Choosing the right industrial compressor for your business can be tough. You have to sort through the compressors technologies, sizes, CFM (cubic feet per minute) and PSI (pounds per square inch) requirements, and other specs to determine which air compressor would best fit. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when choosing your industrial compressor:
1. Selecting the Wrong Air Compressor Size
Not every compressor will fit inside the confides that you’ll need. Every brand and every compressor is different. Knowing the exact operating pressure and the maximum compressed air volume flow of your process is key! If you choose a compressor that is oversized, it will lead to huge energy bills, largely caused by the spike in energy produced when the compressor starts up. On the other hand, if an air compressor is too small, the applications won’t be complete due to lack of compressed air supply. So make sure you’ve got your sizing all down.
2. Choosing the Wrong Compressor Technology
We know there are TONS of compressor technologies on the market right now! From rotary screw and reciprocating compressors, to scroll and centrifugal compressors. Choosing which compressor type is best for your specific application can be tough. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making that decision:
- Screw air compressors are a great option for businesses that are looking for a compressor with lower noise levels, and higher energy efficiency levels. They’re also a great option when it comes to longer daily use.
- Reciprocating compressors are great choices for businesses where daily demand and duty cycle requirements are lower and has reduced maintenance needs. They are also ideal for businesses with smaller space.
- Scroll compressors are fit for applications in research and development, universities, breweries, dental offices, and hospitals. These compressors operate quietly and provide 100% oil-free air.
3. Not Thinking About Air Quality Requirements
Different applications require different air quality. Some, like those in the medical or pharmaceutical industry, require 100% oil-free air. Other applications, such as general manufacturing, might not have as tight air quality requirements. If you’re unsure of what your requirements are, our guys at 3C can help you figure that out.
4. Underestimating Compressor Costs
You have to factor in three major things when it comes to an industrial compressor’s lifecycle cost:
- Initial investment
- Lifetime maintenance costs
- Lifetime energy costs
When choosing, keep in mind that up to 80% of the compressor’s lifecycle costs are credited to energy consumption. This means that the energy efficiency of your machine is extremely important when determining how much your compressor will cost to run over its lifetime.
Have Questions?
We understand that choosing the right industrial compressor is a tough choice with a handful of variables. If you still have questions, give 3C Industrial a call today – 361-452-2749. We’re always ready to help!
