Air compressors are used in a variety of tasks in both professional and private workshops. Compressors are easy to maintain and do not require a complex engine to run correctly. This makes them an attractive option to power specific tools. Air compressors can also be used in creative ways like clearing out a blocked pipe or quickly inflating a pool toy.
If you are interested in buying an air compressor, continue reading for a brief overview of the various kinds and their applications.
Compressors Versus Pumps
First, pumps are not the same as compressors. Compressors involve the use of air to create energy for accomplishing specific tasks. Pumps are utilized when liquid needs to be moved from one place to another.
The Two Categories of Compressors
At their most basic level, air compressors take in air and force it out at high pressures. But there are several ways this can be accomplished.
For industrial applications and large-scale production, dynamic displacement is commonly used. To generate compression, blades rotate within the tank to draw air, which is then compressed in some manner. If you are interested in an air compressor for your shop, this probably is not right for you. If your business needs a compressed air service, this method is excellent for large-scale applications.
The other method for air compression is positive displacement. Many small compression systems fall under this category. The general idea is that air is kept in a vacuum that continuously increases to build pressure. If you purchase a compressor for your shop, it most likely uses positive displacement. However, there are positive displacement air compressors that are suitable for large-scale workloads as well.
It’s very likely your shop, or industrial business could benefit from an air compressor. Try out a few different models to determine the appropriate power level and portability for your situation.