The right hydraulic air compressor can improve productivity, efficiency, and profitability, but it&#;s an investment that takes careful consideration. This article breaks down the top 5 things you need to know when buying hydraulic air compressors for service trucks.
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5. How Much Air Do You Need?
Every air compressor purchase should start with the same essential questions:
- What are you using the air compressor for?
- How much CFM do you need?
Hydraulic air compressors for service trucks range from 30 CFM to 185 CFM, which is a substantial range of air. Most operators only need 30 to 60 CFM at 100% duty cycle, but it depends entirely on what the air is used for.
Take a look at what VMAC&#;s hydraulic air compressors can power:
H40 Hydraulic Air Compressor (40 CFM)
H60 Hydraulic Air Compressor (60 CFM)
¾&#; impact wrenches
1&#; impact wrenches
Light chipping hammers
60 lb jackhammers
Die grinders
Backfill tampers
Tire inflation tools
Vertical/horizontal grinders
OTR tire inflation tools
As a general rule, air compressors get larger, heavier, and more expensive as the CFM increases. Therefore, operators looking for a hydraulic air compressor should choose a high-quality air compressor that meets their maximum CFM needs without greatly exceeding it.
Quickly find out your air requirements with our handy Air Tool Consumption Guide!
4. Do You Really Need A Hydraulic Air Compressor?
Many operators assume that a service truck with a hydraulic crane should also have a hydraulic air compressor but that&#;s not always the case!
There&#;s no real wrong type of air compressor&#;assuming you have the appropriate power source and it meets your needs&#;but sometimes non-hydraulic air compressors make more sense for certain applications and vehicles.
For example, operators who want to operate their crane and air compressor simultaneously might need a non-hydraulic air compressor because many service trucks can only run one piece of hydraulic equipment at a time. In this scenario, a Direct-Transmission Mounted or UNDERHOOD® air compressor would be a better choice.
A hydraulic air compressor is an excellent bet for service trucks with existing hydraulics in one of two scenarios:
- The hydraulic crane and air compressor are operated at separate times; or
- The vehicle&#;s hydraulic system can handle dual-operation.
Otherwise, a different type of air compressor may be the smart choice!
3. Do You Want A Rotary Screw Air Compressor?
Once you know your specific needs, it&#;s time to learn more about the two types of hydraulic air compressors: rotary screw and reciprocating. While both types of air compressors will compress air, that&#;s where their similarities end.
The most obvious benefit of rotary screw air compressors is the ability to run at 100% duty cycle. By contrast, reciprocating air compressors require a large air tank that must be filled up before starting a job and will routinely run out of air. Filling an air tank typically takes several minutes, which can feel frustratingly close to eternity when an operator is standing around and waiting to work.
While rotary screw air compressors offer superior performance, they also have a higher upfront cost that can be a deterrent when budgets are tight in the short-term.
Check out our Easy Guide to Rotary Screw Air Compressors to learn more about rotary screw systems, including a more thorough explanation of their advantages and disadvantages.
2. What Is The Weight & Size Of Hydraulic Air Compressors?
By now, you should know with confidence what your air demand needs are and whether a rotary screw hydraulic air compressor is your priority. The next step is to narrow down your options to find the best air compressor.
One of the biggest differentiators between hydraulic air compressor brands is their weight and size. There are numerous benefits to air compressors that are smaller and lighter in weight, but not all manufacturers have the innovation and capability to produce powerful air compressors that are also compact.
Benefits of lower weight:
- Reduce GVW
- Downgrade vehicle class
- Improve fuel efficiency
- More capacity for other equipment & tools
Benefits of reduced size:
- More space for other equipment & tools
- Improved visibility
- Sleek, sophisticated look
Take a look at the 3 most prominent hydraulic air compressor brands in North America:
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit portable compressor manufacturers.
40 CFM Hydraulic Air Compressors By Weight & Size
Boss
BA440
Vanair
Reliant
RC40
VMAC
H40
Hydraulic
CFM @ 100 psi &
12 GPM
40
40
40
Compressor Type
Recip
Recip
Rotary Screw
Weight
163 lb
(73.9 kg)
408 lb
(185.1 kg)
150 lb
(68 kg)
Size
4.7 ft3
(0.16 m3)
9.89 ft3
(0.3 m3)
4.1 ft3
(0.1 m3)
1. What Control System Features Are Available?
It&#;s easy to overlook the controls when looking at hydraulic air compressors. Yet, you will interact with these controls every time you use your air compressor. First and foremost, you&#;ll want to ensure the controls integrate with your crane controls and are easy to access and use.
Next, you should check which features are included with the controls. Some hydraulic air compressors have very simple controls with only an on/off switch, while others utilize more advanced controls with LED displays.
Basic control systems will display:
- Temperature
- Pressure
- Machine Hours
More sophisticated control systems have additional features that can help protect the air compressor and extend its life, including:
- Error Messages
- Service Reminders
- Standby mode
- Automatic cold climate protection
- Automatic system warm up
Summarizing 5 Things You Need To Know
There are a lot of things to consider when buying hydraulic air compressors, but you&#;ll be well equipped to make a smart purchase if you:
- Know your CFM requirements
- Confirm you need a hydraulic air compressor
- Understand the implications of size and weight
- Know the advantages of rotary screw air compressors
- Research control system features
For additional questions and information about hydraulic air compressors, talk to your local VMAC dealer!
Air compressors are critical for powering a variety of tools and equipment. Whether you are an enthusiast DIYer or someone in the industrial industry, choosing the best air compressor can improve your speed and performance. In this guide, we shall discuss some of the critical features that one needs to consider when looking for Air Compressors Canada.
Types of Air Compressors:
There are several types of air compressors, which have their own sets of pros and cons. The reciprocating air compressor works mechanically through a piston and cylinder system. Rotary screw compressors use a process of continuous airflow and therefore are appropriate for continuous-duty applications. Different from the others, centrifugal compressors have high efficiency with better performance for large-scale manufacturing units. Knowing these types is critical in selecting the optimal option for your demands.
Power Source:
The type of power used by your air compressor should be considered very seriously. Electric compressors are efficient, and their operations are cleaner compared to those of internal combustion engines. This makes them very convenient for indoor use. Electric compressors, however, are not portable and can only be used where electricity is available. On the other side, Gas-powered compressors provide the option of flexibility and portability. They can be used in outdoor or remote places where electricity may not be present. At last, your work and its needs will guide you to select the best air compressor you want.
Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) and Pressure (PSI):
The knowledge of how CFM and PSI work is helpful in choosing a compressor that meets your needs. CFM is used to state the amount of air that can be compressed. PSI gauges the pressure at which the air is being pumped. By evaluating the scope of your tools and applications, you can determine the CFM and PSI that are well-suited for optimal functioning.
Tank Size:
The capacity of the air compressor tank tends to determine its output. The bigger a tank is, the more air can be kept in it, and as a result, the frequency of motor operation becomes lower. This, in turn, increases the productivity of your tools in hand. Your unique project needs will guide you on the right tank size. You should always aim for the right balance between ease of carrying and the power of air delivered.
Portability and Size:
Portability is important to consider if you tend to travel with your air compressor to different job sites. In case of mobile requirements, portable compressors are the best option to go for. On the other hand, in fixed installations stationary compressors fit well. Always ensure your device is neither too large nor too compact to meet your needs.
Noise Level:
The noise level of an air compressor affects humans and their surroundings. But you do not have to keep up with the same when you have got quieter options. For residential or indoor settings use of quieter tools, is important to reduce the the sound generated. In the industrial context, the tolerance levels may vary, and it&#;s worth thinking of quieter options to offer employees a safe and relaxed working atmosphere.
Oil-Free vs. Oil-Lubricated Compressors:
Choosing between oil-free and oil-lubricated compressors involves weighing the pros and cons. Oil-free compressors come with low maintenance and are suitable for applications where oil contamination is a concern. However, oil-lubricated compressors tend to have a longer lifespan and are generally quieter. Consider your maintenance preferences and the specific requirements of your tools before making a decision.
Price and Budget Considerations:
The calculator is placed above dollar money bills
While it&#;s tempting to go for the most feature-rich air compressor, your budget is a practical constraint. Prices for air compressors vary based on type, size, and features. Assess your needs and strike a balance between the features that are crucial for your applications and your budget constraints. There are many brands in the market today that offer quality compressors at a reasonable price. So, you don&#;t have to compromise any aspect of the product to make sure you enjoy the benefits in totality. While looking to buy this tool, list some of the must-haves and special features. This will help you get the best deal possible. Always remember that buying a quality air compressor is a long-term benefit that can enhance your productivity.
Final Words!
Choosing the perfect air compressor involves a careful evaluation of numerous features to ensure it matches your unique needs. From understanding the types of compressors to considering power sources, tank size, and noise levels, each factor contributes to searching for the fittest match for your applications. By following this article, you&#;ll be able to make a smart decision that smoothens your efficiency and ensures the longevity of your air compressor investment.
For more information, please visit oil-free reciprocating air compressor.