What is an air compressor and how does it work?
An air compressor is a machine that uses mechanical energy from a drive to raise air pressure. The compressed air then transfers energy to tools, actuators and process equipment.
Common compressor types
A piston compressor compresses air as a piston moves inside a cylinder. A screw compressor reduces the volume between rotating rotors and the housing. Selection depends on duty, required flow and pressure, air quality and maintenance; no single type is best for every application.
Flow, pressure and power are different quantities
Pressure describes the pressure level at which air is supplied. Volume flow is the volume of air per unit time at specified conditions. Electrical power is the rate of energy consumption. Comparing compressors by kilowatts alone is insufficient: compare delivered flow at the required pressure and the conditions used to state it.
The compressor is part of a system
Receivers, dryers, filters, drains and piping have different functions. Oil-lubricated and oil-free describe compressor construction; they do not replace requirements for particles, water and oil at the point of use. Start selection with the end-use equipment specifications and site conditions.
What to prepare
- Flow required by each end use
- Minimum pressure at the connection
- Duty and simultaneous operation
- Required air quality
This guide helps assemble inputs. Check the complete datasheet for the specific model’s conditions.