Piston Air Compressors vs. Rotary Screw: Which One Should You Buy?
When it comes to air compressors, two commonly used types are piston (reciprocating), and rotary screws. Both designs have unique advantages and applications.
This guide will explore the fundamental differences between them, and help you determine which air compressor is better suited for your business requirements.
If you need additional guidance with your compressed air system or have questions, our experts at AirCompressors.com are ready to help you find the best product for your business.
What Is a Piston (Reciprocating) Air Compressor?
A piston or reciprocating air compressor is the oldest, and most common type of compressed air equipment. It utilizes the principle of displacement to increase air pressure in an enclosed chamber.
What Is a Rotary Screw Air Compressor?
A rotary screw air compressor operates by using twin screws to compress air continuously, making it ideal for applications that require longer service intervals.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Air Compressor
When deciding on the most suitable air compressor for your needs, consider specific key factors beyond the cost of your purchase.
- What is the size of compressor you need and for what application?
- What type of airflow, pressure, and air quality do you need?
- What noise and vibration levels should I expect?
- What does service and maintenance look like?
Let's take a closer look into these key consideration factors.
Size & Application
Are you looking to use an air compressor for a specific purpose? Will it be for your home workshop, or an industrial setting? Do you need it to be mobile, or can it be stationery? Take these questions into consideration before you begin your search.
Airflow, Pressure, & Air Quality
Other key factors to consider are the airflow (CFM), pressure (PSI), and air quality levels your facility will require. Knowing this ahead of time will be critical when choosing what type of equipment to purchase.
Duty Cycle
It's important to understand the amount of time your air compressor will need to operate. This is known as the duty cycle, which determines how long a unit can continuously run. Ask yourself how many hours per year your compressor operates and how many shifts you run per day.
Noise & Vibration Levels
Carefully determine the impact of compressor noise and vibration on the work environment in which the compressor will be utilized. How will this impact the facility?
Purchase Costs & Energy Efficiency
In addition to the initial purchase price, ongoing operating costs should be evaluated when choosing one type of air compressor over another.
Maintenance and Service Intervals
Maintenance and service costs are also important to consider when looking at the overall cost of compressor ownership. Understand the wear and tear for each compressor type.
Comparing Piston & Rotary Screw Air Compressors
Keeping in mind the key factors and considerations above, let’s look at both piston and rotary screw compressors to evaluate the effectiveness of each for your usage.
Size & Application
Piston air compressors tend to be smaller than rotary screw units, typically used for applications that require short bursts of air. Due to their design, rotary compressors tend to be larger and are used for applications needing steady airflow over an extended period of time.
Airflow, Pressure, & Air Quality
Despite their more compact size, piston compressors can produce higher air pressures, reaching 200 PSI or more. However, its airflow quality is known to experience pulsations and fluctuations.
Rotary units produce smooth and consistent airflow, but at lower PSI levels. With regard to output quality, they also produce cleaner air as well.
Duty Cycle
Piston machines are best in intermittent applications. They are not designed for 24/7 operation. Rotary compressors can perform continuously, making them a good choice in high-production environments.
Noise & Vibration Levels
Piston compressors are louder and capable of producing noise levels of 80 decibels or greater, while rotary units tend to be in the 70-80 decibel range.
Purchase Costs & Energy Efficiency
Piston compressors cost less to purchase than rotary units, but rotary units are more cost- and energy-efficient, which can save you money in the long run.
Maintenance & Service Intervals
Piston air compressors have more moving parts than rotary equipment, making their maintenance needs greater. Rotary compressors don’t have as much wear and tear, typically needing nothing more than oil checks and changes at specified intervals, although preventative maintenance is recommended for both air compressor types.
AirCompressors.com Can Help You Make the Right Compressor Choice
Choosing the right air compressor type is vital for meeting your specific needs and that’s where AirCompressors.com can help. Our compressed air professionals can expertly guide you in choosing the right air equipment to meet your exact requirements. Our team has technical, maintenance, engineering, and sales experience so , whether you’re deciding between a piston compressor, rotary screw compressor, or other products, AirCompressors.com is here to help.
Talk to an expert today to learn more.
