Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
There are an extensive variety of applications that utilize low-pressure technologies, including wastewater treatment, pneumatic conveying, food and beverage, and cement plants. Given that each application has unique nuances and requirements, it makes sense that businesses will place weight on different purchasing factors when determining which type of low-pressure blower will best suit their needs!
What Things Should I Consider?
A thorough analysis of your installation and application is key to selecting the right technology, and there will undoubtedly be one or more aspects might take precedence over others. For example, a smaller space for the blower might dictate choosing a technology with a smaller footprint and lower noise levels, while an application that requires lower energy costs may be best suited for an energy-efficient technology that has a higher initial cost. Key factors that should be taken into consideration include:
- Flow and Pressure
- Application conditions
- Initial capital cost vs. greatest ROI
- Operating noise levels
- Service and lifetime support
- Reliability
- Efficiency
- Maintenance requirements
- Space limitations
- Installation requirements and cost
Common Technology Comparisons
There are many types of low-pressure technologies available on the market, including lobe, screw, centrifugal, and multistage. Figuring out which one is most ideal for your application can be overwhelming! Below we provide some technology comparisons that often arise when weighing one technology against another.
Lobe vs. Screw. A lobe blower (also called a Roots blower) is a traditional and reliable technology that offers low initial capital cost. Screw blowers, in comparison, offer greater reliability, high turn down, and superior energy efficiency for a greater ROI.
Multistage vs. Turbo. Multistage blowers are best for specialist applications and offer an industry standard performance. Turbo or turbo-multistage blowers, however, are a combined technology configuration that provides reliable, market leading performance for varying air demands for the lowest lifecycle cost and ultimate energy efficiency.
VSD Options. Over 80% of a blower’s lifecycle cost is taken up by the energy it consumes. Moreover, the generation of compressed air can account for more than 40% of a plant’s total electricity bill. Selecting a Variable Speed Drive technology can lead to major energy savings while also helping protect the environment for future generations.
