Purchasing a custom diaphragm compressor allows you to choose the compressor's material, pressure and size. The proper material is especially important when working with corrosive gases.

I recommend: PDC Machines is a diaphragm compressor manufacturer that employs a staff with more than 100 years of combined experience in the design, engineering, fabrication, testing, and installation of process equipment. Browse the company's basic diaphragm compressors, and then use the online quote form to specify your requirements. Contact Howden Buffalo to order a custom diaphragm compressor. The company's compressors are ideal for applications that must contain rare, toxic, flammable, corrosive, explosive and radioactive gases.

Implement oil-free diaphragm compressors

Compression equipment that operates without the use of oil has less risk of contaminating the air or gas stream than diaphragm pumps that use a lubricating agent. By eliminating the use of oil, you also eliminate a maintenance requirement for your compression equipment. Oil-free diaphragm pumps and compressors tend to operate quietly.

I recommend: Purchase a portable oil-free diaphragm compressor from Snap-On. The BF180 compressor features internal bleed and quietly runs at 33 psi. Combined Fluid Products offers a variety of diaphragm compression solutions, including oil-free miniature diaphragm compressors. The diaphragm compressor dealer discounts overstocked equipment.

Prevent leaks and contamination within your diaphragm compressor

Leak-free and contamination-free diaphragm compressors use static O-rings and gaskets to prevent harmful elements from coming into contact with the gas system. These compressors keep all lubricants and coolants away from the process gas. Some leak-free and contamination-free compressors utilize a leak detection system that alerts you if the seals or gaskets fail.

I recommend: Find leak-free and contamination-free diaphragm compressors for sale at Fluitron. Compressors are available in a variety of sizes and materials. Pressure Products Industries uses self-energizing static O-rings to prevent leaks and the diaphragm compressors have a highly-sensitive leak detection system.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Diaphragm compressors are designed either for intermittent or continuous use. It's important to order the correct compressor for your application or the equipment could require frequent repairs and maintenance.