Archive for the ‘Air Compressors’ Category

Compressor Air Quality Testing

Compressor Air Quality Testing

If your compressed air comes into contact with products or your employees use breathing air sets while at work, you are legally obligated to comply with air quality standards. These standards protect you, your workers, the public, and your bottom line. For a host of reasons, professional compressor air quality testing is essential for more than just abiding by the law.

Compressed air contaminated with oils, dust, and other particles can cause your industrial tools and equipment to degrade prematurely. This can lead to unnecessarily high repair bills in the long run. More importantly, you must keep your air quality optimal to guarantee a flawless finish with your end products.

On top of all that, compressed air quality testing can streamline your overall operations and minimise the risk of business downtime, which can result in a loss of revenue and a tarnished reputation. Fortunately, if you need expert air quality testing from a team of highly qualified technicians, you have come to the right place.

At Search Air, we have been a Premier Distributor for Atlas Copco since 2001, ensuring we only supply and install the highest quality compressed air solutions on the market. Our Atlas Copco-certified engineers use the latest diagnostics equipment to test the quality of your air. Better still, we aim to do it for an unbeatable, high-value price.

Why is Compressed Air Testing Essential?

Here are three key reasons why testing is crucial:

Health and Safety

You might assume that compressed air systems pose little risk to employee health, breathing air testing needs to be carried out every three months. Contaminated compressed air poses a serious risk to your health, even when inhaled in tiny quantities in some cases. Sources of contamination can include onsite industrial or manufacturing processes, vehicle exhaust fumes, filtration issues, and problems with the compressor’s overall performance.

There are many ways in which low-quality compressed air can be hazardous. Low or high levels of gases including oxygen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and oil particles, can all pose a risk to human health.

Compliance

Low-quality and contaminated compressed air and gases like nitrogen can be harmful, so regulations are in place for safety reasons. You may be obligated by law to undergo periodic air testing in line with industry standards such as the ISO 8753 and the EN12021. 

These standards contain minimum requirements to meet purity classes for your industry.

Fortunately, while compliance seems more like a must than a benefit, it does ensure that your workplace remains operational and safe. It also leads us nicely to the next point.

Equipment and Product Protection

You might think slight alterations in compressed air quality and purity would make little difference to your end products or services. It is easy to see why a petrochemical plant requires a stable level of quality, but the benefits of high-quality air in small workshops may seem less obvious.

However, clean, uncontaminated, high-quality compressed air can extend the lifespan of every piece of equipment that connects to your compressor. You could save a small fortune on repairs in the long run.

Compressor Air Quality Testing

Compressor Air Quality Testing

Most Common Types of Contaminants in Compressed Air Systems

Compressed air systems are exposed to various contaminants in all industrial environments, which is why frequent and professional air quality testing is essential. Some of the most common contaminants include:

Particulates

Small amounts of dust, rust, dirt and other particles transported inside your property from outside can all contaminate your compressed air system. These contaminants are abrasive and can cause early wear and tear on any piece of equipment powered by your compressor.

Moisture

Excess moisture or humidity can lead to microbial growth, especially in food-grade air applications. It can also cause components in pneumatic systems to freeze and rust, especially in colder and humid environments.

Oil Residue

Oil vapours from other compressor components can find their way into your air stream. They can also be present in the air your system initially compresses, even if filters remove most of them. This can lead to clogged filters and expensive mechanical problems without being addressed.

Industry Standards for Compressed Air Quality

Some of the most common industry standards that you may need to comply with include:

ISO 8573-1:2010

This widely accepted standard defines the minimum acceptable levels of particulates, oil vapour, and moisture for compressed air. Classifications range from very pure to general use, depending on your industry and application requirements.

ISO 12500

This standard relates to the performance of your compressed air system’s filters, specifically with regard to oil aerosols, water vapour, and solid particles.

Our Advanced and Certified Testing Methods

We use advanced testing equipment to accurately measure carbon dioxide, oxygen, water, oil, and carbon monoxide levels in your compressed air, compressed air components such as filters, and your breathing air. We are fully qualified to perform these tests in line with UK regulations. We also provide you with a certification of the results so that you know where to make improvements if necessary. With our help, you can stay on the right side of the law while ensuring your workplace remains safe and productive.

Learn More about Compressed Air Quality Testing

Tasks like professional compressed air quality testing in the name of compliance can often seem like a burden – a financial one at that. However, testing is not just about staying on the right side of the law. It is about maintaining workplace safety for your employees, extending the lifespan of your valuable industrial equipment, improving efficiency where possible, and remaining competitive in an increasingly competitive world.

At Search Air, we have been testing compressor/breathing air quality and maintaining compressed air systems for industrial businesses of all sizes for decades. You can feel confident that we will leave no stone unturned when it comes to your safety. We can also highlight ways for you to make improvements that could boost your bottom line. Call us today, and we look forward to providing you with more information. 

Benefits of On-Site Nitrogen Generation

Benefits of On-Site Nitrogen Generation

If you have been running a small but solid operation for years, you might think on-site nitrogen generation is ultimately not worth the investment. However, even small workshops can reduce their operating costs significantly by switching to on-site generation instead of having gas delivered.

If you run a mid-sized or growing industrial business and still rely on nitrogen deliveries, you are almost certainly missing out on huge savings. The cost of an on-site generator could pay for itself in no time. And the cost-saving benefits of an on-site nitrogen generator extend far beyond logistics.

Nitrogen generation systems can reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint. They can also improve the quality of your products and services, help you remain compliant with changing regulations, minimise business downtime … The list goes on.

At Search Air, we have been a trusted UK supplier of industrial compressed air and gas equipment for decades. We have also been a Premier Distributor for Atlas Copco – a globally recognised industry pioneer – since 2001. The benefits discussed below apply to almost all businesses regardless of size, but if you want specific advice based on your unique setup and goals, do not hesitate to get in touch for a no-obligation chat.

What is an On-Site Nitrogen Generator?

An on-site generator is an all-in-one solution that eliminates your reliance on third-party suppliers. It comprises a nitrogen generator with an air compressor and a secondary receiver for purity and pressure regulation. 

The latest systems enable you to set your required purity and pressure levels, which are adjustable to meet changing needs and demands. The most advanced solutions guarantee an extremely high level of precision, making them perfect for industries ranging from heavy manufacturing to chemical processing.

While the cost savings can vary between businesses, many see savings on nitrogen of up to 50%, so it does not take long to recoup your investment while modernising your business.

The Drawbacks of Traditional Nitrogen Suppliers

You might have been receiving a reliable gas supply from a supplier for years or even decades, feeling that there is no need to change an operation that has already proven its worth. Nevertheless, nearly all hesitant businesses that eventually make the transition discover that their operations become more streamlined and efficient. It allows them to get more done.

When you rely on traditional suppliers, you are subject to locked-in and often long-term contracts, limited delivery schedules and price hikes. You also need to maintain storage space at your facility, which – if limited – may hamper your ability to meet demand during busy periods. On top of all that, relying on traditional gas suppliers is far less eco-friendly than on-site nitrogen generation.

With all that said, what are the key benefits of on-site generation?

Benefits of On-Site Nitrogen Generation

Benefits of On-Site Nitrogen Generation

Benefits of an On-Site Nitrogen Generator

By relying on traditional gas suppliers instead of using an on-site generator, you are potentially missing out on some or all of the following benefits:

1. Lower Energy Costs

The cost per unit of nitrogen from a supplier far exceeds that of an on-site generator, and that does not factor in delivery fees. Additionally, you may be familiar with needing to purchase higher-purity gas than required from a supplier with limited options during urgent situations. With a generator, you have an endless supply of just the right amount of nitrogen you need.

2. Stable Nitrogen Purity Levels

As mentioned above, plenty of businesses have faced higher-than-ideal fees for higher-purity-than-necessary gas. Plus, while many suppliers may be dependable, any mistakes in their purities when delivering could cause damage to your business in various ways. With your own generator, developed with the latest Atlas Copco tech, you will never face such issues.

3. No Long-Term Supplier Contracts

Many suppliers expect their customers to lock into long-term contracts to secure a reliable supply. Unfortunately, this means that a significant element of your operating costs is subject to unpredictable fluctuations. As we have recently seen to the nth degree, energy prices can be extremely volatile.

4. Long-Term Savings

While an on-site generator requires a relatively significant upfront investment in some situations (and a much smaller investment than you might think in others), the savings on energy can quickly even things out. Some businesses experience a 50% reduction in their cost of gas by upgrading to an on-site solution.

5. Improved Workplace Safety

Large gas cylinders have always been a workplace hazard. While accidents may be rare, these cylinders and their mishandling have been responsible for injuries. When you can generate nitrogen, this risk is eliminated.

6. Minimised Carbon Footprint

As we all need to play our part in becoming greener, particularly in the face of ever-changing regulations, being environmentally friendly is now a top business priority. Fortunately, minimising gas consumption and wastage with a generator saves you money while streamlining your operations.

7. Reliable Maintenance Agreements

Provided you purchase your generator from a reputable team of engineers, you will generally have agreed and affordable routine maintenance schedules that maximise the lifespan of your equipment – including the generator itself and all the equipment it powers.

8. Increased Workplace Productivity

With a reliable source of quality nitrogen, no need to move heavy cylinders, and a much lower risk of business downtime, you can dramatically boost workplace productivity and efficiency with a gas generator.

Learn More about Nitrogen Generation

At Search Air, we help businesses of all sizes reduce their energy usage, running costs, and emissions with the latest range of featured-packed Atlas Copco compressed air and gas solutions. The benefits detailed above only scratch the surface. If you want to learn even more about the business pros of onsite generation, especially regarding how they relate to your specific business, do not hesitate to call our team of friendly and seasoned engineers. We will be delighted to explain how a generator can offer many more benefits than you might expect.

Contact us today. 

A Guide to Air Compressor Monitoring Systems

A Guide to Air Compressor Monitoring Systems

With the UK’s high and rising energy prices, finding innovative ways to reduce your consumption is now more critical than ever. In competitive industries such as automotive and manufacturing, maintaining quality is crucial. Therefore, high-energy-consuming tools and equipment become essential.

Fortunately, the latest monitoring systems can significantly reduce the energy usage of your air compressor systems, which might account for a significant portion of your overall consumption. And they can do much more than just shave a handsome sum off your running costs.

Our range of air compressor monitoring systems is equipped with high-tech features like remote monitoring and automation, giving you more flexibility over the management of your operation while increasing workplace efficiency. They can also help ensure you remain compliant with the UK’s ever-evolving regulations and improve your workplace air quality.

At Search Air, we work with industry-leading manufacturers like Atlas Copco to provide state-of-the-art equipment for the manufacturing, automotive, pharmaceutical, oil and gas industries, and more. We have been a Premier Distributor for Atlas Copco since 2001, so you can feel confident that we can tailor a bespoke solution for your needs. Call us to find out how we can bring your business up to speed.

What is a Compressed Air Monitoring System?

Compressed air monitoring systems give you maximum oversight over your compressed air system’s operability. These systems analyse a range of critical data points to provide you with a comprehensive overview of your air compressor’s condition. On top of enabling you to optimise the efficiency of your systems, monitoring solutions can help you catch minor problems before they spiral out of control – which could save you a small fortune in the long run.

Compressed air monitoring systems can include temperature monitoring and vibration analysis, which can detect slight abnormalities in your system that could indicate an issue, such as an impending bearing failure. Our advanced systems also have pressure sensors that can identify pressure drops, leaks and a range of other irregularities.

Different Types of Air Compressor Monitoring Systems

Because we know there is not a one-size-fits-all solution for the industries we serve, we can design monitoring systems using the most advanced Atlas Copco equipment to meet your unique needs, whether you need to monitor a single compressor in a workshop or a network of them across multiple sites. Broadly, our solutions fall into the following categories.

Local Monitoring Systems

The most basic solutions focus primarily on service warnings, which is ideal for small businesses like workshops and garages. These systems provide flexible options for on-site control but may lack the remote accessibility required for growing businesses in today’s world.

Remote Monitoring Solutions

If you need the flexibility to oversee and manage your monitoring system from just about anywhere, you might be better off with one of our remote monitoring solutions. These advanced cloud-based systems provide off-site monitoring capabilities and remote alerts, reports, and diagnostics, reducing your need to pay for on-site supervision. This option is ideal for most businesses in the modern age, and we have solutions to suit those with multiple business locations.

Smart Factory Integration

Our most advanced compressor monitoring systems can be integrated with multiple compressors and many of your internet-enabled devices thanks to Internet of Things (IoT) technology. Using one central controller, you could gain the power to remotely manage, oversee, and optimise almost all your advanced tools and equipment. While these may be the most expensive systems to purchase, they offer unrivalled long-term savings.

If you need help determining which type of system will best suit your needs, give us a call. We have been industry leaders for decades, and no task is beyond the scope or capabilities of our seasoned experts.

Atlas Copco’s Latest Systems

We are excited to be among the UK’s most trusted suppliers of Atlas Copco equipment because it proves our commitment to settling for nothing but the best for our clients. We have the latest cloud-based SMARTLINK solutions in stock right now that allow you to check on your compressed air systems while on the move. You can track the performance of your equipment using a tablet or smartphone.

We also stock the advanced range of SMARTVIEW systems, which connect to a central controller of your local area network. These systems are ideal for large enterprises where in-depth technical analysis is required.

A guide to Air Compressor Monitoring Systems

A guide to Air Compressor Monitoring Systems

Benefits of Air Compressor Monitoring Systems

Monitoring solutions can deliver a plethora of tangible benefits to your business, such as:

  • Increased energy efficiency: track your systems’ energy usage and identify deficiencies to reduce consumption.
  • Optimal load management: ensure your compressors operate within optimal balance and load ranges.
  • Early problem detection: catch small problems before they exacerbate and become increasingly costly to repair.
  • Reduced downtime: make sure technical issues do not hamper your ability to do business.
  • Extended equipment lifespan: prevent compressor problems from reducing the quality of your valuable tools and equipment.
  • Consistent pressure levels: proactively monitor your pressure levels in real-time through automation.
  • Improved workplace safety: identify potentially unsafe operating conditions such as excessive pressure and overheating.

If you want to learn more about the benefits of the latest compressor monitoring systems, we are only a phone call away.

Discover Our Selection of Compressor Monitoring Solutions

At Search Air, we have been supplying, installing, maintaining, repairing, and upgrading the most advanced compressor monitoring systems by Atlas Copco for over two decades. In addition to the most advanced and energy-efficient solutions on the market, we boast a team of highly experienced engineers and technicians, high-value prices, and unparalleled customer service. Call us for your compressor needs, and you will have a dedicated partner for life.

Whether you have a few questions or need a technician to visit your site and assess your requirements, we hope to hear from you for a no-obligation chat. Contact us today, and we look forward to telling you more about the cost-saving benefits of our compressor solutions.

Contact us today. 

What is a Variable Speed Drive (VSD) Air Compressor?

What is a Variable Speed Drive (VSD) Air Compressor?

Air compressors are used in a wide range of industries, from manufacturing and healthcare to automotive and construction. However, the type of air compressor businesses use varies greatly. Noisy reciprocating compressors used in workshops and by mechanics are different from screw compressors commonly used in manufacturing processes, and a VSD air compressor can be used for applications that need a controlled speed. 

It is even more precise than that because, unlike other types of compressors, a VSD works in real time to match the speed of the motor to the amount of air needed to complete the task. 

Even though there are only small fluctuations and speed changes on each task it performs, this adds up to a much more energy-efficient process when used consistently. It is not just a small amount either because VSD can save businesses around 30–50% on energy consumption compared to other air compressors, resulting in lower energy bills and less wear on the parts. 

How Does a VSD Air Compressor Work?

Compared to most other air compressors, a VSD is efficient because it has built-in intelligence in the form of a smart inverter. This inverter can take in real-time feedback from the air compressor’s performance and then dynamically adjust the system to deliver the most efficient results. 

This frequency inverter can alter the speed of the motor so that when the demand for air is high, the machine responds with a higher output. Conversely, when the demand is low, energy is conserved by lowering the revolutions per minute (rpm). 

Regular fixed-speed compressors without a VSD produce a constant flow of air, which is ideal for some applications but less efficient for other requirements. 

What are the Benefits of a VSD Air Compressor?

A VSD has many advantages over traditional compressors with a fixed speed. The main benefit is the high level of energy efficiency it provides to operations large and small, as the motor is not running at a high rpm when it does not need to. The energy reduction is significant, and some models can make using the equipment up to 50% more efficient, which translates into significantly reduced energy bills for a business and a smaller carbon footprint. 

You can expect less wear and tear on the parts, as the VSD only runs at speeds fit for the task, resulting in savings on new parts and the machine lasting longer. They are also much quieter than their counterparts as the rpm fluctuates, and they do not make loud noises when they do not have to. 

Additional advantages include preventing idle time and unnecessary overpressurisation, reducing blow-offs, and less leakage due to consistent and uniform pressure. 

Where are VSD Air Compressors Used?

VSD air compressors are highly versatile and are used in countless applications to provide high efficiency for vehicle assembly lines or packaging food. Here are just some of the many ways VSDs are used by businesses:

  • Electronics manufacturing: VSDs are an essential part of operations, whether printed circuit boards need soldering and blasts of clean, pure air to clean any dust or robotic arms for pick-and-place tasks.
  • Food production: VSDs can help dry food with a blast of precisely controlled air, and they are also used in packaging processes such as vacuum packing, bottling, sealing, canning, and applying labels.
  • Automotive assembly: VSDs give car assembly lines the power they need to undertake a wide range of tasks, from controlling compressed air tools like riveters and impact wrenches to spray painting the surface of a newly built vehicle.
  • Pharmaceutical production: drugs and chemicals must be created and packaged in a clean and sterile environment. VSDs can be used as they have an oil-free option and can power systems used for air filtration and tablet pressing.
  • Consumer goods: lots of the plastic we use in everyday life is created by injection moulding, and VSDs power the pneumatics used to cool the products and clamp them ready for painting or further moulding.

So, whether it is the production of microchips for our computers and phones that we use daily or the safety of the vehicles we drive, VSDs in air compressors play an important role in every aspect of life across various industries. 

What is a Variable Speed Drive (VSD) Air Compressor?

What is a Variable Speed Drive (VSD) Air Compressor?

How to Maintain VSD Air Compressors?

As with any piece of machinery, maintenance is the secret to its longevity and ability to function as efficiently as possible. A qualified technician can diagnose and monitor the performance of a VSD air compressor to keep it in top shape and continue to deliver the high level of efficiency it is known for. 

When they perform a maintenance health check, they will examine the inverter to ensure no faults with the wiring or connections and to see if there is adequate insulation. The circuit boards will also be checked for signs of damage or corrosion, and the whole system will be tested for pressure and airflow to ensure the filters are clean and there are no leaks. 

As VSDs owe their efficiency to sensors, a technician will check the pressure and temperature sensors to calibrate them properly for maximum accuracy. 

If you are considering purchasing or hiring a VSD air compressor for your business, reach out to the air compressor experts here at Search Air, and we will be able to walk you through the range of options best suited to your requirements. We also offer servicing, maintenance, and repair of VSDs so that your operations run smoothly and maximise productivity. 

Contact us today. 

How to Make Your Air Compressor More Efficient

How to Make Your Air Compressor More Efficient

Air compressors have become an indispensable part of businesses around the UK as they can be used in a wide range of sectors. Whether it is manufacturing plants, food production or for use in the automotive industry, air compressors are an excellent tool power source. Still, there is always more that can be done to ensure maximum efficiency. 

An efficient air compressor will deliver lower energy bills, boost productivity, reduce the need for maintenance, and be more environmentally friendly overall. 

There are various types of air compressors used by companies in factories and small commercial units, each with its own efficiency rating. Rotary screw air compressors and scroll air compressors are the most efficient types. However, rotary vane and piston air compressors have advantages for certain tasks. 

Variable speed drive (VSD) air compressors are gaining in popularity, too, thanks to their ability to adjust the output based on fluctuating demand. 

Whatever air compressor you use, there are always ways to make it run more efficiently. We will explore the top five methods for improving the efficiency of your air compressor.

 

How to Make Your Air Compressor More Efficient

How to Make Your Air Compressor More Efficient

Frequent maintenance

Air compressors require regular maintenance to keep them functioning at their best – like any other machinery. An air compressor maintenance check helps identify minor issues before they escalate into major problems, which are more costly to fix.

During a maintenance check, a qualified technician can test the seals, clean out or replace air filters, check the belts, add lubrication if needed, and detect leaks. These things together add up to a finely tuned machine capable of performing much more efficiently. 

How regularly your air compressor needs maintenance depends on factors such as the size of the system, how often it is used, what pressures it is operating at, and how old the air compressor is. Basic inspections can be done daily or weekly, such as moisture drainage and listening for unusual noises, but, for most machines, we recommend a health checkup every six months.

Check the pressure

It is a good idea to pay attention to the pressure of your air compressor system as it is possible to reduce the pressure and still benefit from the same performance. Many systems have the pressure set too high, which has a knock-on effect on the cost of energy it uses. 

You save a lot of energy for every bar of pressure you reduce in the system. So, it is best to alter the pressure according to the task or when the air compressor is used less frequently. 

Pressure drops also reduce productivity for tools using compressed air, as they need the necessary pressure to work efficiently. Pressure fluctuations, whether too high or too low, can damage the air compressor and cause failure of certain parts. 

Look for air leaks

One of the major causes of energy wastage in an air compressor is a leak in the system. An air leak can reduce the output by a massive 30%, and there is an associated jump in energy costs. A constant decrease in pressure is a good indicator of a leak in the system, and several reasons may cause it. 

A damaged hose is one of the main culprits of an air leak, especially when used in an environment with lots of vibrations or movement. The connectors that fit hoses can also be at fault and need tightening. 

Couplings, seals, gaskets, and valves are other potential parts that could be responsible for a leak. So, it is best to have frequent air compressor maintenance to resolve any of these issues and restore efficiency quickly. 

Upgrade your system

Brand-new air compressors have many energy-efficient features that give you the best performance. A more efficient motor can be installed to cut energy consumption, which is helpful when you need a steady flow of air for specific machinery and tools. 

For example, the filter system and pressure regulators can be upgraded and swapped for new models with proven energy-saving benefits. Energy use can be reduced drastically by using a VSD air compressor, which alters the output according to demand. 

Upgrading your air compressor does not have to be expensive. Sometimes, small changes can make a big difference. New tubing and valves, for example, do not cost the earth but can help to keep your system performing at its optimal capacity. 

Optimise the system layout

If you already have a large air compressor setup in an industrial or commercial unit, consider optimising the piping layout. Bottlenecks and bends reduce efficiency, and you can even consider changing the diameter of pipes to get the most out of your air compressor. 

Installing controllers capable of detecting flow and pressure settings and altering the output is another way to enhance efficiency. Real-time data can be analysed by a smart system or an engineer working remotely and monitoring system efficiency. 

The design and installation of a new system can have a large initial outlay but, in the long run, your business will save money every time the equipment is used. 

If you are experiencing air compressor inefficiency, it is best to reach out to a professional air compressor service such as Search Air to diagnose the main problems. A maintenance checkup is the best way to determine your system’s overall health and ensure there are no leaks or parts that need replacing. If your system is still not performing as efficiently as you would like, you can discuss further options like system upgrades, system optimisation, and new parts with a qualified engineer.

Contact us today.

What Do Air Compressors Do?

What Do Air Compressors Do?

Air compressors are an extremely useful tool for various commercial and industrial applications, especially in the manufacturing and construction sectors. They work by taking in air through a filter and compressing it to increase the pressure significantly. This pressurised air is stored or used directly to power everything from nail guns to pneumatic drills and powder coating equipment. 

There are many varieties of air compressors, each of which has its benefits and drawbacks. Screw compressors, for example, can deliver a continuous and steady flow of pressurised air, whereas a reciprocating compressor provides air in pulses as it uses pistons. However, reciprocating compressors have a lower initial cost outlay than screw compressors and can be used for tasks that do not require a smooth airflow, such as tyre inflation. 

Here, we will explore the various benefits of all air compressors and discuss why they offer several advantages over alternative options, such as electric power tools, hand tools, gas tools, and hydraulic tools.

Save Money

Air compressors are created with energy-efficient designs, making them cost-effective in the long run compared to other types of tools that use electricity or hydraulics. 

The initial costs of compressed air tools and machines are lower, and air compressor maintenance is often more affordable than you would expect. Many air compressors benefit from energy recovery, utilising excess heat to warm a property.

Less Manual Labour

Air-compressed tools have numerous advantages over manual tools such as wrenches, ratchets and nail guns. They can deliver greater force with more precision. They will not cause fatigue in the same way when being used for repetitive tasks such as manually hammering in hundreds of nails or drilling thousands of holes. 

They consistently achieve the results required for a task. They are also much more versatile than traditional tools, which usually have one specific purpose. 

Less Environmental Impact

Investing in air compressors means less wasted heat and electricity for businesses trying to reduce their carbon footprint – which can lead to lower overall emissions. Oil-free air compressors do not have the issues that come with using chemicals for cleaning the equipment – no oil contamination can occur in environments such as food processing plants, for example. 

Energy use can be curtailed even further when businesses choose variable speed drives (VSDs) for their compressor needs. 

Safer Operation

Air compressors are considered one of the safest tools to use as they can be operated at high temperatures or for projects requiring high torque. Unlike electric-powered tools, they do not give off sparks or shocks, allowing them to be used in various environments, including where combustible gases are present. 

They have fewer parts that can break compared to their hydraulic counterparts, resulting in fewer accidents from weakened parts. 

Versatile 

Air compressors can be used with a wide variety of other equipment to achieve anything other tools can, including paint sprayers and pneumatic drills for construction workers. 

Everything from polishing, sanding, inflating, and stapling can be done with an air compressor and compatible tools, making it suitable for various sectors such as electronics, food production, and healthcare. They can be installed in an industrial building or carried as a portable tool for working offsite.

Easy to Maintain 

Reliable, dependable, and easy to maintain, air compressors have a durable design to withstand high pressures and frequent use in tough environments. Air compressors are less likely to experience part failure because they have fewer moving parts than gas-powered equipment or hydraulics. 

The most common air compressor maintenance includes replacing filters, oil, and small parts like seals and valves every few months, depending on the frequency of use.

What Do Air Compressors Do

What Do Air Compressors Do

Energy Efficient

Air compressors are highly efficient machines engineered to maximise power from minimal energy input. Modern air compressors have many technological advancements, such as systems that track and calibrate the machine for optimised performance. 

Heat recovery systems take the excess heat generated and use it for another purpose, such as heating a boiler. 

Portable

Not all air compressors are for industrial-scale use. Portable air compressors allow flexibility. This makes them ideal for construction sites where air wrenches and nail guns are frequently required around a building or roadside mechanics that inflate tyres or clean engine parts. 

Those working in other kinds of remote jobs, such as painters, carpenters, and farmers, can also benefit from the portability of their specialist equipment. 

Quiet

Air compressors are relatively quiet compared to gas, electric, and hydraulic tools. Some have superior levels of soundproofing, only giving a sound output of around 60–75 decibels (dB). If an air compressor motor has a low revolution per minute (rpm), the sound will be further reduced as it moves slower and mechanical parts do not work as hard. 

Oil-free air compressors are some of the quietest around and can be used daily without ear protection. This is a significant factor if used in smaller areas. 

With so many advantages, if your business requires an air compressor, it’s difficult to find a reason not to use one. If you want to buy or rent an air compressor for the first time or replace an existing one, talk to the experts here at Search Air, as we stock a range of makes and models for any requirement. We have everything you need, from small portable compressors to custom-built industrial air compressors. We also offer quality air compressor servicing and maintenance. 

Contact us today.