Jobsite compressors: Does size matter?

Does size matter? Yes, it matters when it comes to matching the right compressor to the job.

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Jobsite compressors: Does size matter? #1
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Does size matter? Yes, it matters when it comes to matching the right compressor to the job. There's no "one size fits all" answer.
When it comes to matching the compressor to the job, there are three things to keep in mind:
Know the compressor's capacity. That sounds basic, but it's critical because if the compressor is not large enough to do the job, the user will be constantly waiting for it to recover. That can be more than a little frustrating. And, as a result, you may find several compressors on a jobsite when the same job might be done with only one — if you start with the right one. Multiple lines off a single compressor might be a viable alternative, which can cut down on clutter and noise on a jobsite.Know the air tool requirements. When choosing a compressor, the most important thing to know is what the compressor is to be used for. It is essential to review all the cfm and psi requirements of the tools it will be expected to run, and how many of them it will be expected to run at the same time. If the compressors under consideration fall short of these requirements, they can cause damage to a tool or at the very least, the tool won't work properly. The result is another unhappy customer.Know where the compressor will be used. It is important to know if the compressor is going to be run inside or outside. This will help determine if you need a gasoline-powered compressor or an electric model. Building codes can be very different from one location to another. And, some locations have electrical power at the jobsite from the beginning, while some don't. In most cases, contractors will choose electric power for their compressors, especially in the residential and commercial building markets. For those jobs where electrical power comes to the jobsite later in the building process, they may be forced to go with a gas-driven compressor — or they may use each at the appropriate time. Service trucks are also a great application for gas-driven compressors, while a shop or maintenance facility usually opts for an electric compressor.Latest developments?
We've recently introduced three new combination air compressor/generator models designed to supply contractors with all the utilities needed at a jobsite. The built-in generator system, which increases productivity by condensing two vital pieces of equipment into one machine, is something we've had remodelers and contractors tell us they'd appreciate. This combination caters to industrial applications that require electrical power and air.
We are also seeing a lot more units being built inside a roll cage. This benefits contractors in two ways. First, it protects the units — it isn't unusual to see compressors as the first thing put in the back of a pickup truck, and then everything else is thrown in on top. The roll cage helps keep these items from damaging the vital components of the compressor. The roll cage also offers more portability. On the larger portable compressors, the roll cage and lifting hook make it easier to lift a compressor on top of roofs where it is more practical and accessible.
author: Matt Hoefer
Equipment Division manager
Mi-T-M Corp.




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