How can an oil-free air compressor benefit the environment?

Air compressors are a valuable tool within the construction industry and for home DIY use. They are essential for powering pneumatic tools, such as nail guns, to speed things along and reduce the initial costs of these tools.

Air-powered tools provide you with more performance and power than traditional industry tools and only require just a few routine maintenance procedures and they can last many years. Not only do they last a long time, but they are also versatile. You are only required to purchase one air compressor and you will be able to use this with a wide range of tools such as sanders, drills and screwdrivers. Take a look at how one works below:

Currently, the forefront of many businesses’ minds is how we can reduce our carbon footprint within the company, reduce waste and lower our carbon emissions.

But with so many machines on the market, how can we ensure we are choosing the best air compressor for the environment?

Due to their robust nature, most industrial settings will opt for a dual-phase compressor instead of a single-phase. A single-phase machine is much smaller and lighter, so they make the perfect compressor for home workshop use.

When looking at the speed of your potential air compressor, there is the choice between fixed and variable speed (also known as VSD (Variable Speed Drive) or VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) compressors).

A VSD will automatically adjust the speed of the motor in accordance with the demand for air which means no energy will be wasted and you will only use what is needed for the task at hand.

You must decide how your air compressor is lubricated. All air compressors require lubrication to safely and effectively draw in air into the cylinder. This can be achieved by two methods, oil and oil-free.

Oil-based machines are more durable; however, they do require more maintenance as there are extra components.

Oil-free air compressors, such as those provided at directair.co.uk, require far less maintenance, not only do they contain fewer components, they do not require checks or top-up to maintain lubrication. Greasing is achieved with a non-stick coating, typically Teflon.

When you choose an oil-free air compressor you will obtain the highest quality, cleanest air for manufacturing needs. This also means they are perfectly suited to medical and food industries as they eliminate the risk of contamination from oil.

This, in turn, will also drastically reduce your machine’s negative environmental effects as it will reduce harmful emissions, help to conserve natural resources and provide a cost-efficient, clean and reliable source of air supply.

Not only will this have a positive impact on the environment, but you can also substantially reduce the running costs of your air compressor.

You will not have to pay for the costs of collecting and disposing of oil-laden condensate. Oil-free air compressors also do not require the cost to replace broken down filtration systems or having to pay for any spoiled or ruined products throughout production due to oil contamination. These machines also reduce energy use, meaning utility bills will be lower.

They are also safer as they eradicate the potential for compressed air pipeline fires, which could put your staff and property in danger.

One small downside of an oil-free air compressor is they typically make more noise than an oil-free. Therefore, if you believe this could be an annoyance to you and your staff, consider investing in a low-noise air compressor which reduced noise levels to a low decibel rating of around 40dB.

Overall, an oil-free air compressor is a worthwhile investment for any eco-conscience industry that are wanting to reduce their impact on the environment while saving costs and reducing health and safety risks.

See more oil-free compressors here