What is an Air compressor?

An air compressor is a machine that forces more air into a space than was originally there, as there is more air than normal in this confined space the air pressure rises and this allows us to use the release of the air to power a number of processes, from construction tools to industrial manufacturing processes.

It is a little like a dam, where the dam builds up the level of water until it is released the compressor builds up the air pressure, when the dam allows some water to flow the water pressure can be harnessed to drive machinery, the same is true for the released air from the compressor.

The air is forced into a storage tank connected to the compressor, the amount of stored air will vary depending on the use you need to put it to, but it can range from small hand held air compressors used to blow up beach balls and air mattresses to huge industrial units that help run factory machinery.

What are are compressors used for

There are a very large number of usages the air compressor can be put to, I have one that I use to blow up an air mattress for when I have guests, it has different attachments that allow me to use it to blow up the mattress, beach balls balloons and other similar objects, this small hand held device is not very powerful, it is designed to work on small jobs where traditionally you would use your own lung power to blow up the ball. It is a small hand held compressor that runs on batteries.

I also have a larger unit that can run a variety of construction tools, originally it was used with a nail gun, but it has attachments that include a paint sprayer, some people use these to respray their cars, a pneumatic hammer, this is excellent for repetitive tasks that would be hard work to do with a traditional hammer.

It also has a compressed air gun trigger, this is very useful for blowing out debris trapped in hard to reach areas, I would always recommend you wear safety goggles and read the safety instructions before you use any tools including an air compressor as they can be dangerous if not handled with the proper care and attention.

Are their different types of air compressor

There are a number of different types of air compressor, these differences can be in size, power what they run on and in what they are used for, if you buy an air compressor it is best to ensure you get the one that is best suited for your needs, one that has a verity of attachments is normally a good idea.

My compressors run off batteries and the mains although you can get diesel and gas powered ones, the use you are going to put your air compressor too should help guide you on what sort is best for your needs, the most powerful air compressor may not be as portable as you need so before buying a generator it is best to consider why you need it and what are your requirements going to be in the future.

Some of the choices you have will include

• 12v air compressor
• silent air compressor
• air compressor pumps
• air compressor regulator
• air compressor tanks
• 60 gallon air compressor
• quiet air compressor
• diesel air compressor
• small air compressor
• husky air compressors
• porter cable air compressor
• cheap air compressors