You need a reciprocating air compressor in a workshop or garage for you to work efficiently. This equipment is costly, and therefore you need to make the right choice. If you buy one that does not suit your business, it will be a huge loss and will not help you in any way. So what should you look out before you pay for the compressor?
The type of reciprocating compressor you need
There are three types of compressed air system design, and they include, single stage, two stages, and twin compressors. The single stage unit compresses the air with a single stroke and goes up to one cubic per minute or 20 CFM with a 125 psi pressure. If you want more than that, go for the two-stage unit. It has two pistons and uses two stages when compressing the air. The big cylinder is for pressure and the small one for high pressure. The air is cooled between the two stages. You choose what to buy depending on the capacity you need.
1. Capacity (CFM) and Pressure
When buying a compressor its pressure and capacity are both critical specifications. You should find the total amount of air consumed by your air tools. While small tools such as the nailers consume very little, big ones like the sanders and grinders need a lot of air. It is easy to know how much-compressed air you need. Just read the specifications on each tool and buy based on the tool that requires the highest pressure. It is a good idea to go for a compressed air system design that gives more than what you think you need.
2. Electrical connections
After buying the compressor, you will be happy and eager to use it. However, not many people can wire it up. It needs 3 phase power, and you might need an electrician to confirm that. The biggest drawback may be the lack of proper electrical wiring or 3 phase power because it may be very costly.
3. Noise
Consider where you want to install the compressor, is outside or inside? Most reciprocating compressors make lots of noise. Therefore be sure to check the level of the sound before you purchase. Ask the seller to run it for you and decide if it’s suitable for you or not.
When installing your prefered compressed air system design, always make sure you use the right air compressor piping. This is the delivery mechanism, and without it, you cannot take the air where needed.