Things To Consider When Choosing A Rotary Screw Air Compressor

Rotary screw compressors are the most frequent choice for situations where you need a continuous duty cycle. If you're not familiar, a continuous duty cycle means that the compressor can run non-stop. They rely on male and female rotors working together to compress air. If you're in the market for a new compressor that will hold up to the intense demand that a high-traffic production environment can require, rotary screw compressors are a great option. Here's a look at what you should know about choosing your new compressor.

What Kind of Rotary Compressor Should You Choose?

There are several factors that you'll need to consider when you're looking for a rotary screw air compressor. If you've never shopped for one before, though, there are a few things that are likely unfamiliar to you. Understanding these two features will help you to make a more educated choice before you invest.

• Consider the Power Phase - Think about what power you have available for the compressor. While many commercial buildings have three-phase power available, some are wired on standard single-phase power supplies. Have an electrician evaluate your building and determine what kind of wiring you have available so that you can choose a compressor with the proper phase and voltage requirement. Unlike standard compressors that typically function solely on single-phase power, there are many rotary screw compressors that depend on three-phase power to function. Make sure that you consider this before selecting the model for your shop.

• Evaluate the Air Demand – Because rotary screw air compressors can run constantly, you won't have to worry about tank capacity. You will, however, have to think about the actual air flow. Consider the air requirement in both volume and pressure for the application. Most industrial machines have plaques attached that clearly define the air volume and pressure requirements. Check this data for each piece of equipment that you're buying a compressor for. That way, you can narrow down your compressor options to just the ones that produce enough air pressure and volume to keep the equipment running at a sufficient capacity.

When it comes to ensuring the reliability and sustainability of your equipment and your rotary screw compressor, it may be best to consult a compressor specialist for more advice. He or she can evaluate your operation, assess all of the equipment as well as your power source, and then provide you with a professional analysis of which types of compressors would be the best fit.