Choosing a Screw Compressor
You’re looking for a high-quality, durable air compressor. JMC Equipment offers rotary screw air compressors from premium manufacturers, including Chicago Pneumatic, BelAire and Ingersoll Rand.
They operate differently than reciprocating compressors. Internal screws never touch, which reduces noise and friction and saves up to 70% in parts.
Tank mounted models are also available for a smaller footprint. They’re equipped with premium standard features, like an integrated air dryer and compressed air filters.
Cost of Compressor
There are many different types of air compressors on the market, each with its own set of benefits. However, rotary screw compressors are the best choice for heavy-duty applications that need continuous air supply over long periods of time. They offer a low energy consumption and are very quiet in operation. They also come in a variety of control options to match the application requirements.
They work by trapping air between two meshed rotors and reducing the volume of the trapped air as it moves down through the rotors. This air is then displaced out of the compressor through a delivery valve at high pressure. The result is a consistent stream of compressed air that can power tools, inflate tires and more. This is why rotary screw air compressors are used in many industrial applications.
They are ideal for applications that need a continual flow of compressed air and are more durable than reciprocating compressors. However, they are not the right fit for businesses with sporadic demands like automotive body shops that need to use their compressor intermittently. This is because stopping and starting the compressor regularly causes problems with the compressor’s bearings. If this is a concern, then you may want to consider a reciprocating air compressor for your business. These air compressors are typically cheaper up front but have a lower total cost of ownership than their rotary screw counterparts.
Cost of Oil
Oil is a critical component of a screw compressor. It serves multiple functions, including lubrication, cooling and chemically neutralizing water and gas emulsions. It is also used to reduce wear on the screw element and seals. In addition, it helps to maintain proper air pressure in the system. It is important to use the type of oil recommended by your air compressor manufacturer. It is a good idea to read the manual for your machine to learn more about the maintenance and operating guidelines. Changing your oil regularly can help prolong the life of your machine.
Most rotary screw compressors require a 20-weight or 30-weight nondetergent oil. This screw compressor price oil can be polyglycol synthetics or hydroprocessed mineral oils. These types of oils are less prone to dilution by water or sour gas. They can also help with the start-up of the compressor in colder temperatures. They also provide adequate oil film thickness at operating temperature.
Rotary Screw air compressors are complex machines. The oil-flooded rotors of the compressor are intertwined with each other, forming an interlocked mechanical seal. The lubricating oil bridges the space between the rotor vanes to both transfer mechanical energy and lubricate them. The resulting mixture of air and oil exits the air end through a one-way valve. The air is cooled and routed to the air lines, while the oil is cooled, filtered and rerouted back into the air-end in a closed loop system.
Cost of Maintenance
Screw air compressors have less wear and tear than piston-type compressors, which saves on maintenance costs. However, they do require regular inspections and replacement parts. They also require specialized maintenance technicians. This can be an extra cost, but a skilled technician can keep the machine running at peak performance.
The compressor works with two screws that rotate and intermeshed to trap air in a gap between the screws and their housing. The air is then squeezed, and the pressure is released through the delivery valve. The result is a continuous, quiet operation that is more efficient than reciprocating compressors.
The rotary screw air compressor is designed for 100% duty cycle, so it’s not the best choice for intermittent demand applications. Frequently turning the compressor on and off will cause water to condense inside the unit, which can lead to problems screw compressor manufacturers with the bearings. The best option for these types of applications is a variable-speed drive motor, which will help the compressor ramp air production up and down to match demand.
One of the biggest expenses associated with rotary screw air compressors is oil. The oil helps to cool and lubricate the compressor’s compression system. Without proper lubrication, the compressor can overheat and fail. It’s important to use the type of compressor oil recommended by the manufacturer, and to change the oil regularly.
Cost of Installation
When choosing a compressor, it’s important to look at the total cost of ownership. Rotary screw compressors tend to have lower lifetime costs than piston air compressors due to their energy efficiency and longevity. They typically last 6-8 times longer than piston-type compressors before requiring a rebuild.
They are ideal for use in industries that require continuous air demands like automotive or tire repair shops. They are also perfect for facilities that produce high volumes of materials or products. In addition to their reliability, performance and durability, rotary screw compressors provide quiet operation. They also come in variable speed drives for applications with varying demand throughout the day.
The air-end of a rotary air compressor contains two meshed screw rotors that trap the air, which is reduced in volume as they rotate. This compression process generates a higher air pressure than the starting point. A compressed air outlet valve then releases the pressurized air. The rotors are sealed together to prevent moisture and contaminants from entering the system, and bearings are used to reduce friction between them.
The resulting air is routed to an air receiver tank or directly to air-using processes. An oil pump lubricates the rotors and maintains a hydraulic seal, as well as transfers mechanical energy between the rotors. A cooling tower cools the air, and a separator and dryer remove water and oil from the compressed air stream.
