Before purchasing and air compressor, it is important that your take a fair few factors into account. You need to stop and ask yourself a few questions to establish exactly what type of air compressor your need for your situation. 

Purchasing the wrong air compressor can lead to a range of issues down the road, so it is important to get it right the first time. 

Some Key Questions include : 

Air compressors are measured in CFM which is a measure of cubic feet per minute. To find out how much you need, you need to work out the CFM requirements of your air tools.

If you are only going to be using one tool at a time, you will only need a CFM which is equal to the tool with the highest requirement. If you are using multiple tools, you will need to add the requirements of all the tools that will be used simultaneously together to work out your required CFM. It is always best to add on 20-30% to allow for future purchases of air tools or changes in air tool requirements.

Below I have put together a table to show you a simple way to work out required CFM. Please note: the measurements used for each tool is just an example. Your tools will require a different CFM so it is important to find out how much each of your tools require.

Single Tool Use

Do I need a completely oil-free environment?
First things first. Do you need an oil-free environment?

If your answer is yes, your only option is to purchase an oil-free air compressor.

If your answer is no, the best option is an oil-lubricated air compressor.

Oil-lubricated air compressors generally cost less, are quieter in operation and will last much longer than their oil-free counterparts. This makes them the superior choice for situations that do not require an oil-free environment. Unfortunately, if you do require an oil-free environment (such as food factories due to the chance of contamination), you will need to spend a little bit more to purchase an oil-free air compressor.

Do I need a constant flow of air?
Screw air compressor, although more expensive, provide a constant flow of air. This is great for factories and workshops that require a constant flow throughout the day, 5 days a week. However, screw compressors are not ideal for start stop operation where you only require air for small intervals throughout the week.

Piston air compressors are usually much cheaper than screw air compressors. These machines are great for homeowners, contractors, and people who only require short bursts of compressed air. Due to not being able to provide a constant flow of air, piston compressors aren’t good for sustained use.

More Factors to Consider When Purchasing An Air Compressor:
Longevity
The longevity of screw compressors is far greater than the lifespan of a piston compressor. Although the piston compressor may cost less to purchase, due to high operating temperatures it usually requires more maintenance. Oil-lubricated air compressors also tend to last much longer than their oil-free counterparts. Keep this in mind when considering the longevity of your machine.

Unforeseen Costs – Energy Consumption
When looking at the costs over the product life cycle, it’s important to note that energy consumption is one of the largest costs. Spending your time to find a more energy efficient product could end up saving you a substantial amount of money.

Chat to Cleveland Compressed Air Services today on (08) 9452 3669 or email info@ccair.net.aufor help finding the right machine for you.