High-pressure air compressors are used in a variety of applications, such as firefighting, scuba diving, and military and industrial operations.
In this guide, we will explore:
There are many different types of air compressors. A common denominator amongst all of them is PSI or BAR metrics. This is how we measure the “strength” of a compressor.
Unit of pressure that measures the force exerted on one square inch of surface area.
Unit of pressure equal to 100,000 pascals, roughly equivalent to 14.5 PSI.
A standard “household” air compressor is often used for applications such as drill and nail guns, impact wrenches, sanders, inflating tires, and more. These typically have between 90-200 PSI.
Conversely, a high-pressure air compressor has a lot more power. It can compress air as high as 7000 PSI.
High-pressure industrial and breathing air compressors operate through a multi-stage compression process to achieve necessary high pressures.
Initially, ambient air is drawn into the compressor. The air is then compressed in stages, with each stage followed by cooling to dissipate heat generated during compression. This cooling is essential, as it helps maintain efficiency and prevents overheating of the compressor components.
The air is compressed to pressures as high as 7000 PSI, making it suitable for various applications, including firefighting, military operations, and industrial processes.
In addition to compression, the air undergoes purification to meet stringent quality standards, particularly for breathing air applications. After the final compression stage, moisture separators and filters remove any contaminants, ensuring that the compressed air is clean and safe for use.
High-pressure air compressors play a crucial role in providing breathing air for various applications, particularly in environments where a reliable source of clean, pressurized air is essential for safety and performance. This includes:
All breathing air compressors must meet stringent air standards set by C.G.A (Compressed Gas Association), and the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association).
Within the industrial space, there are many common uses for high-pressure air compressors. These applications include:
Compressors often come in two frame types: enclosed or open frame.
An enclosed frame compressor offers the functionality of an open frame compressor in a nicer-looking, quieter, and smaller footprint build.
Built in a block-over motor configuration, these models take up less floor space and are enclosed in a sound-dampening cabinet. Quiet operation makes these compressors well suited for use in manned shops where noise is a concern.
The availability of additional features such as a built-in electronic CO monitor and larger standard internal filtration wrap everything you need into one functional design.
An open frame compressor has all the necessary features and none of the frills.
In general, the unit will have a base and frame, with open sides and front. Open frame compressors have a slightly larger footprint as they are normally a side-by-side motor and block build. Additional filtration can be wall or stand-mounted if desired. Because they are open framed, they are fairly louder than their enclosed counterparts.
There are many factors you should consider when purchasing a high-pressure air compressor, including volume needs, time to install, and noise levels.
When beginning your evaluation of what type of compressor you need, answer the following questions:
Not sure about some of these questions? Our team is here to help.
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