Air Compressor Parts Guide: What They Do and How to Maintain Them

Knowing what each air compressor part does and how it fails isn’t just technical knowledge; it saves time, cuts service costs, and keeps you off the maintenance call list. This guide cuts through the clutter. You’ll spot warning signs faster, choose between OEM and generic parts with confidence, and keep your equipment running without surprises.

Let’s break down the components that keep your compressed air system functioning at peak performance:

1. Compressor pump
   • The system's major component is the compressor pump. It pulls in outside air and squeezes it to the level your system needs. How well it does that, how fast, how much power it takes depend entirely on the pump type. Centrifugal. Reciprocating. Rotary screw. If that pump slips up, expect poor airflow or a full stop.    
2. Air filters 
   • Air filters catch the grime before it gets into your system. Dust, dirt, metal bits, without a good filter, they clog the internals and wear everything down faster. Atlas Copco’s filters are built to handle that job properly, built for longer life and steady output.
3. Pressure switch & regulators 
   • The regulator maintains constant output pressure to your tools, while the pressure switch regulates the motor's start/stop cycle.  If something goes wrong here, your entire line may perform poorly or pose a safety risk.
4. Lubrication system
   • In oil-lubricated compressors, the lubrication system minimizes friction and overheating. Using substandard oil can compromise internal components. Always choose genuine compressor oil and lubricants for the best results.
5. Hoses and fitting 
   • These deliver air to your pneumatic instruments.  Poorly attached connections and hose leaks or cracks are frequent causes of pressure decreases and decreased efficiency.
6. Storage tank (air receiver)
   • Compressed air is stored in air receiver tanks, which also regulates pressure changes.  In order to preserve system consistency and safeguard downstream equipment, proper size and routine inspections are essential.

Failing parts don’t always lead to an immediate shutdown, but the warning signs are there and easy to spot. Watch for:

• Inconsistent pressure: Failing parts don’t always lead to an immediate shutdown—but the warning signs are there. 
• Pressure swings: Could be a bad valve, faulty switch, or regulator gone off track.
• Overheating: That usually points to old seals, weak lubrication, or filters packed with debris.
• Too loud: Knocking, rattling—those sounds often trace back to loose belts, bad bearings, or something off with the valves.
• Oil leaks: Oil showing up where it shouldn’t? Gaskets or seals are likely failing.
• High energy consumption: Energy bills creeping up? Look at internal wear or pressure losses from hidden leaks.

Atlas Copco’s Fixed Price Service gets a tech on it fast—no guesswork, no unexpected costs. Just straight fixes.

When it's time to replace parts, choosing between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket compressor parts impacts reliability, efficiency, and long-term cost. 

Atlas Copco offers advanced validation tools, such as QR code verification, to ensure you're getting the real deal—not counterfeit spares.

• Lower upfront costs, but may void warranties
• Generic specifications can lead to performance mismatch and premature failure
• Inconsistent quality and risk of increased energy use

While aftermarket compressor parts may seem budget-friendly, the long-term risks of downtime, inefficiency, and higher operating costs usually outweigh the savings.

Regular air compressor maintenance and choosing genuine parts are the most effective ways to ensure efficiency, reliability, and cost savings over the life of your equipment.