If you're involved in a business that calls for some heavy-duty compression, such as the petroleum, chemical or natural gas industries, you'll need to bypass the smaller models and head right for the turbo compressors. Turbo compressors offer higher power densities and efficiency required in large, industrial settings.

Also known as pneumatic or centrifugal compressors, turbo compressors can also be used in the food production, heating, venting and air conditioning and automobile industries. No matter what your application, here are some things to consider when buying a turbo compressor:

1. Find the turbo compressor manufacturer offering the machines to meet your specific needs.

2. Search turbo compressor suppliers for the right machine for your business.

3. Save money and shop for used compressors.

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

Select the best compressor to turbo-charge your business

Many of us feel most comofortable with brand names. We feel confident in a product's performance if it's manufactured by a name we recognize. This will likely not be any different when it comes to turbo compressor manufacturers.

I recommend: Siemens is recognized around the world as a leader in the manufacturing of systems used in the energy industry for the past six decades, and they offer a turbo compressor that's high-quality, compact and economic. Cameron manufactures an oil-less turbo compressor that saves power with a low kilowatt-to-flow ratio.

Get the right turbo compressor for you

A turbo air compressor for the automobile business may not give you the turbo engine compression you need for, say, the chemical manufacturing industry. Whatever your needs, be sure to shop around, compare and find exactly what you need to satisfy your particular business needs.

I recommend: Amco Industries offers a low compression turbo and a high compression turbo compressor that deliver efficiency and reliability, featuring easy installation and oil-less operation. Barber-Nichols, a turbomachinery engineering, manufacturing and testing company, offers high-efficiency turbocompressors designed for energy and process companies.

Shop for used turbo compressors and find a bargain

If your budget doesn't accommodate new equipment, consider buying a used turbo compressor. You can find many used compressors in good to great working condition that can meet the needs of your specific business.

I recommend: Machinery & Equipment Company has a large inventory of turbo compressors for many industries, including the food, chemical and energy industries. Machinery Trader lists several portable models of turbo compressors, ranging from 10 to 20 years old and in good working condition.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  A turbo compressor is comprised of many parts. An impeller, for example, spins at high speeds, turning a turbo compressor wheel that works a fan that, in turn, pushes compressed air through an engine. Keep in mind that you may need to replace parts such as gears, wheels and impellers at some point.