Industrial Air Compressors from CompAir

The Fourth Utility

When we speak of utilities, gas, water, and electricity are the first to come to mind. However, for professionals in the manufacturing industry, compressed air plays a vital part in almost all production processes. It is the backbone of many industrial applications and provides the necessary power to complete a range of jobs that are essential for many businesses.

For this reason, compressed air is considered by many in the industry as the fourth utility.

From the clean water that comes from the tap to the spray paint on your car, compressed air plays a major role in the modern world and is often the hidden source of power behind things that we rely on each day!

As compressed air systems play such an important role in many businesses, it is essential for owners to seek out opportunities to reduce energy and operating costs in relation to their compressed air production. In fact, energy makes up 70% of a compressor system’s total cost!

For this reason, choosing a compressor with the correct power, pressure, and capacity to suit your needs is essential in keeping costs low and reducing your carbon footprint. Read on for professional advice on choosing lubricated or oil-free, specifying a size, and selecting a technology.

Remember that CompAir engineering experts are here to support you in your purchasing decision, so feel free to contact us for advice and guidance!

Compressor Sizing

What size compressor do I need?
The next thing to consider is the size of the compressor. You should consider your individual air requirements and choose a size based on this. Choosing a compressor too small could cause issues when demand is high, resulting in problems with production. However, a compressor too large for your operation could lead to wasted energy and a higher cost of ownership.

It is also important to understand your flow and pressure requirements. You will need to purchase a machine that has enough pressure to achieve the performance you require for your application. You will need to consider the amount of compressed air flow (CFM) you will need at a specific pressure (PSI) in order for the application process to run smoothly. All of these factors will affect the size of the compressor you choose.

What type of compressor do I need?
There are many different types of compressor technology available from reciprocating piston compressors to rotary screw compressors. To choose a compressor technology type, you should again look at your demand. Consider how many hours a year you will require your compressor to operate, if you need a constant or intermittent supply of air, and if there is ever going to be a fluctuation in demand. All of these factors will affect which design of compressor you choose as each compressor has a unique set of features and benefits.

Still unsure? Conduct an air audit
If you are still unsure, you may consider asking a professional to conduct an air audit. This can help you to assess your air output demand and provide you with some insightful ways to improve the overall efficiency of your operation.

CompAir experts will be happy to help you find the ideal solution that matches your plant requirements. We will consider air demand, air quality, pressure, flow rates and any other factors that will affect your decision and provide you with professional tailored advice.

Selecting downstream equipment
A high performing compressed air system is much more than just an efficient compressor. Downstream equipment and accessories form an essential part of your installation, optimising and enhancing your operation.

CompAir offers an extensive line of air treatment accessories such as dryers, filters, condensate drains, nitrogen generators, heat recovery systems, and management systems. Our accessories complete your system and help to upgrade the performance of your installation. 

Tailored solutions for your applications

Industrial air compressors are the work-horse behind many products and processes, some that you may not even realise! From food packaging and processing to coating tablets and spray painting cars, the uses of industrial compressed air are multifarious.

Some of the most common industries and applications where CompAir air compressors are used include:

Automotive
Used for car and engine assembly as well as to power AI robots and create clean finishes with spray paint.

Food, Beverage, and Brewing
Used during the production of brewed products as well as for food packing, processing, and transporting.

Chemical and Petrochemical
Used for handling hazardous materials as well a nitrogen generation and process air for direct contact with the product.

Manufacturing
Used widely within the industrial manufacturing industry for a variety of uses including air-operated tools and equipment, access lifts, and shot blasting, to name a few.

Electronics
Used for cleaning expensive electronic equipment such as PCB boards and also for pick and place machines.

Oil and Gas
Common applications include petroleum refining, petrochemical synthesis, pipeline transportation and gas injection.

Marine and Military
Compressed air provides power for many ship functions in marine applications and is sometimes used for simulators and shooting range targets in the military.

Medical and Dental
A variety of applications require compressed air within the medical and dental industry including respiratory equipment, powering surgical or dental equipment, and sterilization.

Pharmaceutical
The pharmaceutical industry relies on compressed air for packaging and sealing medication, fluid pumps to move liquid products, and air knives which can be used to cut products.

Textiles
Compressed air can be used in the process of making high-quality materials during jet weaving, spinning, texturising, and dyeing.