The function of a compressor control system is to regulate the amount of air moving out of the tank. In the past, this control was supplied by an electro-pneumatic valve that cut off airflow when electric current was discontinued. Modern control is provided by a microprocessor and software. Whichever type of control system present they can be placed into one of two categories: fixed speed or variable-speed control...
Finding the perfect air compressor for your specific needs is not alway difficult inspite of the range of choises. With all the variety among quality industrial air compressors, it’s hard to find the right compressor that matches the specifications of your job requirements. Many consumers get overwhelmed with all the options available among air compressors and the variety of platforms and applications for which they are made. As a consumer, it is much better to look to your power tools themselves for your answers.
Before you purchase an industrial air compressor, investigate your tools. You will need to acquire a few measurements. The good news is that any measurement relative to your tool will be indicated for you. You may see a CFM which is a requirement for the cubic feet per minute being delivered to the tool. You may also see an LPM, which is the required power for litres per minutes. These are measurements of the rate of pressure required to run them at their maximum potential.
The pressure rating of an industrial air compressor is also measured in more than one way. Pounds per square inch rating, or PSI, may be an indicator of its power capability. You may also see a BAR rating, an atmospheric measurement tool – depending on the manufacturer.
Your local dealer or any reputable internet tool provider can help you match up the best rate of power for your needs. If you are planning on powering multiple tools simultaneously, you will need to go a step further in your preparation to speak with your air compressor dealer. You will need to add the requirement amounts together for each tool you will plan on using. This way, you will be sure to get something that will allow continuous use for your entire project.
You may be able to get away with just enough air flow per minute to power the tool with the highest pressure requirement. In some cases this helps to eliminate wasted air – which unfortunately is inevitable. What you want to pay special attention to is not operating an industrial air compressor that is too far above your required rate of pressure. This will cause an excess of pressure to build inside the compressor, then leading to premature deterioration.
There are cases when you may use a singe industrial air compressor to power multiple tools. If you have a significant difference among your tools, however, and your need is for multiple projects; it may be best to purchase more than one size. It may be a slightly higher cost now, but the long-term savings on the more expensive one will be worth the investment. There are limited cases where this would be a wise purchase. Your dealer will be able to help you determine the compressor that will best meet your needs.
Also important to know before shopping for an air compressor online or at your local dealer is that they are powered in a variety of ways. Electric powered air compressors are the most popular among non-commercial consumers. Gas powered air compressors are loud and are only suited for a work space with proper ventilation to release the exhaust, which is normally not a problem for industrial production. There is another type of air compressor that uses oil lubrication to run. This is quieter than a purely gas powered air compressor, but it still releases a film of oil that is hazardous to a good paint job and not healthy to breathe.
If you have further questions about the right industrial air compressor for your needs, you may consult the advice of a professional or find multiple resources online to guide you in the right direction.