Oil-free compressors used in garages, medical facilities, construction sites and industrial facilities around the world power tools, machinery and inflate tires, toys and boats. Oil-free air compressors used for small shop use tend to be lighter and more mobile, but are noisier than an oil-filled compressor. Industrial oil-free compressors range from one horsepower to over 600 and are capable of powering entire manufacturing lines with a single unit.

Reciprocating, rotary screw and rotary centrifugal are the three primary types of oil-free compressors on the market and each has its place in business applications. When your business relies on compressors, you want the best oil-free compressor for the job at the best price. When it's time to purchase a new oil-free compressor, consider the following:

1. Choose a reciprocating compressor for on-site, mobile oil-free compression applications.

2. Look to rotary screw oil-free compressors for large industrial applications.

3. Fit your constant pressure requirements with a centrifugal oil-free compressor.

4. Get more compressor for the money with used oil-free compressors.

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

Choose reciprocating oil-free compressors in portable tool driving situations

Reciprocating oil-free air compressors come in single and two stage units. Single stage oil-free compressing is normally limited from 70 to 100 psi while two stage compressors can go as high as 250 psi. Reciprocating oil-free compressors excel for portable and short burst applications.

I recommend: CURTIS-TOLEDO is an oil-free compressor manufacturer with a full line of reciprocating units. Cal Supply Company sells mobile and mounted oil-free compressors for small and medium applications.

Use rotary screw oil-free compressors for long line, high-pressure environments

Rotary screw oil-free compressors use multiple rotating screws and are externally cooled, which eliminates the need for lubrication. An oil-free screw compressor is capable of industrial pressure levels while providing a true oil free air for medical, painting and large facility applications.

I recommend: Get more information about oil-free compressors and pricing from Fluid Energy. Cascade Machinery & Electric is an oil-free compressor dealer that can match your business with the right oil-free compression unit.

Add centrifugal oil-free compressors to your operation when steady, consistent pressure is required

Centrifugal oil-free compressors get their power from rotating impellers that transfer energy to air flow. These units work well for high pressure and storage applications because they run continuously to recharge tanks and air feed lines. Centrifugal units are true oil-free designs with the lubricated motor separated by shaft seals and atmospheric vents.

I recommend: JPL Air Compressor Service is an oil-free compressor dealers company with sales and support to keep your business compressor running smoothly. With compressors for every industrial application, look to Hope Air Systems.

Purchase used and refurbished oil-free compressors and save on cost

Oil-free compressor manufacturers build their units for long life, which makes a used or refurbished oil-free compressor a safe, and money saving purchase. Refurbished oil-free compressors are tested and repaired to work as good as or better than new.

I recommend: Capital Machinery Systems stocks used and refurbished compressors for many applications. Process Equipment Market lets you compare used and refurbished compressors so your business finds the right fit.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Oil-free compressor companies design units to fit specific pressure needs and applications. Ensure the compressor your business purchases matches the manufacturers intended use and specifications.