What to know before Buying an Air Compressor - Chicago Pneumatic

Buying an air compressor requires time and efforts. You have to compare several brands and find the technology that suits your compressed air requirements.

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Whether you are a DIY enthusiast, a professional, or an industrial user, selecting the right air compressor is crucial for the efficiency and longevity of your tools.

By reading this air compressor buying guide, you will learn everything you need to know about compressed air before purchasing an air compressor. At the end of this blog, you will be informed enough to choose the air compressor meeting your needs.

Air compressors are versatile tools that convert power into potential energy stored in pressurized air. You can apply this compressed air to several works. Some of them are to power various pneumatic tools, from nail guns and paint sprayers to industrial machinery.

The very first factors to consider when choosing an air compressor include the capacity, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), pressure, expressed in pounds per square inch (PSI), and tank size.

Air capacity and air flow must be define from the very beginning, to determinate the compressor's ability to power tools. The air capacity defines the volume of air the compressor can deliver. The pressure refers at which pressure the air goes out of the compressor.

Different tools varies in terms of amount or compressed air required, as well as, at which pressure they need it. For this reason, it's essential to choose a compressor that meets or exceeds these requirements.

The tank size of an air compressor affects how long you can use your tools before the compressor needs to refill it. Larger tanks provide more air and require to be fulfill less frequently. For these reasons, they are ideal for continuous or heavy-duty use. Smaller tanks are more versatile but may require more frequent refilling.

Air compressors can be powered by electricity, gasoline, or diesel. Electric compressors are suitable for indoor use and areas with easy access to electricity.

Gasoline and diesel compressors are ideal for remote worksites where electricity may not be available. For instance, gasoline and diesel machines are widely used in constructions and agriculture applications. 

Buying an air compressor is a significant investment that can open up a world of possibilities for driving air tools with unmatched power and longevity.

By considering factors such as intended use, the capacity and pressure requirements, tank size, power source, portability, and noise levels, you can select the right air compressor.

Proper maintenance and air treatment can ensure that your air tools last a lifetime, making air compressors a worthy investment. For more detailed information, you can get in touch with our experts today.

No, it does not. However after an install, you should power up the system from 0 to whatever the cut-off pressure is and check for any leaks that may be present.

In order to determine what size compressor will meet your requirements you need to establish how it will be used. For example, if you will be using it to power air tools, then you need to determine the CFM of each tool. There are many applications for air compressors. If you need help deciding which size is best for you, please contact Mi‑T‑M at 800-553- and we will be happy to assist you.

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Air pressure is determined by the highest minimum pressure requirement. For example, some tools consume more air than others. Tools such as pneumatic nail-guns and staplers consume smaller amounts of air, while air grinders and sprayers consume larger amounts. Most tools have an usage rating for CFM consumption at a recommended PSI. This can be found on the tool itself or in the owner's manual supplied by the tool manufacturer. Click here to view our Air Equipment Estimating Guide Link to Air Equipment Estimating Guide.

The notation CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) refers to a volume of air produced by the air compressor at a given pressure or PSI (Pound per Square Inch). The right size air compressor will meet your needs in two essential areas: air flow (CFM) and pressure (PSI). It's important to get a compressor that meets your needs in both areas - otherwise you risk damage to both your tools and the compressor itself. Always use CFM and PSI specifications from the nameplate on the product.

On a single stage pump the air is compressed one time and stored in a receiver. A two stage pump compresses the air twice, once in the first cylinder and then a second time in a smaller cylinder which gives you a higher CFM.

A reciprocating compressor is a very flexible piece of equipment but some cautions must be taken for an installation site selection. Refer to the instruction manual that is supplied with each unit. Some things to consider:

1. You need a level floor and vibration mounting pads are recommended
2. The compressor should be installed in a well ventilated room.
3. The compressor must have approximately a 24" clearance from the walls to allow for the designed air flow. This will also allow sufficient room for workmen to do normal scheduled maintenance.
4. The discharge line into the air system should not be smaller than the compressor discharge port size.
5. The shipping skid should NOT be used as part of the mounting base

No, this is not recommended as the compressor unit must not come in direct contact with the elements. The best practice is to either put a lean-to over the unit or install it in a small building. If installed under a lean-to, we recommend a TEFC motor and NEMA 12 electrical enclosures. Also, when necessary cold weather protection for the oil and other lubricants is recommended.

Yes, the higher air pressure will increase the amount of stored air. At 175 PSIG an 80 gallon tank will store 127 cu. ft. of air. The same 80 gallon tank at 100 PSIG will store only 73 cu. ft. of air.

No, this is not up to the approved code for compressed air systems. The PVC is an oil based product and it does not react properly to heat, vibrations and oil vapor that is carried in the air compressor discharge air. The PVC is prone to bursting under the normal air pressure and unit operations. Consult your local building inspector for piping recommendations.

We recommend using non detergent oils that has been formulated for use in reciprocating compressors. DO NOT USE DETERGENT OILS in the compressor. The detergent oils will foam and cause excessive oil carryover past the piston rings and will not provide the required lubricity for the moving parts.

For a Reciprocating air compressor, generally you would change the oil and the air filter approximately every 3 months. For a more accurate time frame, contact Mi‑T‑M at 800-553- with your air compressor model number and we will help you find the recommended schedule for your compressor.

Starter

The starter is a magnetic device that induces electricity into the motor windings to energize them for work. The starter gets its signal from the pressure switch.

Pressure Switch

It measures the cut in and cut out pressure bands for the compressor start and stop settings and either turns the motor on or off as needed.

After Cooler

An after cooler is a device that uses air flow to cool the compressor discharge air temperature prior to being put into the tank for storage. This cooling function will drop out moisture that is in the compressed air.

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