Compressors

Operate hand tools anywhere, or run machinery on your factory floor, with air compressors
By W. Aiman Mueller Compressors pressurize air to drive equipment. There is the AC compressor, and there are other kinds that operate things like nail guns and various hand tools, as well as paint sprayers and sandblasters. Industrial compressors operate stamping or punching machines and automation equipment, but can function on an even larger scale.
 

When choosing an air compressor you may select a stationary model or a portable air compressor. Of course, compressors also come in various sizes and use a range of electrical and other power sources. In special cases, you may also want to consider airflow and quality, as well as operating temperature. The operation costs are important as well. For mechanical operations, there are three different types of air compressors:

1. The pistons in a reciprocating air compressor compress air into a storage tank. This type works best for intermittent applications, like nail guns.

2. A rotary screw compressor actually has two screws to compress air. This type is functional for continuous-use applications.

3. A centrifugal air compressor includes a turbine to compress air. Usually, only industrial and heavy duty applications call for this type.

Find quality compressors for sale from sources that carry wide selections

There are many compressor manufacturers, so don't settle for less that the ideal machine. Look for compressor distributors with wide selections.
Try: Sullivan Palatek carries large scale air compressors for industrial applications, and is also a good place to look for a large portable compressor. Air Compressors Direct will help you find air compressors and accessories for all the other applications, including air tools and much, much more.

Look for the air compressor features that match your application

Depending on your application, there are a number of air compressor features that could help you get the kind of performance you need. For instance, various types of filters are available; these are especially helpful for food processing and even some industrial applications. There are also driers that remove condensation, as well as coolers that lower air temperature.
Try: Ingersoll Rand carries a large line of compressor products for a long list of applications and fields. But more than that, they are a solution provider with excellent service. Grainger is another good place to look because you can easily search by category, like single or two stage, or oil lubricated or oil-less. They also categorize components like blowers, motors and gaskets.

Locate replacement compressor parts and accessories

You want to get as much use out of your air compressor as possible, which means having the right parts when it's time for a replacement, or quality accessories to diversify your application possibilities.
Try: Every Air Compressor carries a huge selection of everything you need for your air compressor, including replacement parts that will help you maintain your air compressor and keep it running for a long time. To find parts for a large-scale or industrial air compressor, try Central Air Compressor. They carry parts for a huge list of compressor manufacturers.

• The air flow of a reciprocating air compressor usually does not exceed 100 cubic feet per minute (CFM), but single stage rotary air compressors go up to 1500 CFM, and two stage up to 2500 CFM. There is not as clear a limit on centrifugal air compressors, but they apply in applications that require air flow in excess of 1000 CFM.