Air compressors are pressure machines that convert atmospheric air into a pressurized gas. The machines can be found in different sizes and for various uses. The primary function of air compressors is to power air tools. Examples include paint spray, staple guns, filling in a water pool, or even filling in your car tires. When deciding on an air compressor, you need to find the one that matches your specific need. This is because every type of air compressor functions differently from the rest.
There are two main types of air compressors – the oil-free compressors and the oil-infused compressors. Knowing how each works will enable you to make the right decision when choosing to purchase an air compressor.
Oil-infused compressors simply use oil as a form of lubrication. They require routine maintenance to ensure there are no oil leakages or spillage. Here’s a list of some of the oil-based compressors and how they work.
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Piston Air Compressors
The central technology revolving around this type of compressor is the positive displacement of air. The machine is also known as the reciprocating air compressors. This type of compressors is the most common type used around homes or wood shops. The machine uses an electric motor which helps to push the piston. The piston then forces air into a storage tank. This causes the pressure inside the tank to rise to a specified level. This air is then delivered to a valve which compresses the air further and pushes it to the second tank. This double cylinder reciprocating compressors are majorly used in commercial companies for high-level productions.
The piston air compressors may also have one tank. On the other hand, the double tank piston compressors are mainly used in big companies and occupy a large working area. This type is commonly used to power nail guns or spray guns. Hence, it can easily be modified into a portable tool. When the piston forces air into the cylinder, the pressure rises to a specific level. The compressor then stops running to allow the tool to use the stored air.
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Rotary Screw Compressors
This machine also operates under the positive air displacement theory. It has two matching screws which are turned by the use of electronic energy. The screws guide the air into a compressing chamber.
On the other hand, oil-free compressors are considered as the best type of compressors due to the ease in maintenance. The primary kind of oil-free compressor is the centrifugal air compressor. This machine operates under the dynamic displacement of air theory. This means that it uses a centrifugal compressor which converts kinetic energy to centrifugal force.
The cat8010 is one of the popular types of oil-free compressors. The machine has some of the best air compressor features, including an oil-free pump – a belt drive system that reduces the operating noise. When buying an air compressor, check for the horsepower specifications. This simply ensures that you purchase a top quality machine since the horsepower ratings indicate the output capacity of the engine.