The Different Types of Air Compressors

Different Types of Air Compressors

Air compressors are tools that are very commonly used at construction sites where major projects take place. There are different types of air compressors available on the market that you can choose from. By looking at the different types of air compressors you will be able to narrow down your options and choose the right one to suit your particular project needs.

There are two different types of air compressor fittings or categories of air compressors. These would be positive displacement and dynamic displacement.

Here are the four types of air compressors that you will learn more about:

Rotary Screw Compressor
Reciprocating Air Compressor
Axial Compressor
Centrifugal Compressor

We will discuss each one of these types of air compressors so that you will know more about how they work.

Table of Contents

Positive Displacement Compressors

Positive displacement compressors describe a group of types of air compressors that make use of power with air displacement.

The internal mechanisms of these types of air compressors are quite different from the others, but they still operate the same as models of different types.

There is a cavity that is on the inside of these compressors which stores the outside air and compresses the cavity slowly in order to increase the pressure of air and energy.

Rotary Screw Compressors

A rotary displacement compressor is another type of air compressor that is commonly used.

These air compressors are the most desirable because they are fairly easy to maintain.

There is an internal cooling system on the inside of them which allows for no overheating. These air compressors are usually larger in size so they work great for industrial purposes. You can check out many different air compressor oil types to use with the oil rotary compressors. Keep in mind that some models don’t require oil at all.

Reciprocating Compressors

Reciprocating air compressor type in air conditioner is the 3rd type of compressor to be discussed. These air compressors are generally the ones you will find at smaller work sites like garages or for home projects.

This compressor is also one that is designed for continuous use which makes it the opposite of the rotary air compressors.
Reciprocating compressors are a bit more complex because they have more parts involved in operating.
These types of air compressors also use oil for the purpose of lubricating the parts for a smoother operation.
A piston-cylinder plays a huge role in the operation of these air compressors.
The compress and displace the air in order for pressure to build up. They are available in single and multi-stage types.
The single and multi-stage options have different levels of pressure range, so you are able to choose accordingly to your needs.

So basically if you need more power then you will use a multi-stage compressor, but if you don’t require as much power then a single-stage air compressor should work out for your needs just fine.

Dynamic Compressors

Last but certainly not least, another one of the types of air compressors that are available on the market is the Dynamic Air compressors.

These generate a horsepower by drawing in air rapidly with the rotating blades which in return restricts the air pressure being brought in.

The energy that it brings in is store inside of the compressor.