Today, the choice of air compressors is abundant. A number of factors determine the answer to this question, including the operating requirements, application, and budget.
Ideal for constant-volume applications, rotary screw compressors are used extensively in applications above 30 hp and are often limited to a maximum air pressure of 150 psig. Rotary screw compressors typically have a higher initial cost than reciprocating compressors and require costly maintenance programs. Common advantages include a low noise level, low vibration, and 100% duty cycle.

Reciprocating (piston) air compressors are widely considered as ‘work-horse’ compressors. They may be seen in the corner of the garage, in auto body and tire shops, woodworking facilities, hospitals, construction sites, amusement parks, and industrial facilities. Industrial reciprocating compressors are able to operate in a severe duty environment, have lower initial costs, lower maintenance costs, and are ideal for intermittent duty operation. They save energy in no-load conditions and operate efficiently at partial loads, which results in a higher overall efficiency for many diverse applications. Piston compressors are more forgiving than rotaries and normally operate more dependably in less than ideal conditions.
Historically, it was not possible to provide the benefits of a reciprocating compressor in a low noise application. For this reason, rotary screw compressors have been misapplied in intermittent duty applications, resulting in frequent downtime, inefficient operation, problems with condensate, and higher maintenance costs.

Industrial Reciprocating

• Intermittent duty applications
• Lower initial cost
• Lower maintenance costs
• Easy maintenance
• Typical pressure range up to 175 psig
• Typically 30 hp & below
• Can operate in harsh environment
• Low sound NOW available