Choosing the right air compressor is an important process which needs to take into account many factors to determine which air compressor is best for you. The size and specification of the air compressor will influence and determine the initial investment cost, as well as ongoing running costs, and so time spent at this initial stage to get this right is so important.
Our experienced team will help you select the most appropriate air compressor and will take into account all of the factors below in determining what is right for you.
Airflow requirement (CFM – cubic feet per minute and m3/hr) #
The airflow capacity (CFM) is critical and must match or exceed the air consumption of your tools. A higher CFM is needed for tools that consume more air, or for running multiple tools at once.
Pressure required (PSI – pounds per square inch and bar) #
Ensure the compressor can provide the necessary PSI for your tools. Some equipment may require higher PSI (e.g. impact wrenches and sand blasters).
How will the air be used? #
Understanding the application and whether you need clean air will influence the type of air compressor and supporting equipment you require (for example driers).
Tank size #
A larger tank allows the compressor to store more air, reducing how often the motor needs to run. For heavy-duty, continuous-use applications, a larger tank may be necessary.
Duty cycle #
The duty cycle refers to how long the compressor can run before it needs to cool down. A 50% duty cycle means it can run for 5 minutes out of every 10. Higher-duty cycles are crucial for continuous use.
Portability #
If the compressor needs to be moved between job sites, look for portable designs with wheels or a lightweight, compact model. For stationary applications, weight and size matter less.
Avelair produce both electric stationary air compressors and mobile air compressors.
Noise levels #
For indoor or residential use, low-noise compressors (rated in decibels, dB) may be preferable. Larger compressors tend to be louder, so consider soundproofing if necessary.
Maintenance #
Oil-lubricated compressors tend to last longer but require regular maintenance, whereas oil-free compressors are more convenient for low-maintenance applications, though they may wear out faster and are more expensive.
Brand reputation and warranty #
Always check the reputation of the manufacturer you are buying from. Check what the availability of parts will be in the event of a breakdown. Avelair air compressors are manufactured in the UK and we hold the majority of spares on the shelf. Our service engineers are available 24/7 to provide service and support.
Our warranty is one of the best in the marketplace. With an 8 year airend and 5 year parts warranty you can rest assured that our air compressors are built to last.
Budget #
Cost considerations involve both the initial purchase and long-term running and maintenance costs. Higher-end compressors may have features like greater durability or efficiency, which can save you money in the long run. At Avelair, we offer a wide range of air compressors which come with the benefit of a modular design that allows you to add additional equipment, such as driers and filtration systems, easily and cost-effectively.
At Avelair we will work with you to understand the above factors to make sure you will end up with the most appropriate air conditioner for your needs. We are also able to carry out an audit of your compressed air system to understand how you are using your compressed air and to identify areas that can be improved to reduce overall energy consumption.
To find out more please call the Avelair team on 01359 27 28 28 or email info@avelair.co.uk