Air compressors can be a real help to industries that need to generate power in a safe, efficient, low-cost way. They are used in many different industries, from the medical sector to manufacturing, and when they are used to their full potential they can provide significant cost savings and a better way of running a business. Industrial compressors might be used in industries where there is a lot of demand, and power is needed on a regular basis, in high quantities. This might be in a factory setting, during a manufacturing process, or during an industrial process. If the wrong kind of compressor is used in these situations, you simply won’t be getting maximum value from your air compressor.

So how do you know whether you need an industrial air compressor? It largely depends on the kind of industry you operate in, and how much you would be relying on an air compressor. Here are some of the key questions to consider before moving on to thinking about air compressor types:

• How much demand would be placed on the compressor? If you would be using it day in, day out for compressed air, then this counts as high demand. You may also want to consider a model that has a storage option, so that it can work continuously and you can make use of the compressed air as and when you need it. Only certain types of robust air compressor will be able to withstand this type of usage, so it’s an important decision to make.
• Would it be used in a demanding environment? The environment in which you would be using the compressor is very important to consider. If you would be using it in a busy industrial setting, where there are many hazards, then again you need to consider investing in the most robust kind of compressor possible. A small compressor that is designed for use in a workshop simply isn’t going to be suitable. You need a model that is industrial, specifically designed for the pressures of your industry and setting.
• Will it be your only source of power? Some industries use compressed air only to boost their existing systems of energy production. If this is the case for you, then your compressor may not have quite as much demand placed upon it. You still need to consider usage patterns in order to get the most from your compressor, though. Will it be used intermittently, or will it be used regularly, just with less demand? Make sure you choose a model that will operate in the way you need it to.

Specifying your industrial air compressor – what do you need to think about? 

An air compressor is a major investment, especially an industrial compressor, as this will tend to be more expensive and a bigger investment for your business as a whole.

These are some of the common types of compressor you might find in an industrial space:

• Rotary screw compressors
• Industrial piston compressors
• Diesel mobile compressors

When sourcing your compressor, have your list of requirements prepared so that you can effectively weigh up your options.