categories

Frequently Asked Questions about Air Compressors

The air compressor is a piece of equipment designed to increase the pressure of ambient air by means of mechanical processes, to be used in various types of applications.
Air compressors convert different types of energy, such as electricity or combustion, into pneumatic energy.
Due to their versatility, they are useful in industrial environments as well as commercial and domestic activities, such as car painting and tire calibration.

There are different types of compressors, each with specific characteristics. Among the most common are

  • Piston compressor: used in industrial applications requiring low compressed air flow rates.
  • Screw compressor: offers a continuous flow of air, ideal for industrial use. It is also widely used in automotive centers, clinics and laboratories. 
  • Centrifugal compressor: used in industries that need a high air flow.
  • Diaphragm compressor: recommended for low pressure applications. 

Each type of air compressor is designed to meet specific needs, such as cargo handling, automation systems, industrial equipment maintenance, automotive painting, and even medical applications that require clean, controlled air.

Its main function is to supply compressed air for various applications. They are used to power pneumatic tools such as impact wrenches and drills, as well as being essential in processes such as sandblasting, drilling in construction and pouring concrete on building sites.
Air compressors are also commonly used on industrial production lines, to clean pipes and equipment, and in everyday tasks such as inflating car tires, bicycles and even small household chores such as cleaning computers and utensils with compressed air.
The ability to compress air and store it under high pressure is crucial to ensure that there is a continuous and stable source of pneumatic energy, which can be used instantly when needed, without the need to generate compressed air continuously during use.

Psi (pound-force per square inch) is a unit of pressure measurement that indicates the force exerted by compressed air on each square inch of a surface. It is used to evaluate the intensity with which the air is expelled by the compressor.
Understanding the pressure in psi is fundamental to choosing the right air compressor for each task, as higher psi values are needed for more demanding tasks, such as in large industrial operations, while compressors with lower pressures meet the needs of small domestic projects, such as inflating tires or using hand tools.
The psi capacity determines the maximum pressure the compressor can generate, which is crucial for operating specific tools such as impact wrenches, paint guns and pneumatic drills. Understanding the right psi ensures that the equipment can perform more demanding jobs more efficiently and without compromising safety.

Before choosing a compressed air compressor, you need to consider factors such as pressure, flow, power and noise level.
The desired application should be assessed, since for industrial uses the compressor needs to have greater power and pressure, while for domestic applications a smaller, quieter model is more suitable.
Also check the compressor's durability and energy source. Analyzing the psi and PCM (cubic feet per minute) specifications ensures that the equipment you choose performs adequately for your needs.

The main difference between lubricated and oil-free air compressors is that lubricated models use oil to reduce friction between parts, providing greater durability and efficiency in high-demand applications. They are more robust and are recommended for intensive tasks.
On the other hand, oil-free compressors do not use lubricant during the compression process, making them ideal for uses that require air purity, such as in the food industry.
It is important to remember that in any type of compressor, lubricated or oil-free, the presence of oil in the compressed air is inevitable, requiring proper treatment immediately after compression.

The lifespan of this type of equipment varies according to the type and frequency of use.
On average, high-quality compressors can last 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance.
Industrial models, especially screw compressors, tend to have a longer service life due to their robust construction.
Maintaining a maintenance schedule, including changing filters and proper lubrication (for lubricated compressors), helps to extend the life of the equipment and prevent premature failure.

To prevent air compressors from overheating, it is essential to ensure good ventilation in the operating environment. Lack of air circulation can result in the heat generated by the compressor not being dissipated properly, which increases the risk of failure.
Always check the oil level in lubricated models and keep the air filters clean.
Do not exceed the continuous use time recommended by the manufacturer.
Models with integrated cooling systems, such as screw compressors, help to reduce the temperature during prolonged operation.
Keeping the equipment away from heat sources also helps to avoid heating problems.

The operation of an air compressor involves taking in ambient air, which is then compressed in different ways, depending on the type of compressor. In piston compressors, the air is compressed by pistons, while in screw compressors, compression takes place by means of two rotors. Each type of compressor has its own specific method of generating air pressure.

During the compression process, air is stored in a reservoir under high pressure. This compressed air is then kept in the reservoir until it is needed for various applications, such as operating pneumatic tools, refrigeration systems, or industrial processes. Pressure storage ensures that air is immediately available when required.

In piston compressors, for example, pistons move to compress air inside cylinders. 

In screw models, two rotors turn in opposite directions to compress continuously and efficiently.

The main difference between industrial and residential air compressors is in power and capacity.
Industrial models are designed for longer and more demanding operations, with larger tanks and robust cooling systems. Residential models, on the other hand, are smaller, portable and ideal for domestic tasks such as inflating tires or operating light tools.
Another difference is that industrial air compressors tend to cost more due to their improved capacities and longer lifespan.

Taking care of an air compressor requires regular maintenance, such as changing the oil (for lubricated models), changing the filters and checking for worn components.
It is also necessary to drain the air tank regularly to avoid internal corrosion caused by condensation.
Avoiding use in very dusty environments and ensuring that the machine does not operate beyond its recommended capacity are also practices that extend the compressor's useful life and maintain its efficiency.

logoWhite

CONTACT US

R. Fernão Dias, 14 - Cajamar - São Paulo -
Brazil - 07790-560

Phone: +55 11 4448-6900

E-mail: metalplan@metalplan.com.br

Monday to Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 8am to 5pm.

All rights reserved | Privacy policy

Developed by Agência Tipo