Oilless Air Compressors

Written By Steve Thompson

As technology increases the efficiency of various machinery, business owners and managers are turning to equipment that requires less maintenance and increases productivity. One example of this is the rising demand for oilless air compressors, which are available in a wide variety of models.

Essentially, oilless air compressors use an impeller, which is a simple rotating disc, to force gas through the machine, after which a diffuser creates gas pressure. No oil lubricants are required for operation, and these compressors are considered more reliable, which means that they can be used in industries in which continuous pressurized gas is required. They're also essential in applications where completely clean air is required.

Benefits of oilless air compressors
One of the main complaints that business owners have about air compressors to begin with is the high maintenance costs. The large number of moving parts means a high risk of the machine breaking down, resulting in lost productivity and potentially exorbitant repair bills. When using the oilless models, however, you cut the moving parts nearly in half, resulting in less maintenance.

Furthermore, the oilless design of these compressors means that the gas that is released through the machine is not contaminated with microscopic oil particles that can contaminate valuable equipment. Paint and glue, for example, can be damaged and weakened by these particles. And air output from compressors used in food or medical industries must be 100% free of oil to ensure the safety of the final product.

In some cases, although these compressors are more costly than other types, they are generally more energy-efficient, meaning reduced costs over time. They also have a higher airflow velocity, increasing production for your business and subsequently increasing profit potential.

Drawbacks
Of course, oil less air compressors are not perfect for every type of business, and they do have a few drawbacks that should be continued before you switch over entirely. For example, these compressors are designed for continuous use, and can surge if they are throttled below minimum velocity, resulting in necessary maintenance. This can be avoided if you require continuous effort from the machine, but it isn't recommended for businesses that use compressed air sporadically.

Additionally, these compressors are larger than other types, which means that you will need to reserve more space in your business for their storage. This isn't a problem if you operate a large facility where you can allocate a significant amount of space for all types of machinery, but might be a problem for smaller enterprises.

Making the choice
When deciding whether or not to go with an oilless air compressor, talk to other business owners in your industry. This is often the best way to gauge the effectiveness of machinery, and may save you thousands of dollars down the road. Alternatively, if you have multiple compressors in your operations, you might try using just one oilless compressor so you can compare efficiency.

The best compressor dealers should be able to talk you through this decision, helping you decide if oilless is the right choice for your situation. BuyerZone can help you find qualified air compressor dealers in your area. Fill out a free air compressor quote request and receive free price quotes from multiple suppliers in your area.