Air compressors are used in a range of industrial applications, from nuclear power generation to food and beverage manufacturing. There are two basic compressor types: positive displacement and dynamic. While Positive displacement compressors are the most common type seen in industrial settings, dynamic compressors offer extra power.

Our knowledgeable team at Energy Machinery can help you identify the right product for your needs. On this page, we’ll highlight key differences between common types of compressors and the types of equipment we carry.

Basics of Oil-Flooded and Oil-Free Air Compressors

When it comes to selecting the right air compressors, one of the most important distinctions to make is between oil-flooded and oil-free units. Both types offer advantages in specific applications. Below are some important factors to consider when making your selection.

Oil-Flooded Air Compressors

Oil-flooded compressors feature oil-lubricated compression chambers. An oil pump ensures that lubrication constantly reaches all critical components. Oil-flooded compressors are usually required for heavy-duty applications and offer more durability. They are most often used with low-powered construction equipment.

While oil-flooded compressors are ideal for long-term use, they also require more maintenance. It’s also possible for oil to contaminate the compressed air. FDA regulations require oil-free compressors in some industries, meaning these units may not be suitable for every application.

Oil-Free Air Compressors

Instead of using an oil-filled compression chamber, oil-free air compressors feature lubrication that is built into the equipment’s moving parts. While these units can be more expensive than oil-flooded options, they also produce cleaner air with little noise and are lightweight for easy relocation.

Centrifugal air compressors (and some types of rotary screw and reciprocating compressors) are usually oil-free. They provide a great solution for eco-friendly workplaces and limited-space environments, as centrifugal compressors use less energy and require less maintenance.

The Types of Air Compressors

Energy Machinery offers a wide selection of industrial air compressors at highly competitive prices. Below, you’ll find information on the types of air compressors we offer and their unique advantages.

Rotary Screw Compressors
Rotary Screw Compressors
A rotary screw compressor features a pair of screws that rotate in opposite directions to compress air within a sealed chamber. This type of air compressor is highly durable and allows for long-term, heavy-duty use. Rotary screw compressors are used in all types of manufacturing environments.
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Scroll Compressors
Scroll Compressors
In this type of air compressor, one stationary scroll and one rotating scroll work together to compress air. This design features few moving parts and fewer vibrations for improved longevity. Scroll air compressors are oil-free and produce the cleanest air by ISO standards. For this reason, they’re a popular option for companies who want to adhere to a higher environmental standard.
Rotary Vane Compressors
Rotary Vane Compressors
Rotary vane compressors use centrifugal force to pressurize air. Instead of using a pumping motion like other designs, they use a spinning technique to compress the air. These compressors are compact and sturdy. They are easy to maintain and very quiet.
Reciprocating Compressors
Reciprocating Compressors
Reciprocating compressors are among the most powerful compressors for light-duty applications. They use pistons to compress and displace air and can generate a lot of air without consuming large amounts of energy. Reciprocating compressors are more compact than rotary screw compressors and more portable, making them well-suited to many types of construction work. However, reciprocating compressors produce more heat and are not recommended for continuous use.
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Centrifugal Air Compressors
Centrifugal Air Compressors
Rather than relying on a closed reserve of air, centrifugal compressors draw air in from the outside using a spinning impeller. Certain centrifugal machines use multiple stages to increase pressure and deliver more power. These machines offer more horsepower and are well-suited to demanding applications involving heavy-duty equipment. They also cost less compared to other compressors with similar horsepower. However, since they rely on fast-moving parts, they are more prone to problems like choking or stalling.
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Variable Speed Compressors
Variable Speed Compressors
Variable speed compressors are a type of rotary compressor that features a variable speed drive (VSD). These units are highly efficient and can adapt to fluctuating compressed air needs. They are commonly used in continuous operations where demand for air varies at different times in the year. Since VSD compressors run in an unloaded condition, they greatly reduce energy consumption.
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How to Choose an Air Compressor

There are several factors to take into consideration when selecting an air compressor. In many cases, investing in a quality system will offer better performance, access to premium features, and greater savings in the long run. The first step in the selection process is to understand your compressed air needs.

Some useful questions to start with include:

What is your facility’s operating pressure?
What is the required CFM usage of your air tools?
Will you be operating in short bursts or over longer periods of time?
Will your compressor have constant access to electricity or will you need a diesel-powered drive system?

It’s also a good idea to consider how important factors like tank size, noise, cooling abilities, cost, and eco-friendliness are to you. If you need assistance making your selection, our knowledgeable team is always here for you.