Air Compressor Guide
Not sure which compressor type is right for your application? This guide covers the fundamentals — types, duty cycles, sizing, and how to choose.
Browse compressor product linesPiston vs. Rotary Screw
The two most common industrial compressor types. Your choice depends on duty cycle, noise tolerance, and budget.
Industrial Piston
Rotary Screw
Compressor Types Explained
Reciprocating Piston Compressors
Piston (reciprocating) compressors use a piston driven by a crankshaft to compress air. They're the most common type for intermittent-use applications with a 70% duty cycle — meaning they run 70% of the time and rest 30%.
Advantages
- Lower upfront cost
- Simple, proven technology
- Easy to maintain and repair
- Ideal for intermittent use (auto shops, woodworking)
- Available in single-phase power
Considerations
- 70% duty cycle (not continuous)
- Higher noise levels
- More vibration
- Lower CFM per HP
How to Size a Compressor
Choosing the right compressor starts with understanding your air demand. Here's the process:
- 1
Calculate total CFM demand
Add up the CFM requirements of every air tool and process that might run simultaneously. Add a 20–30% safety margin.
- 2
Determine duty cycle
If your tools run intermittently (auto shop, woodworking), a piston compressor at 70% duty cycle works. For continuous manufacturing, you need a rotary screw.
- 3
Check your power supply
Piston units are available in single-phase (115V/230V). Most rotary screw compressors require 3-phase power (230V/460V).
- 4
Consider future growth
Size for where you'll be in 3–5 years. It's far cheaper to buy slightly larger now than to replace a unit later.
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