Rotary Screw Compressor Buyer's Guide

You work hard and expect the same from your tools and equipment.

When it comes to air compressors, nothing outworks a rotary screw compressor.

These workhorses are designed to run 24 hours a day, 365 days a year - for years and years.

If you require more than 60% duty cycle from your machinery or tools, choose a rotary screw compressor.

How It Works
Rotary screw compressor are powered when air enters a sealed chamber, where it is trapped between two contra-rotating rotors (screws).

As the rotors intermesh, they reduce the volume of trapped air and deliver it compressed, at the proper pressure level.


Energy Savings
One of the first things you'll notice about a rotary screw compressor is the price tag. The upfront cost is higher than with other types of compressors but the investment will pay off.

With reciprocating air compressors, the cost of energy required to run it can exceed the purchase price in one year.

However, with rotary screw compressors, 10 years of energy costs will amount to roughly 70% of the purchase price.

Many of our models are Energy Star rated, using 20-30% less energy than federal standards allow.


Super Strength
These compressors are meant to be run constantly for at least a decade. Rotary screw compressors are designed to handle the demands of the most professional garages, factories and other industrial settings.

Because of their reliability and longevity, rotary screw compressors are found on oil rigs and in amusement parks, powering roller coasters and fountains.

Our largest models can produce more than 200 CFM.


Clean, Fresh Air
The process of compressing air concentrates water vapor, raising the dew point of the compressed air, resulting in condensation.

Water in compressed air can cause problems for the user. This includes freezing of outdoor air lines, corrosion of equipment, and fouling of precision work.

An air dryer can solve this problem by cooling and drying hot, wet air.

Oil and other particulates can infiltrate the air tank causing problems, but an air filter prevents this, maintaining a constant supply of clean, unadulterated compressed air.


Rotary Screw Compressor Considerations
Horsepower (HP) - One HP is the force needed to lift 550 lbs. one foot in one second.

Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) - CFM is a measure of air volume velocity. Anything powered by compressed air has a CFM requirement so you need to choose a powerful enough compressor.

Electrical Phase - You need to choose single-phase or three-phase. Single-phase electricity is found in residential settings.

Three-phase electricity is most typically found in industrial locations & settings.

Consult with your electrician and local codes to determine which type you have.