Selecting the right compressor can be cumbersome as there are many factors to consider. A logical start is your application that determines the required pressure, flow and air quality. But are you also considering your operation and organization? Number of operators, working sites, utilization rate, required transport and storage can all determine which compressor is the best fit for your need.
Flow and pressure needs
Your application will determine the pressure and flow that is required. This demand can vary over time. A compressor where you can easily change the pressure can avoid the need to bring in another compressor when the air demand changes.
Required air quality
The quality of your end product is the protection of your reputation. Applications from paint spraying to pipeline cleaning can be impacted by particles or moisture in compressed air. In addition, high temperature can also damage your application. Make sure to check quality air features like:
- filters
- aftercoolers
Available space on site
Size matters. Free space is valuable, certainly on a construction site.
Several compressors can provide the flow and pressure you need for your application, but they can greatly vary in size. In addition, a foldable towbar further decreases the footprint once on site.
Also access to the site can be limited, for example:
- Equipment needs to fit on a small lorry for transportation in a metro tunnel
- higher floors can only be accessed by an elevator
- For an indoor application, the compressor should be able to pass through doors (limited width and / or height)
- Limited maneuvering space on site
Boost the versatility of your equipment with the right additional features
When configuring your compressor, think about options that can improve your efficiency.
- when you have extra (small) power needs on your site, a compressor with integrated generator eliminates the need to bring in an addtional generator
- Operators often use other smaller equipment that can easy get lost on sites. An integrated toolbox is convenient for easy, quick and safe storage, for example of a handheld breaker
Ventilation requirements
When working in closed off or underground environments (for example tunneling projects or mining applications), ventilation costs can be reduced by selecing an electric compressor instead of a diesel driven compressor.
Electric compressor's aren't only exhaust-free, they are also quieter to operate. Another benefit when running your compressors indoor.
Transportation & mobility
Mobile compressors are designed to be deployed in various locations: from urban construction sites to remote pipelines. The way you want to transport your compressor affects your choice.
Type of transport
Compressor transported by truck
A well balanced lifting beam will avoid the compressor from unexpected movements during lifting
Compressor integrated on a utility vehicle
Service organisations often prefer to integrate a compressor on their vehicles, along with other equipment. Most mobile compressors can also be mounted on a support but for optimal integration, make sure to check for the best footprint, weight as well as accesbility. Consider the compressor will need to be operated and serviced after integration as well.
Towing a mobile compressor
Compressors up to 750 kg, can be towed without the need for a special driver's licence.
Frequency of transport
There are mobile compressors that change location every day, other remain stationary for several months. When you have a high transport frequency, make sure to ask which features improve transport efficiency.
