How to Choose an Industrial Air Compressor

Are you in the market for an industrial air compressor? If so, you may be feeling overwhelmed by the many options available. Choosing the right compressor for your needs can be a daunting task, but fear not! In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision.

The first step in choosing an industrial air compressor is to determine your specific needs. Ask yourself the following questions:

  • What will I be using the compressor for?
  • How much air pressure do I need?
  • How much air volume do I require?
  • What is my compressed air use profile?
  • What quality of compressed air do I need?
  • What available space do I have?
  • What is my available power?


By answering these questions, you can narrow down your options and find a compressor that meets your requirements.


When it comes to power source, you have a few options to choose from. Electric compressors are popular due to their ease of use and low maintenance requirements. They are also quieter than their gas-powered counterparts. However, if you need to operate the compressor in a remote location or in an area without access to electricity, a gas-powered compressor such as a piston compressor or a portable compressor may be the better choice. Consider your specific circumstances and choose accordingly.


The next most important factor to consider is the durability and reliability of your compressed air system. How much would loss of production cost you if there was a breakdown? As well as choosing equipment that has a high reliability factor, good system design ensures reliable production. Look for a compressor that is made with high-quality materials and has a solid reputation for performance. Read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the compressor's longevity and reliability. Remember, you want a compressor that will stand the test of time and provide you with reliable performance for years to come. Consider partnering with a company that has the expertise to provide good system design.


Now, let's talk about maintenance. Like any piece of equipment, an industrial air compressor requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Look for a compressor that is easy to maintain and has readily available replacement parts. This will save you time and money in the long run. Regular maintenance will also prolong the life of your compressor and ensure optimal performance.


Once these questions have been answered, it is now time to consider savings made through system efficiency. Are there opportunities for energy recovery? Is a multiple-compressor design the best choice? When should a speed drive compressor be chosen and when shouldn't one be chosen? What is the optimal receiver sizing? How do you minimize pressure drop across air treatment equipment?


Finally, consider the price of the compressor. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option available, it's important to remember that quality comes at a price. Investing in a high-quality compressor may cost more upfront, but it will pay off in the long run. A reliable and durable compressor will save you money on repairs and replacements down the line. Make sure you factor in the costs of maintenance, power, and potential production loss when considering the price of a compressor. If the upfront cost of a compressor is outside of your budget, consider leasing a compressor through PSL Total Air (you can read more about our lease options here).


To sum it all up, choosing an industrial air compressor requires careful consideration of your specific needs, the power source, durability and reliability, maintenance requirements, and price. By taking the time to research and evaluate your options, you can find the perfect compressor for your needs. If you're still not sure where to start, feel free to reach out to our dedicated and knowledgeable sales team and they'll be happy to guide you through the process.


A Kaeser i.CF10 Aquamat
By Tyla Saunders May 1, 2025
In our modern world, environmental protection has become more than just a corporate buzzword; it's a genuine priority for businesses that want to do their part for a sustainable future. Many of our customers are actively seeking ways to make their production processes as eco-friendly as possible. One small but powerful action you can take is proper condensate treatment . By managing your condensate correctly, you prevent harmful oil and dirt from entering our waterways, helping preserve the environment for future generations. In this blog, we'll explore what condensate is, why its disposal is a concern, and how Kaeser’s innovative i.CF Aquamat system offers a smart, efficient solution. What is condensate? When air is compressed, moisture from the air naturally condenses into water, and that's where condensate comes from. While it might look harmless, condensate typically carries contaminants like oil residues, dirt particles, and sometimes heavy metals. Left untreated, even small amounts can have serious impacts on the environment. Due to the risk of water pollution, strict environmental regulations prevent businesses from releasing untreated condensate into drainage or sewage systems. That means proper management isn't just a good idea, it’s a legal requirement. What does an Aquamat do? Kaeser’s new i.CF Aquamat range makes condensate treatment easy, effective, and smart. These units are equipped with intelligent controllers that continuously monitor condensate levels. When the condensate reaches its maximum limit, the system triggers a short, controlled burst of compressed air, pushing the liquid through special filter cartridges. Here’s what happens next: Purified water exits the system and is safe to pour into standard drainage systems. Oil and contaminants remain trapped inside the filter cartridges, ready for safe, easy disposal with no direct contact with hazardous waste. This hands-free, automated process ensures environmental compliance without disrupting your daily operations. What are the benefits? The i.CF Aquamat range offers multiple advantages, making it a smart investment for any business: Environmental protection: By treating your condensate before release, you actively prevent harmful toxins from polluting waterways. Cost savings: Since you're safely releasing most of your condensate and only disposing of the small amount of captured waste, you can save up to 90% on disposal costs. Maintenance efficiency: The smart controller sends an alert when servicing is needed, helping you avoid unnecessary maintenance costs and downtime. Modular flexibility: Every model in the i.CF Aquamat range uses the same filter cartridges. That means scaling up or adapting your system is simple and cost-effective as your business grows. Why it matters Treating condensate properly isn’t just about compliance, it’s about responsibility. Every step we take to minimise industrial waste contributes to a healthier planet. With solutions like the i.CF Aquamat, businesses can meet environmental obligations, save money, and feel good knowing they’re part of the solution, not the problem. Ready to find out more about how you can treat your condensate safely and sustainably? Get in touch with our team today, we’re here to help you make a difference.
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Pressure drop occurs every time a filter is put in the line, a dryer is installed, or pipework is run. Having pressure drop across these items means your compressor needs to run at a higher pressure to achieve the required down-stream pressure. You may not realise that a 1 bar increase in compressor pressure equates to a 6% increase in energy consumption. This is money that doesn't need to be wasted. To avoid energy loss from pressure drop, the following points should be considered when designing or replacing a compressed air system: Filters: Every filter installed in the line increases pressure drop. Keep filters to a minimum - but make sure they are the right size and grade. Refrigeration dryers: Refrigeration dryers, especially the cheaper ones, can have quite a high pressure drop - check the value before making the decision. Timing: The most economical time to get your pipework the right size is when it's being installed. It will normally cost about the same amount of labour to go a size larger.
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