Features To Look For When Buying An Air Compressor

Here are some important air compressor features you might want to look for during your research phase before making a purchase.

• Is the compressor you are considering a 100% continuous speed operation or an Auto Start/Stop operation - Auto start/stop operation has preset cut in/cut out pressures. The compressor actually stops and turns back on as air is needed. With constant speed operation, the compressor runs 100% of the time and simply adjusts the air output. Dual control compressors offer both auto start/stop and continuos speed operation.
• Does your compressor have V-design cylinders - V-design cylinders usually run cooler that in-line cylinders. Excessive heat is an air compressors worst enemy.
• Is your air compressor Belt-driven or Direct drive? - Belt-driven compressors generally have a longer life, with less vibration and heat transferring from the engine to the pump mechanism.
• Cast iron cylinder or cast iron pump sleeves - Cast iron is typically the standard material for cylinders
• Is the unit fully packaged unit with premounted and prewired magnetic motor start?
• Some compressors are oil-free making them virtually maintenance-free and great for light- to general-duty applications. With these compressors there is no need for periodic oil changes.
• Consider vertical vs. horizontal air compressors - Vertical compressors take up less floor space than horizontal compressors. Typically, vertical compressors are stationary, whereas smaller horizontal compressors are better for portable applications (such as a truck-mounted compressor).
• Does your air compressor have a low-oil shutdown feature? This prevents downtime and costly repairs resulting from low oil levels.
• For safety is the tank ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) certified?