A gas-engine air compressor uses gasoline or diesel to run. Its main job is to take in air, compress it into a smaller space and pressurise. This compressed air can then be used to power pneumatic tools, inflate tyres or even spray paint. It’s like a pump that squeezes air really tight so it can be used for different jobs. However, before choosing the right air compressor, it’s important to note that there are a lot of misconceptions regarding its operation and safety.
Common Misconceptions About Gas-Engine Air Compressor
There are a lot of misconceptions floating around the internet about gas-engine air compressors. From concerns about efficiency to safety issues, these misunderstandings sometimes overshadow the benefits these machines offer. Here’s a list of a few misinterpretations:
Myth #1: Gas Compressors are Less Efficient than Electric Ones
A lot of people think that gas-engine air compressors are less efficient than electric ones. It isn’t quite true. Gas compressors do use more fuel, which can cost more money. But they can also be more powerful.
They are a good choice for places without electricity, like construction sites away from a power source. They can run nail guns, drills and other air tools efficiently.
Myth #2: Gas Compressors are Unsafe
People often worry about gas compressors being unsafe because of the fuel. But the new ones come with safety features to prevent problems.
For instance, Ingersoll-Rand stationary gas air compressors have a valve pilot control that idles the engine upon reaching the pressure capacity (175 psi) and resumes full throttle at 145 psi.
Myth #3: Gas Compressors Require High Maintenance
Just like any other machine, stationary air compressors also need regular check-ups. But they’re not fussy at all. Regular care involves replacing air filters, looking at hoses for cracks and checking the oil. This periodic inspection helps them function properly for extended periods. Simply follow the instructions that come with the compressor and have a professional check-up now and then. This will keep things working smoothly and avoid breakdowns.
Myth #4: Gas Compressors are Noisy and Polluting
Another common misconception is that gas compressors are very noisy and environmentally harmful. This isn’t exactly true anymore. Gas engines used to be noisy and dirty, but new technology has made them much cleaner.
Honda or Kohler engines power Speedaire stationary air compressors. They may operate at noise levels as low as 88 decibels.
Additionally, if you wish to further reduce noise emissions, you can always use a silencer.
Myth #5: Gas Compressors are Limited in Application
Some people may mistakenly believe that gas compressors can’t do as much as electric models. Not true! Gas-engine air compressors can power several air tools, like drills & wrenches for tough jobs. Moreover, Their ability to operate in remote locations makes them valuable in the construction, agriculture and mining industries.
How to Choose the Right Gas-Engine Air Compressor?
Air compressor is not just a commodity but an investment. Therefore, before making your next investment:
Determine Air Requirements
Figure out how much air power you need. Think about how many air tools you use at the same time. Check the CFM rating on your tools.
If you think you might need more tools or use them more heavily in the future, add some extra CFM to your total to be safe.
Suppose you run an automotive repair shop. Your air tools include impact wrenches, pneumatic drills and paint sprayers. You estimate that during peak hours, you might need to operate two impact wrenches (5 CFM each), a pneumatic drill (10 CFM) and a paint sprayer (15 CFM).
Therefore, your total air requirement during peak times would be 35 CFM.
Consider Duty Cycle
The right duty cycle for your business depends on the frequency and duration of air compressor usage. Think about how long you’ll need the compressor to run each day. Will it work all day or just for short bursts here and there?
| Angle Grinding | 5 to 8 CFM at 90 psi |
| Braid Nailing | 0.3 CFM at 90 psi |
| Chiseling | 3 to 11 CFM at 90 psi |
| Cutting | 4 to 10 CFM at 90 psi |
| Drilling | 3 to 6 CFM at 90 psi |
| Dual Sanding | 11 to 13 CFM at 90 psi |
| Frame Nailing | 2.2 CFM at 90 psi |
| Greasing | 4 CFM at 90 psi |
| Metal Nibbling | 4 CFM at 90 psi |
| Mini Grinding | 4 to 6 CFM at 90 psi |
| Needle Scaling | 8 to 16 CFM at 90 psi |
| Orbital Sanding | 6 to 9 CFM at 90 psi |
| Painting | 3 to 11.3 CFM at 90 psi |
| Ratcheting | 1/4″ : 2.5 to 3.5 CFM at 90 psi 3/8″ : 4.5 to 5 CFM at 90 psi |
| Riveting | 4 CFM at 90 psi |
| Sawing | 5 CFM at 90 psi |
| Shearing | 8 to 16 CFM at 90 psi |
| Unscrewing | 3/8″: 2.5 to 3.5 CFM at 90 psi 1/2″: 4 to 5 CFM at 90 psi 1″: 10 CFM at 90 psi |
Airflow Requirements as per Application
A small auto repair shop that uses air tools periodically throughout the day may require a gas-engine air compressor with an intermittent duty cycle. In this scenario, the compressor may run for short bursts when tools are in use and then remain idle for extended periods between tasks.
Woodworking shops use air tools like sanders, drills and spray guns a lot, but not all the time. Gas-powered air compressors with a moderate-duty cycle would be a good fit for these shops. They can run for longer stretches when in use but still need breaks to cool down in between.
Furthermore, big factories that use air-powered machines all day long require a compressor with a continuous duty cycle. They’re built tough and won’t overheat. Hence, they can handle heavy-duty work all day.
Intermittent Duty (20-30%): The compressor can run for 20-30% of the time during an hour without overheating.
Moderate Duty (50%): The compressor can run for half of the time during an hour.
Continuous Duty (100%): The compressor can run continuously without needing rest periods.
Determine Tank Size
The size of the air receiver tank affects the compressor’s ability to handle fluctuations in demand. It also impacts the compressor’s duty cycle. Choose a tank size that exceeds your usage patterns and provides sufficient reserve capacity.
Pro Tip: Choose a compressor with a tank size that is 1.5 to 2 times larger than your total air demand.
Most-Searched Gas-Engine Air Compressors
| Air Compressor | Fuel | Engine | Max Pressure (psi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ingersoll-Rand Stationary Air Compressor | Gasoline | Kohler | 175 |
| Vanair® Stationary Air Compressor | Diesel | Kubota | 100 |
| Speedaire® Stationary Air Compressor | Gasoline | Honda | 135 |
| Chicago Pneumatic Stationary Air Compressor | Gasoline | Honda | 175 |
Now that you know the main aspects of air compressors, order one today. At Raptor Supplies, we offer a wide range of stationary gas-engine air compressors from top brands, such as Speedaire, Varnair and Chicago Pneumatic. With over 2 million products in our catalogue, we’re sure to have one that meets your application requirements. You can also contact our sales representatives for advice on which air compressor to choose. Don’t forget to check out our customer review page to see what our satisfied customers have to say about our service.
We are an international MRO supplier proudly serving customers in the UK, Europe, the Middle East, as well as Asia.
