Tips for Selecting an Industrial Compressor

Industrial compressors are generally sold as self-contained packages that include a drive motor, inlet filter, mechanic and electric controls, and several optional accessories. Once you decide on these factors, is it easy to choose an air compressor? Unfortunately, it is not. To help, here are some tips for selecting an industrial compressor.

1. Application for Compressor
Which compressor to buy depends on your application. For example, non-lubricated reciprocat-ing compressors are useful for gas recovery, containment, and protection from condensation. You should consider the required operational parameters including:

• Duty cycle.
• Compression ratio.
• Compression heat.
• Packaging.
• Lubrication systems.
• Location of compressor.

2. Industrial Compressor Size Matters
Your new compressor’s capacity and operating pressure should also be at the forefront of your decision. We recommend you break this tip down into steps:

• Calculate the amount of cubic feet per minute (CFM) you need in your application. This helps determine the capacity.
• Does any other equipment need to be used with your new compressor? Calculate their CFM in addition. We recommend your new compressor be able to do another 30% of this number to allow for oddities. You can find these numbers in the owner’s manuals, website, or even on the machine itself.
• If possible, use the Standard CFM to determine your new compressor’s capacity rather than the displaced or actual CFM. This is because the SCFM rides the gamut between use in appli-cation and compressors that are rated at different pressures.

3. Features on the Compressor
Most operations seek a compressor that can last for as long as possible. This is where certain features come in that can help pay for themselves. These include items that help the unit run more efficiently for a longer time such as a heat dissipating head, durable cylinder and struc-tural protection, advanced cooling, and wear-resistant materials. Don’t skimp on other items such as the hose, diagnostics, maintenance, and other features that can extend operating life.

Perform a cost-benefit analysis on your top preferred models where you compare initial pur-chase price with maintenance costs plus operating life to get the best possible data for this ma-jor purchase.

You can even check the expected service life of your considered industrial compressor before purchase.

Houston Dynamic Supply Can Give You More Tips for Selecting an Industrial Compressor
We at HDS are experts in selecting, building, and repairing all types of rotating equipment, in-cluding industrial compressors. We can help when you need to select, install, or diagnose a compressor or similar piece of equipment. Additionally, our facility houses a vast inventory of components and parts which allow us to expedite your compressor repairs. And once your com-pressor is operational, be sure to contact HDS for all your industrial compressor replacement parts and repairs.