You have gotten around to doing DIY projects around the house and office. It’s taking longer than usual, because you’re doing almost everything manually. Yet you know, with a good air compressor, you can wrap up the job in minutes.

However, the process of finding the right compressor is quite challenging. There’s so much to consider in getting the one that will give you maximum efficiency. There’re also so many options available in the market with different offerings.

If you’re currently in this quagmire, you will want to read on for important qualities you need to consider when shopping for your compressor.

ESSENTIAL QUALITIES WHEN BUYING AN AIR COMPRESSOR

��������is a portable, lightweight tool with a wide range of uses. It’s an essential component for appliances that need a high volume of air in constant supply. You can also use it together with other tools within the home or work setting.

We’ll share with you the��key factors��you need to watch out for when buying a good air compressor.

1. YOU NEED TO CHOOSE BETWEEN A PORTABLE OR PISTON AIR COMPRESSOR

Piston compressors have a motor which promotes air pressure during depletion. The more you use it, the more the air pressure increases. You’ll need to factor in space for a tank which will keep it in one place. Piston compressors require heavy duty maintenance and are, therefore, best suited for commercial use.

There’re two basic types of piston air pressures, namely single and dual/two-stage compressors. The former will use only a single piston for the compression of air, and will therefore only be able to achieve a maximum of 150 PSI. You’ll require a higher CFM rating with a single stage because the air compression occurs every time there is a rotation.

The two-stage, on the other hand, uses the two pistons and can reach 200 PSI. You get better energy efficiency because it compresses any air that goes into the system immediately. An intercooler helps with the piping of the air before the final release. The two-stage will work well in commercial settings, which require constant air pressure supply

The portable compressors don’t have tanks; they are, therefore, easy to move about. It does not matter where you want to use it; you can simply carry it to the location. The portable ones will work well for light use, especially within the household. You get continuous air pressure without too much effort.

Price-wise the piston compressors are more expensive than portable ones.

2. CONSIDER THE CFM MEASUREMENT

One of the qualities of a good air compressor is The Cubic Feet per Minute or��. You determine it using the PSI range. Knowing the CFM is important because it’ll tell you how much pressure you’ll get from the air compressor per minute. If you need to power multiple tools in one go, you’ll need a higher CFM rating.

Do note, however, that there’re certain environmental factors which could impact on the CFM rating. These include altitude, temperature and humidity. Factors like friction, atmospheric pressure, and heat dissipation will have an impact on some, but not all air compressors.

3. WHAT SIZE DO YOU WANT?

When looking at air compressor options, you need to be clear about what your needs are. Will you use it in one location or will you need to move it from one place to another? If the former, you can set it in one place, and purchase long cords which will give you a larger degree of movement.

The shape of the tank will also determine how portable the compressor will be. Bulky tanks will be hard to move around. You’ll also need more space when using and storing the machine.

The tank size will also matter, and once again it comes down to the use you have in mind for the compressor. Heavy duty jobs will require bigger tanks, which will allow the air compressor to run for a longer time.

4. WHAT FEATURES DOES IT HAVE

One of the most important tips, when you’re researching on how to buy an air compressor, is to look at the features it has. We have already talked about CFM, portability, shape, and size. But you should also look for a compressor that has the following:-

• Multiple couplers will allow you to use many tools in one go.
• Belt drive will allow for quiet operations, something you’ll not get with the direct drive systems
• The oil-free pump will reduce the need for time-consuming maintenance, resulting in less money on taking care of the machine. You also don’t have to fear that the air and oil will mix
• The thermal protection will stop the motor anytime the machine overheats.
• Air cooling systems will help keep the machine cool thus preventing overheating
• A roll cage is good for protecting the compressor from damages when you’re moving or using it on-site
• Cord wrap will allow for easy carrying and storage of the power cord
• Ball valve drain will help you avoid condensation within the tank, by allowing you to drain the air tank anytime you need to. If you don’t do this, the tank will rust.
• ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) certification will show that the compressor has gone through third-party verification, on the quality of materials and craftsmanship.
• Other accessories include blowguns, nailers, inflation components among others

Do note though; you may not get all the features above in one machine. It’s therefore important that you list down what you absolutely cannot do without.

For example, the certification is important because it shows that you’re getting a high-quality air compressor. If you’re going to have the compressor in one location only, you may not need a roll cage.

Also, be aware that some of the features may impact on the overall cost of the compressor you buy.

NOW YOU UNDERSTAND THE ESSENTIALS

We have shared with you the four essentials you need to consider when buying an air compressor. Every professional has their specific requirements; depending on the kind of work they want to do with the compressor as well as the budget.

When shopping, do take note of the performance ratings, how energy-efficient the machine is, and if it allows you multiple functionalities. We have tons of information for��you here��to guide you in the buying process.

Consider this an investment that you only want to make once in a lifetime. Take your time before you opt for the best air compressor for you.

They’re especially well-known for their����and pump products, designed to work within a variety of industries and environments.

You’re in the market for a new GAST air compressor for your business. You know that you have two main options here: simplex vs duplex. You want to ensure that you make the right decision, and you’d like to learn a bit more about your options now.

You’ve come to the right place.

Keep on reading this post to learn everything that you need to know about Duplex vs Simplex air compressors. Then, you will learn where you can find��reliable, expert companies��that can connect you with the products your business needs.

What is a Duplex Air Ccompressor?

First of all, you need to understand what a duplex air compressor actually is.

We understand that you’re always on the lookout for ways to increase your company’s overall operating efficiency. A duplex air compressor is a wonderful way to make that happen.

A duplex air compressor is a type of two-stage air compressor. However, unlike most standard two-stage air compressors, a duplex option has two same-sized pumps and motors.

What’s the benefit of having this identical sets?

First of all, this means that you’ll always have a backup just in case one of the pumps or motors fails during operating hours. You can also rely on the other pump or motor to pick up the slack if one needs to be taken in for repair.

This way, you won’t run the risk of not being able to meet client expectations. In addition to hurting your company’s reputation? A failure to meet orders on time����can seriously eat into your profits.

Additionally, a duplex air compressor is an awesome alternative to three-phase electrical service.

Finally, we love the flexibility of air usage that a duplex air compressor has to offer. You might be working on a project that actually doesn’t require the dual pumps and motors.

If that’s the case, you can use just one of them. This way, you’ll preserve the machine’s efficiency.

The Benefits of a Duplex Air Compressor

Especially if you’re concerned with durability and efficiency, a duplex air compressor is likely the best option for you.

In most cases, compressors are made from steel, aluminum, and cast iron. This means that, even if the work environment is a bit tough, they’ll be able to function perfectly within it.

They’re also a good choice for companies that have a higher volume of orders, or just prefer to run at a high overall operating efficiency.

You’ll also enjoy the easy installation process of��GAST duplex air compressors. They come with an intuitive electric panel and require very little maintenance. The GAST options also come equipped with a pressure safety valve and a manual drain.

Additionally, we love the fact that the glove valve offers 100% oilless operation.

Now that you understand the benefits of full duplex mode, let’s take a look at simplex options.

What is a Simplex Air Compressor?

Let’s look at the former option in the simplex vs duplex decision.

Unlike a duplex air compressor, a simplex model will have only one pump and motor.

In most cases, the compressors��are mounted directly on the tank. These are generally useful for smaller operations, or for companies who don’t routinely need an air compressor.

The Benefits of a Simplex Air Compressor

There are many reasons why you might opt for a simplex air compressor as opposed to a duplex model.

In some cases, you might simply not need the power and output associated with a duplex compressor.

Additionally, simplex compressors are a bit quieter than duplex options, simply because they have one less pump and motor. Plus, simplex air compressors don’t need to be run continuously.

Another great feature of a Simplex air compressor?

It actually works to extend the overall pump lifespan by entering into cool-down periods. This means you can rest easy, knowing that your investment is working to protect itself.

Finally, especially depending on what your company does and the size of your workspace, you may be on the hunt for an air compressor that offers portability. Because it’s a bit smaller, a simplex compressor is the much more portable option.

This means that it will be suitable for offsite use if needed.

The GAST model, as with the duplex option, has a pressure safety valve, a gauge to read the pressure, and excellent unloading capacity. Additionally, it has a pressure switch and an operation that’s completely oilless.

Simplex VS Duplex: Which One Will You Choose?

We hope that this post has helped you to learn more about the differences between simplex vs duplex air compressors.

When you’re looking for the very best in��products from GAST��and other trusted manufacturers, we want you to be able to rely on us to get them.

We have 60 years of industry experience and can help you with everything from made-to-order solutions to standard motion and air control products.

We also offer installation services available on your schedule.

No matter what you need, let us help you to make sure you get it. Browse through our extensive inventory of products and parts, and always feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions.

We look forward to helping your business become a safer and more efficient place.

Choosing the right type of motor all depends on your use and environment. Electric motors are useful for small projects and DIY workshops. Air motors are great for factories, manufacturing facilities, and other industrial uses.

This article provides everything you need to know in order to decide between an air motor vs electric motor. Find out what the pros and cons are for each, and which is best for your needs.

Air Motor VS Electrical Motor

Choosing between an air motor vs electrical motor is a decision for industrial manufacturing facilities. The choice is often in regard to an industrial mixer. Industrial mixers churn a wide variety of liquids and chemicals for use in manufacturing processes.

When you are mixing a ten-thousand-gallon vat of liquid, it makes a big difference which kind of motor you are using. The torque, speed, energy efficiency, and mixing environment play key roles in determining which motor you should use.

The wrong motor will slow down the manufacturing process and cause inefficiencies on the work floor. The proper motor will speed up your process and improve overall operating performance.

To pick the right motor, consider the following features:

Applied Torque and Power Output

The greatest advantage of an air motor vs electrical motor is the torque. An air motor allows you to adjust the torque output depending on your needs. Air motors feature a dynamically generated torque load.

Electric motors get their power, either, from an Alternating Current (AC) or Direct Current (DC) motor. Electric motors are powered by a battery or a 12-volt electrical outlet plug. Some electric motors feature multiple speed settings, but the torque from the motor remains fixed.

Unlike an electrical motor, air motors increase or decrease motor torque to meet precise mixing requirements.

The most common types of air motors for industrial processes are a rotary vane motor and Gast air motor. These air motors create torque by varying the air pressure turning the motor. The more air that is let through, the faster the motor spins with less torque. As the pressure increases, the motor spins slower with more torque.

20 pounds-per-square-inch (psi) of air pressure produces about 2,500 revolution-per-minute (rpm) of the motor. This creates about one horsepower of output. The maximum horsepower output for most air motors is around 4. To spin the motor at the same rpm rate, the motor increases the psi to 100.

An electric motor does not have this versatility. If the torque is overloaded the motor simply jams and is often damaged. An air motor compensates for increased torque requirements with more air pressure until the need is met.

Energy Efficiency

Electric motors are more efficient than air motors. An electric motor provides air pressure directly to the sealed motor box. An air motor relies on external air compression that travels to the motor box.

Air motors require tubes, elbows, and fittings that leach little bits of air. Even with these small decreases in efficiency, air motors provide many times the output power as electric motors. The additional power, however, comes at the expense of less energy efficiency.

The energy efficiency of an air motor vs electrical motor makes a big difference for a business’s bottom line. The additional  of an air motor can end up costing a business around $1,500 extra as opposed to an electrical motor. Overall, an air motor can experience around a  in energy efficiency.

Precision Speed Control

The speed at which your motor can run is variable on an air motor. By increasing air pressure to the motor the speed and torque respond in kind. Electric motors only offer a feature for variable speed control at an upcharge.

Air motors work to produce precision results with every use. You can count on the same production quality over the lifecycle of the motor. Electric motors are not as reliable and will decrease in efficiency, over time.

Environmental Factors

One of the biggest considerations to make in your air motor vs electrical motor decision is the environment in which you mean to use it. Some environments are hazardous for electrical motors. Air motors are the first choice when working in an environment where corrosion could take place.

The design of electrical motors ensures that the units are explosion-proof. This casing requires motor housing to be placed very tightly together, with little room between parts. The casing of these motors ends up collecting moisture and corroding the moving parts of your electrical motor.

An air motor is reliant on pressurized air, instead of moving parts. Air motors are safe to use in wet environments. Electric motors need environmentally controlled housing if they are to be used outdoors.

Motor Size and Unit Weight

The size of your motor depends on the unit it powers. Air motors are much lighter than electrical motors and easier to transport.

Electric motors include a power source and motor housing all in one unit. Since air motors connect to an external power source, they are much lighter and easier to relocate. And, the power output of an air motor produces more horsepower than that of its electric counterpart.

Final Thoughts

If your torque and power requirements are variable, an air motor is the right choice. On the other hand, electrical motors are much more energy efficient, but at a loss of versatility.

The only reason you benefit from an electrical motor is if your usage is static and environment controlled.

If you like this article on how to choose an air motor vs electrical motor, share it on social media. And subscribe to the newsletter to receive the most recent posts about engineering and manufacturing.

The food industry uses a process called High-Pressure Pasteurization (HPP) to clean and preserve food. High-Pressure Pasteurization utilizes ultra-high pressures (86,000 psi) to destroy pathogens without applying heat that can damage the taste, texture and nutritional value of the food. HPP results in the almost complete retention of nutritional and sensory characteristics of fresh food without sacrificing shelf-life. The advantages of HPP over traditional thermal processing include reduced process times; minimal heat damage problems; extended retention of freshness, flavor, texture, and color; and no vitamin C loss.��Many food manufacturers are using this process to offer healthier products to their customers.

Water jets are widely used to cut materials.��Often the water jet industry requires pressures of over 60,000 psi. Water jets make precisions cuts in materials that include metal, cloth or even concrete. Regardless of the industry, high-pressure applications require critical safety designs.

The designers and users of these systems must be trained to specify and use fittings, valves and tubing that can withstand these critical applications and ensure the safety of those using these machines.

Safety

• In order to guarantee a quality welded tube system, welders require extensive training, experience and certification. Additional certifications may be required to work in specific environments and other countries. CPI fitting installation techniques can be taught in a single, short class.
• Welds must be pressure tested and X-rayed to ensure they are properly done. CPI joins can be quickly checked with an installation gauge to ensure proper makeup.

Service

• Welding is a permanent attachment method. Once a weld is made the part must be damaged or destroyed to disassemble it.��In order to service a component in a welded system, the tube must be cut or unions must be added. CPI systems allow components to be serviced by breaking the lines at the existing fittings.
• CPI has a Molybdenum Disulfide-coated nut with fine pitch threads. That ensures no galling during fitting makeup.

Savings

• Save the time that it takes to properly train, certify and maintain required yearly paperwork of welders.
• Save inventory by stocking fittings instead of gases, welding machines and equipment.
• Save on installation time with CPI fittings compared to welding.

To set up a training class or for more information, contact Ģ����Ƶ today.

Compression fittings��are designed to be used with process tubing.��These fittings are normally used in applications that have pressures less than 10,000 PSI. Common materials include stainless steel, brass and steel.��They are also available in some exotic materials. Compression fittings are the most commonly used connection due to its ease of use.��Compression fittings are also easy to break and re-make multiple times. The cost of assembly is less expensive than the next two types of fittings.

Cone and Thread fittings��are used with high pressure tubing that is coned and threaded.��This type of fitting is used in applications that range from 10,000 PSI to 150,000 PSI. Stainless steel fittings are common due to the high pressure requirements. Since cone and thread fitting are available in various pressure ranges, you need to carefully select the fitting and tubing that matches your application. Coning and threading is a timely process, so the overall cost of installing these fittings is higher than that of a compression fitting.

Butt weld and socket weld fittings��are used when you want to permanently join the fitting and tubing through a welding process. Welded fittings, when properly installed, offer a high integrity seal and better resistance to vibration.��The disadvantage is the installation cost due to the equipment requirements and the cost of a certified welder. Stainless steel materials are commonly used in welded process lines.

Plastic fittings��are used in low pressure (normally air) applications. These fittings are typically used with copper or plastic tubing. These fittings are easy to install and reasonably priced.��One exception is the PFA or PTFE fittings which have a higher price point. These polyfluoromer fittings are recommended for acid or solvent applications because of their excellent media compatibility.

Choosing the correct fitting isn’t hard, you just need to have the right parameters and requirements for your individual application. When in doubt, call and talk to one of our experts.