An air compressor is a tool that is extremely necessary to have in an industrial setting. The air compressor is responsible for converting power into potential energy. Air compressors can do anything from speeding up a nail or staple gun project to inflating numerous items.
There are so many different air compressor systems out there that are used for specific needs. Because there are so many to choose from, it can seem overwhelming when you go to pick one out.
Before choosing a form of compressed air distribution, there are some questions you should ask yourself prior to taking the plunge. Here are a few questions to ask yourself regarding air compressors and air compressor piping.
How Often Do You Plan on Using the Compressor?
If you own a business such as an auto body shop, there are many uses for which an air compressor will be required. For instance, if a customer comes in with a flat tire, you will need something to aid in pumping it back up. Before picking out a specific air compressor for your business, consider how much you're actually going to use it. If you own an auto body shop, you're most likely going to be using it fairly often. However, keep in mind that any air tool you have that requires a larger air consumption will require a larger compressed air distribution system.
What Will You be Using the Air Compressor For?
Figuring out what you will be using the air compressor for is key. Each air compressor works for a specific application. For example, if you're using a small one-person tool, you'd require a portable air compressor. If you're working with an application that requires constant volumes of air, you would need to have a rotary screw air compressor. Rotary screw air compressors are able to constantly stay running without timing out.
What Are Your Future Plans?
As a business owner, the thought of expansion is constantly lingering in your head. If you do plan to expand your company in the future, you will need more and more air compressors. However, thinking about whether you're going to expand or not well ahead of time will help you in the long run. If you do decide that you will be expanding 10 years down the road, your money will be best spent on purchasing a larger air compressor now as you won't have to spend money in the future to upgrade. However, if you don't plan on expanding, sticking with the air compressor sizes that you find yourself needing now is the best move. According to energy audits from the U.S. Department of Energy, 50% of compressed air systems for small to medium-sized facilities have energy conservation opportunities that come at a low cost.
When thinking about purchasing air compressors for your company, consider the tips above to make the process a bit easier and less overwhelming. Also, keep in mind what kind of air compressor tubes your compressor has. Functioning air compressor tubes are necessary for your compressor to work efficiently. If you purchase an air compressor but notice that the air compressor tubes are malfunctioning, replace them immediately to prevent any further issues.