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Choosing an Air Compressor

Air compressors come in a wide variety of power and technology.

Do you need a constant speed compressor? Variable speed? What size? How many? These are some of the questions our team of specialists can help you with to find the solution that's right for your needs.

STATIONARY

California:
David Groleau

DAGroleau@petersonpower.com
510-508-2488

PORTABLE

Oregon:
Eric Plebuch
EPPlebuch@petersonpower.com

541-501-2696

PORTABLE

California:
Dana Mauch
Demauch@petersonpower.com
510.332.2461

VARIABLE VERSUS CONSTANT

Variable speed compessors are more energy efficient than constant speed because they adjust to the demand for compressed air. For example, if you have a compressor that you're running at 50% capacity, you're still paying for 85% of the full load energy consumption.

LESS IS MORE

Variable speed also makes sense if you anticipate your need for compressed air may grow. A single variable speed 100 hp compressor is much more efficient that four standard 25 hp units. When it comes to compressors, fewer is better. The fewer you have, the better the system will operate and the less you will pay for maintenance and energy.

 

SIZING IT RIGHT

If you're opting for constant speed, then sizing your unit properly can help save dollars. The majority of facilities run their compressed air systems at the highest pressure possible, typically 125 psi. Most equipment only needs 90 to 100 psi. A typical ¼ hp hand tool requires 2 hp worth of compressed air for standard operation.

Every 10 psi increase boosts energy consumption by 5 percent – a needless expenditure. There may be cases in which you do want some margin, but a 5 psi margin is adequate for a 100 psi system. A storage system may provide the necessary margin.

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SIZE IT RIGHT

Contact us today for assistance in selecting the right air compressor for your needs.