Air Compressors

Most analytical instruments specify air to ISO 8573 1 class 1 or 2 for oil and particles, with a pressure dew point well below the coldest point in the system. Oil free compressors paired with appropriate filtration achieve this most reliably. Check each instrument's manual for its stated class, since one demanding instrument sets the specification for the whole supply.

Sum the consumption of every connected device in litres per minute, apply a simultaneity factor, and add at least a quarter for growth and leaks. Duty cycle matters as much as peak flow, since piston and scroll units need rest periods while screw compressors run continuously. Receiver volume smooths intermittent demand and lets a smaller compressor serve peaky loads.

Ask for total running hours and the service log, then inspect for oil leaks, unusual vibration and corrosion in the receiver, which is a pressure vessel with statutory inspection requirements in the UK. On screw machines, airend condition is the big ticket item, so listen for bearing noise under load. A pressure vessel without current written scheme certification needs that cost built into your offer.

They can be, if paired with validated coalescing and activated carbon filtration that brings oil content within the required class, though the filtration then needs disciplined maintenance. Many labs prefer oil free machines simply because they remove the failure mode entirely. For direct product contact or breathing air applications, oil free supply with appropriate monitoring is the defensible choice.

Transport is agreed directly between you and the seller through Machinery Masters, and most compressors travel palletised or skidded by standard freight. Confirm who handles loading, offloading and positioning into the plant room, since that final move often needs specialist handling. Factoring installation, pipework and commissioning into the total project cost avoids surprises after the machine lands.