In different sectors one of the most used equipment is the air compressors as they are used in automation and assembly, agriculture, construction and the chemical manufacturing industries. The primary task of an air compressor is to convert the power from an external source mainly diesel engines and electric motors to stored energy which is released in the form of pressured air. Pressurized air from the compressor is used to power other machinery and equipment. When in the market seeking for an air compressor there is the need to pay attention to select the best compressor as a mistake will lead to financial loss on the part of the company. The compressors that are available in the market vary in terms of their operation methods, level of pressure that they are capable of delivering and their air capacity. One thus needs to consider the duration as well as the cost of buying the compressor when they are buying one as much as they need to purchase a compressor that will balance capacity of the air they can hold and the level of pressure that they deliver.
Based on their method of operation, there are three types of industrial compressors that one can purchase in the market. One kind of the compressors is the reciprocating compressors which work as positive displacement compressors. The reciprocating compressors have pumps which also have pistons and cylinders that are attached which serves to press the air reducing the volume of the air and thus resulting in the high pressures of the air being displaced from the compressor. One also, chooses between the direct drive and the belt drive kinds of reciprocating air compressors but it is advisable to purchase the belt drive compressors as they are durable and also effective. Due to their portability and their effectiveness the reciprocating compressors are recommendable for the building traders.
The second type of compressors is the rotary screw compressors which also function by positive displacement process. The rotary screw compressors operate using helical screws and are smoother than the pistons thus less surges and vibration than the case of reciprocating compressors. In comparison with the reciprocating compressors, the rotary screw compressors are easier to maintain, durable and also have a larger air capacity. Some have variable speeds meaning that one controls the airflow and they are used in construction sites, factories and hospitals.
The last kind of the compressors is the centrifugal compressors which rely on the momentum gained through rotating a disk to pressurize and transfer air. One can also control the pressure of the air as they have inlet guide vanes. Some of the applications of the centrifugal compressors include in automotive, air conditioners and refrigerators.