How to choose the right compressor - 7 key factors

If you're in the market for an air compressor, the decision can be overwhelming due to the multitude of options available. According to various sources gathered from Google, there are seven crucial factors to consider before making your choice, which can help streamline the selection process.

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Compressors are utilized across numerous sectors, presenting a broad spectrum of types, sizes, and brands, which complicates the task of choosing the appropriate one. At Ivys’s compressed air specialties, we assess our clients' air compression requirements by focusing on the following seven essential factors.

1. Compressor Capacity and Size

Choosing the right air compressor for your facility is vital for maintaining efficient production and minimizing energy expenses.

Consider the intended use of your compressor, the number of tools required, and the necessary airflow. Assess the PSI requirements related to the tools and operational processes tailored to your facility.

Conducting air audits offers valuable insights into a plant's compressed air usage. With abundant data available, our compressor solutions experts are at your service to evaluate your specific needs.

2. Duty Cycle & Utilization

The duty cycle indicates how long a compressor is expected to operate at full capacity within an hour. Will your compressor be running continuously or mostly on an occasional basis?

For an optimal life cycle cost, consider these guidelines:

• If usage is less than 4 hours/day, opt for a reciprocating compressor.
• For usage between 4 and 8 hours/day, a belt-driven screw compressor is advisable.
• If usage exceeds 8 hours/day, selecting a direct-driven screw compressor is the best choice.

3. Quality of Air

Industrial compressors frequently use oil for cooling, lubrication, and sealing moving components, potentially contaminating the compressed air.

Your air compressor selection will hinge on your particular application requirements.

In cases where compressed air directly interacts with products, such as processed food or pharmaceuticals, opting for oil-free air is essential.

For sensitive applications, consider compressed air that adheres to class zero standards, ensuring it is devoid of residual oil at all times.

4. Maintenance Requirements

The frequency of consumable replacements will guide how much time you allocate for maintenance.

Is your compressor built for easy access to its components to facilitate quicker servicing?

When comparing different models, there are several features that play a significant role in reducing maintenance times.

Two-stage filtration can considerably extend the life of consumables, resulting in reduced downtime and higher productivity. Additionally, elements such as touchless rotors ensure consistent performance throughout the compressor's lifespan.

5. Energy Efficiency

A considerable portion, over 76%, of a compressor's total life cycle cost (LCC) is derived from energy expenses. Thus, focusing on energy efficiency is critical to lowering operational costs and minimizing utility bills.

Improved energy efficiency also contributes to fewer greenhouse gas emissions, which can help fulfill a facility’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) objectives.

6. Health and Safety

Compliance with health and safety regulations is mandatory, making it essential to understand your facility's requirements and to choose a compressor that fully meets or exceeds these standards. Numerous regulations govern various aspects, including controls, relief valves, and air quality. Our experts have extensive experience in ensuring compliance for clients over the past three decades.

7. Additional Expansion

How soon will your facility's air compression requirements shift? Are you looking at potential production increases shortly? It may be wise to invest in a larger compressor now to accommodate future needs. Financing options should also be evaluated, as leasing and gradual payment options can facilitate your future compressor acquisition.

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Explore our range of compressors from Elgi, or contact us to assist you in selecting the best compressor for your requirements.