An air compressor is an air-filled device. It converts power into potential energy that is stored in pressurized air. It uses an electric motor, diesel, gasoline, etc., to restore the power. The point that is contained in the tank can be used for numerous applications.
The pumps are devices that are capable of moving liquids as well as gases. On the other hand, compressors only move gas.
The air compressors force the air into the container and pressurize it. An opening in the container forces this air out. The compress is then used as energy when it is released through the opening.
10 Air Compressor Pumps
1. CRAFTSMAN CMEC6159K
CRAFTSMAN is a prominent company in manufacturing a wide range of Air Compressors, Air Receiver tanks, Air Compressor Filter, Compressor Spare Parts, Activated Carbon Filter, etc., compressors are searched, the air compressors by CRAFTSMAN top the list for various reasons.
CRAFTSMAN CMEC6159K is a pancake-shaped tank with a size of 6 gallons (22.7 liters). Its high portability makes it a better choice than other air compressors. It is a zero-maintenance product as it has an oil-free pump. You can use this air compressor for diversified applications as it has 150 maximum PSI. It gives you a high compressor flow rate with a high recovery time as it packs 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI.
It can be used in winters easily as its machine starts without any complication, even at low temperatures. Its specialty includes that it comes with 13 pieces in the accessory kit, which can be a pleasure as it eases and diversify uses. It comes with a warranty of one which covers all mechanic malfunctions. Its durability and portability make it the customer’s favorite.
Advantages:
- Accessory kit
- Easy to set-up
- Very Portable
- Highly durable
Disadvantage:
- A bit louder
2. Porter C2002-WK Air Compressor
Porter-Cable is an American company founded by R.E. Porter, G.G. Porter, and F.E. Cable in 1906. It is one of the world’s leading air compressor manufacturing companies which started developing compressors in 1914. They began as jobbing machine and tool shop and expanded it to manufacturing and pioneering power tools.
Porter-Cable C2002-WK air compressor comes with a pancake style shape which makes it highly stable. The 6 gallon capacity of this air compressor makes it a desirable choice for a lot of customers. It comes with a 13- pieces accessory kit that makes it ideal for various uses without any struggle on your end. It requires nearly no maintenance as it has an oil-free pump.
It is a fully equipped air compressor with an air couple and plugs installed on the air hose. It might feel quite bulky to some users. It has a weight as high as 15.8 kgs. It is also a bit noisier than other air compressors. It has, though, earned good ratings from customers on various sites. It has been reviewed as very reliable and durable.
Advantages:
- Easy to set-up
- Slightly Portable
- 1-year warranty
- High durability
Disadvantages
- Slightly Heavier
- A bit louder
3. Dewalt DWFP55126 Air Compressor
Raymond DeWalt launched a company in 1924 bearing his name. This company specializes in electrically powered woodworking machines. Today this company produce a wide variety of fasteners and tools, including hand and automotive tools, power tools, air compressor, outdoor tools, etc.
The Dewalt DWFP55126 Air Compressor comes in a pancake shape with a high capacity of a 6-gallon tank. It has a robust motor which is very advantageous as it will start without any problem even on a freezing day. It requires only very little maintenance as it is an oil-less compressor pump.
You can conduct an annual maintenance inspection on it because it has a removable console. It is mainly preferred for its lightweight and high portability. It has two couplers which will help you, for instance, run two nail guns at the same time.
Advantages:
- Minimal noise levels (rated as 75 dBa)
- Powerful enough for house use and light duties
- Very high PSI at 165 maximum PSI
- Highly durable
- Very portable
- Light-weighted
- 1-year warranty
Disadvantages:
- Accessories are not available at the time of purchase. You will have to buy them
- A bit costlier as accessories aren’t included
4. Bostitch BTFP02012 Air Compressor
Stanley- Bostitch is an American company founded by Thomas Briggs in 1896. Earlier it was known as Boston Wire Stitch Company. Today, this company specializes in designing and manufacturing fastening tools such as staple guns, glue guns, and air compressor models for personal and professional use.
Bostitch BTFP02012 is a pancake-style air compressor with a 6-gallon tank capacity. It is said to be one of the best portable air compressors in the market right now. It has a powerful motor which enables it to start efficiently on a cold winter day without any trouble.
Has the oil-free design of this compressor ensures no maintenance. Its high electric motor makes it highly efficient and comparatively silent while working, which adds up another feature of low noise. The model is also fitted with a high-flow regulator and two couplers. This helps in the optimization of the performance of your air tools. You can run it only for 30 to 45 minutes in one hour because it is required to shut down for cooling.
Advantages:
- Minimal noise levels
- Very Portable
- High Tank Pressure at 150 maximum PSI
- High Durability
- 1-year warranty
Disadvantage:
- Accessories are not available
- A bit costly, considering no accessories
5. Campbell Hausfeld FP209499AV
Campbell Hausfeld was established in 1836 to create pieces of equipment for farmers in America. They started producing air compressors in 1940 and now have their name on the list of the world’s leading air processor companies. They are highly known for perfect low-priced air compressors.
Campbell Hausfeld FP209499AV is particularly designed to be user-friendly, which also the prime reason that it is the first choice of many people. It is mainly known for its multitasking ability, even being in a compact size. It is completely equipped with all the desired facilities for a customer.
It is also maintenance-free as it comes with an oil-less tank making it more durable. Its compact size makes it highly portable. It has a tough motor which makes it get started efficiently without any difficulty, even on a cold winter day. The air compressor comes with a 10-piece accessory kit which includes a blowgun, coiled hose, fittings, etc., making it more of your use.
Advantages:
- Highly Portable
- Compact Design
- 10-pieces accessory kit
- Conveniently placed gauges
- Reliable and tough motor
Disadvantages:
- Very less pressure than other air compressors ( 110 PSI maximum pressure)
6. Makita MAC700 Air Compressor
Makita was a company found in Japan hundreds of years ago. They started as an electric motor sale and repairing company in 1915, and later that year manufactured their first power tool. The company now has its grip on over 40 countries around the globe. The company has been well-known for energy-efficient, industrial-strength power tools.
Makita MAC700 Air Compressor is a power-packed air compressor in a small container. It has a muscular two horsepower motor, large-bore pump cylinder, and durable piston that give a maximum combination of lower noise output, increased productivity, and reliable worksite performance.
It comes with a convenient handle that serves the dual purpose of portability and protection. It is, though a bit heavier than other air compressors comparatively. It has a highly durable design, and Makita staying up to its forte has made it innovative and highly energy efficient. But this also means that the air compressor cannot be used for extensive work; it is more suitable for light DIY works. It has very large air filters, which allow a dust-free airflow and help in great output.
Advantages:
- Lower noise than other air compressors
- Highly Durable
- Very portable and protective
- 1-year warranty
Disadvantages:
- Cannot perform extensive work
- Heavier than other air compressors
7. Senco PC1010
The Airco Fasteners Pt. Ltd manufactures the Senco air compressors. They have been manufacturing high-quality air compressors for as long as 50 years. They manufacture a diversified range of tools and equipment to make it easier for remodelers and professionals to accomplish a wide range of activities such as renovation, construction, and industry tasks.
Senco PC1010 is a small-sized air compressor that has a good build quality. It has the capacity of one gallon, which makes it favorable for all sorts of small home jobs. As the capacity is too small, if you want to do long work requiring more air, you would have to run it continuously. It has a very low noise level as compared to other air compressors. Being lightweight, it is highly portable and easy to carry.
It has an oil-free pump which makes it a very low-maintenance air compressor. This compressor also provides clean air. It saves your time as it has a fast recovery time. It has good safety measures and is built with quality.
Advantages
- Lightweight and Portable
- Easy to handle
- Fast recovery
- Low noise level
- Low maintenance
Disadvantage
- Can’t carry out heavy work
- No accessories provided
8. EPAuto 12V DC Air Compressor
EPAuto is a well-known company that manufactures high-quality air filters, air compressors, automotive tools, and automotive accessories. It has been a renowned company in the air compressor market and has gained a place among the best through its years of efforts.
EPAuto 12V D.C. is a portable air compressor that has its specialty in an overheat protection system. Whenever the unit gets overheated, it shuts down itself to protect itself from any kind of damage. It has a digital meter for precise pressure reading. Its other specialty is that it has inbuilt LED lights, making it easier to use them at night in a dark place.
It can only be used for intensive works as it has a very low pressure with a 70 PSI maximum. Being small in size, it is highly portable and easy to carry. It ensures enough durability considering the high-protection system it brings along with it.
Advantages
- Precise pressure reading
- LED lights for night or dark place usage
- High Durability
- Very Portable and easy to carry
Disadvantages
- It is overpriced, considering no accessories given
- High power consumption
9. IngersollRand Air compressor
Ingersoll Rand is an American worldwide company founded in 1859. They are a provider of industrial equipment, technologies, and related parts and services to a broad and diverse customer base. The air compressors by them are made with superior components. They are well-known for their amazing customer service team.
Ingersoll Rand air compressor is designed for professionals and a garage mate for home, shop, or job sites. It delivers maximum air to facilitate your various appliances such as drills, paint sprayers, impact guns, etc. It has a portable design which makes it easy to carry for both professionals and DIYers. It is user-friendly as it has an automatic start/stop, pressure control, and accessible side drain valve.
It has a high receiver tank capacity, 20 gallons. This makes it favorable for both extensive and intensive uses. It has all season synthetic lubricant which increases its efficiency to a very high level. It has four-time better performance than petroleum-based lubricants. Its cast-iron cylinder and frame make it more durable.
Advantages:
- Very Portable
- Highly User-Friendly
- Maximum Power
- Reliable Operation
- Highly Durable
- 1-year warranty
Disadvantages:
- Need improvement in pressure
- Low CFM capacity
10. Industrial Air IV5076055 Air Compressor
Industrial Air is an Indian company based in Ahmedabad founded in 1977 with its associated group companies. They have been manufacturing compressor parts since then. In 1988, they turned it into their own company. They are well-known for their quality and reliability. Both domestic and overseas markets have widely accepted them.
Industrial Air IV5076055 has been built with a robust build and specifically for industrial use but can be used in other activities. It has a maximum CFM capacity of 175 PSI which is enough to fulfill the usage of more than one air tool at one time. It has an easily accessible air intake filter because of the 4-inch extension. The low pump RPM prevents its wear and tear, making it more durable.
It has a powerful motor which can start without any problem even on a freezing day. It has a massive 60-gallon capacity (more than all the other air compressors on the list), making it better for both industrial and simple household works. It has a high horsepower two-stage air compressor machine.
Advantages:
- Highly durable
- Massive tank capacity
- Used for both extensive and intensive work
- High-Pressure power
Disadvantage:
- Overpriced as it doesn’t come with an accessory kit
What are things to be kept in mind while buying an air compressor pump?
1. Air pressure (PSI)
PSI stands for pounds per square inch. Air pressure is measured in PSI. The majority of the tools need 90PSI to work properly, but you need a compressor with a higher shut-off pressure to maintain that. Most industrial compressors build-up to shut off pressure in two stages; the first stage forms up to approximately 90 PSI, and the second stage up to 175 PSI.
Most small commercial compressors aren’t two-staged. They are a single stage. They usually shut off at 125-135 PSI and generally kick in at 100 PSI. If you feel the pressure drop in your tools, it might be because it doesn’t have enough pressure to support that tool.
2. Portability
The design of the modern air compressors is done in a way that they are more light-weighted. This makes them portable and easy to carry around in your car or truck.
The majority of the air compressors also have wheels and handles in them for their swift handling. For your DIY project or a project that requires moving the compressor around, considering the tool’s portability is wise.
3. Fuel and power type
Two types of air compressors are available- gas-powered, and other ones run on electricity. For your DIY needs, electric runs are preferred, and for heavy works, gas-powered are used.
The mechanism of the air compressor has pistons. These pistons have to be lubricated to make them work smoothly. A small-scale modern air compressor won’t need you to lubricate it much because it comes with pre-lubricated pistons.
4. Noise
Few air compressors can be very noisy. When you are using them at home, they can annoy you. The gas-powered ones are noisy. For your home improvement projects, you can consider the ones that run on electricity. They are comparatively quieter than the gas-powered ones.
5. Cubic feet per minute (CFM)
Pressure and volume are the two variables the compression functions on; pressure increases, and volume decreases when you compress. CFM measures how much air can be produced in a minute with a specific pressure.
As CFM is also connected to the tank, it can indicate when an air compressor will need to refill after a blow. Knowing the CFM value before selecting a compressor would be smart.
6. Oil or oil-less/ direct driver or belt drive
The direct-drive compressors were designed keeping in mind the low cost for big-box stores. They have low quality. Low RPM drive compressors are considered of decent quality. The noise from those compressors is loud, and their life expectancy rate is also common.
There are oil-less direct drive compressors. But approach the high-speed oil-less compressors with caution.
For those who prefer high air volume and don’t need much portability, belt-drive oil-lubricated compressors are your best option. They are efficient because the pump can spin a lot slower than the motor.
These belt-drive compressors have dippers on the bottom of the connecting rods. They splash oil around in the crankcase of the compressor. The splash lubricated pumps last longer when they have enough oil in the crankcase.
7. Horsepower
If you are confused about what size of compressor you should buy, the horsepower rating will be your friend. To determine if you are looking at the real H.P., see how much electrical power it needs to run.
Gas-powered H.P. has a different rating than an electric-powered H.P.
8. Duty cycle
The number of minutes the compressor can run out of 10 minutes is the duty cycle. It is expressed in percentage.
The low-quality compressor will have a duty cycle of just 50%. This means that it can’t run more than five minutes out of those 10 minutes. Exceeding the duty cycle will make the pump too hot, and its efficiency can be compromised.
At least a 75% duty cycle is offered by many industrial compressors. Some even provide 100%. To get your money’s worth, spend a little more to get a compressor with a higher duty value.
9. Life expectancy
You are spending money on a compressor with long-term plans. What if the compressor’s life expectancy isn’t worth your money? To make sure that you get the best returns, ask about the life expectancy of the compressor you want to buy.
If you are thinking of buying a compressor of 10HP for the size you require for the application; then a better option would be to buy a 15HP compressor. The reason behind this is because the 15HP compressor will run more and will not heat up easily. It will last twice as long as the 10 H.P. compressors.
Conclusion
While purchasing an air compressor pump, have thorough research regarding the product. The application of the compressor must be determined to help you in this process. You want your project to be done efficiently, so keep in mind the points mentioned above. They should fit in all the criteria and ticks all the boxes. Select the compressor that suits all your requirements. It will then be easy for you to use and will last for a longer period. Compressors are quite costly investments. Make sure you purchase the best fit for your industrial or DIY home projects.
