Compressors. How to choose them according to the task to be carried out?

In previous publications we have dealt with the subject of compressors in an introductory manner, we also dealt with some of their practical applications, as well as the maintenance of these versatile equipment.

On this occasion, we will discuss in detail the best way to choose the right compressor , taking into account the work to be done and the technical aspects of the instrument.

Technical characteristics of a compressor

There are aspects of the operation of compressors , which must be taken into account when choosing them. These aspects must meet certain criteria, according to the use that is going to be given to the compressor. In other words, depending on the tasks or jobs that are going to be carried out with the compressor, its characteristics must comply with certain values ​​and certain information must be taken into account to maximize its use.

airflow capacity

This is the main aspect to know. Depending on the work to be carried out, a certain air flow and a certain pressure are needed. Tools or devices that can be activated with a compressor can consume an air flow of up to 6.6 liters per second (l/s), such is the case of some drills or paint guns .

On the other hand, if it is required to use several tools simultaneously, each output volume must be added and add 25% of the total. This with the aim of covering the transmission of pressure, through the hoses.

The standard unit of airflow is cubic feet per minute (CFM). For example, a 1.9 l/s impact wrench and a 5 l/s riveter , the CFM that the compressor should deliver is a minimum of 6.9 l/s.

compressor power

This is another important factor to consider. The power of a compressor can be between 1 and 5 or 6 horsepower (HP) or CV. Compressors with less HP are used for simple activities such as inflating tires, mattresses, among others . The compressors with 5 or 6 HP are the professional or industrial range models.

In a compressor , the higher the power, the greater the pressure generation capacity and therefore the greater work capacity. For example, for simple or household tasks, 1 HP is sufficient. For activities that require 350 or 400 liters of output, compressors up to 2 HP are recommended. If an output of approximately 1000 liters is required, a 4 or 5 HP compressor is necessary.

Portability

This characteristic will depend on whether the compressor is going to be used in a fixed place, or if it needs to be used in different places. It is very important to be able to count on the ease of transportation of the compressor , in case it is required to use it in different places.
Some models of compressors have a handle and wheels that facilitate their mobility, allowing work to be carried out in different places. Such is the case of the compressors that are used for painting.

On the other hand, there are also models that have a vertical design, which makes it easy to store in small places.

As a complement to the technical data of the compressors, we will describe some tasks and the ideal compressor to execute them.

Inflate or inflate objects

If you want to use the compressor for basic tasks like inflating objects, a 1 horsepower kit with a minimum of 13 CFM airflow is sufficient. This equipment will be more than enough to inflate everything from balls to even tires.

Taking into account the task to be carried out, it would be very advisable to acquire a portable compressor . Being able to transport the equipment outdoors, or inside the vehicle for emergencies, is the most recommended.

It would also be ideal if the compressor had the necessary accessories to carry out its work of inflating objects. It is an additional point that could be verified when selecting the equipment.

In fact, there are currently compressors on the market specifically designed to carry out the work of inflating objects. These types of compressors generally have a set of accessories that allow them to carry out their work without problems.

Cleaning

To carry out cleaning tasks in open, closed or equipment and machinery areas, a 1 or 2 horsepower compressor is the perfect helper.

For professional equipment maintenance jobs, such as computers and welding machines , to name a few, the use of an air compressor is ideal for clearing accumulated waste in certain areas, which must be clear for the proper functioning of the equipment. The power of the expelled air must be regulated, on the one hand it must be powerful to expel the residues and on the other it must be soft so as not to cause damage to the device under maintenance. Herein lies the importance of choosing the compressor with the appropriate characteristics, for carrying out equipment cleaning.

DIY and painting

For a variety of home repair and maintenance tasks, a 34 CFM, 2 horsepower compressor may be your choice. For this type of work, a compressor that has a 24l air storage tank, at least, would be perfect.

As a general rule, repairs and the application of paint in the home are carried out in different places of the facility, which is why a transportable compressor model is recommended.

Neumatic tools

For repair, remodeling, and general assembly jobs that require the implementation of pneumatic tools , a compressor with greater power and air flow is needed.
With a compressor that has an air flow of 42 CFM and 3 horsepower, it will be enough for activities that require the use of pneumatic tools .

In this case, it is recommended that the compressor have a reserve air tank, for continuous work without interruptions. A 50l tank represents a perfect option.

On the other hand, since you want to use the compressor for tool use , you may want to move it from one place to another, so a portable model could be an option. If the compressor is required for use in a small space workshop, consider the vertical design models, which also meet the criteria already discussed.

Additional factors to consider

Quality – It is very important that you buy a compressor that has the quality you need, no matter what type of task you are going to perform with it. Take into account the houses and brands recognized and with experience, when selecting your compressor. Verify that the equipment has the corresponding guarantee, this will be the guarantee of the proper functioning of the equipment and its durability.

Support and maintenance : another aspect to take into account is whether there are authorized agents in your area who can provide technical support and maintenance to your compressor, should it be required. Although compressor maintenance is relatively easy for users to perform, expert advice may be needed.

Electric or gasoline power source : among the various models of compressors , we can find those that work with an electrical connection or those that work with gasoline as an energy source. This aspect must also be considered when selecting the compressor. If the area in which you are going to work does not have an electrical connection, it is obvious that the best option is a compressor that works on gasoline. Of course, this type of compressor requires replacement of fuel from time to time. As for the electric models, despite the fact that they do not require refueling, they may limit the portability of the equipment a bit, since they must always be close to an electrical outlet.

Compressor Care

Regardless of the use or application to which the compressor is put , it is very important that certain steps be taken for its care and maintenance.

• Before starting to use the compressor , you should wait for it to warm up, especially if the compressor has not been used for a long time. Giving this time to the equipment allows the compressor oil to distribute and reach each and every one of the parts of the machine, thus allowing all the parts to function correctly.
• Avoiding the overheating of the compressor is another of the cares that must be taken. If the equipment is used extensively, it may overheat, which can cause damage. If you consider that the compressor temperature is too high, it is recommended to check the equipment to verify that there is no type of obstruction in the air flow. Another aspect that must be verified in these cases is the oil level, which must be adequate.
• One of the elements that must be replaced periodically is the compressor air filter . This must be constantly checked to ensure that it is in good condition and that it is not clogged or full of dust or particles absorbed by the equipment during its operation.
• It is good practice to keep a reserve of oil, to use in case the compressor parts begin to generate a “slamming” noise when the equipment is running.
• After using the compressor , you must clean the filter in order to remove the dust collected during the use of the equipment. If the compressor has not been used for a long time, it is recommended that the filter be cleaned.

Taking these criteria and aspects into account, you will be able to choose the compressor that best suits your requirements without any problem.

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