Piston VS Screw Compressor
Piston Compressors – Piston compressors are versatile and durable, being able to handle a wide range of air volumes and pressures, whilst the robust construction can allow for arduous operation in very demanding environments when correctly sized and operated. Piston compressors are capable of being energy efficient, a key advantage is the use of a constant speed control valve. Unlike rotary compressors a piston compressor can work for only one hour a day, if that is all that is required. Reducing energy wastage by not having to reach an optimum working temperature.
The Dual control option that we offer allows the compressor to be changed from automatic stop/start control to continuous run. For example, if you need to use the compressor continuously for an extended period of time, you can change over to continuous run via a manual valve. This will reduce the amount of stop/starts via the pressure switch & motor because the compressor will offload via a constant speed control valve instead. The constant speed control valve opens the inlet valves so the machine will run off load, therefore reducing energy costs & reducing the wear on the pressure switch & motor.
Screw Compressors – Rotary screw compressors use a rotary type positive mechanism. There are a set of male and female rotors, that are designed differently so that, when turned in unison, air will become trapped between them. They mesh together without touching to achieve compression. The air volume is reduced as it moves through the rotors, resulting in compressed air.
Fixed speed rotary screw compressors are commonly used in applications where continuous volumes of high pressure air is required for a consistent period of time. Variable speed rotary screw compressors are commonly used in applications requiring a fluctuating demand in compressed air. The inverter technology allows the compressor to smoothly adjust the motor speed and power consumption to respond to any changes in air demand. However, this comes with the added complication of more electrical components.
