Air Compressors

Air Pressure Regulator: A device that is used to adjust the air pressure (PSI) in air lines found in air tools and equipment.

Alternating Current (AC): Voltage that increases to a maximum positive (+) and falls back to zero and then continues to a maximum negative (-) and back to zero.

Amperes (Amps): A unit to measure the flow of an electrical current.

ASME: American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

Cast Iron Sleeve: A device within an engine cylinder that reduces wear and tear, prolonging the life of the unit.

CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): The volume of air (in cubic feet) that a compressor can pump in one minute at a specific working pressure (PSI). In other words, CFM measures the total air flow. An air compressor’s CFM rating is the best way to gauge its overall performance. Each device that you want to power with your compressor will have a required amount of CFM. Your air compressor must be able to produce more CFM than your tool requires in order for the tool to run smoothly.

Circuit Breaker: A thermal switch that turns the unit off if too much current is passing through. This device prevents an air compressor from overworking, ultimately prolonging its life.

Compact Air Compressor: Unlike piston-type units, compact air compressors do not have storage tanks. Therefore, they need to be continuously running in order to generate air pressure. They are typically less powerful than piston-type compressors, and ideal for projects at home.

Direct Current (DC): An electric current flowing in one direction only.

Hertz (Hz): A unit representing the measurement of one cycle per second.

Low Oil Shutdown: A feature found in many air compressors which automatically shuts the engine off when oil levels are low.

OHV (Overhead Valve): A type of engine that has valves placed above the piston head. These engines are generally more expensive than other models, but are also longer lasting and easier to start. In addition, OHV engines produce low emissions and are extremely quiet to run.

Piston-Type Compressors: This type of compressor stores compressed air in a tank. Pistons compress and deliver the air to the storage tank. The compressed air is then released to generate the power necessary to running your tools or equipment.

PSI (Pounds per Square Inch): The measure of air pressure delivered by a compressor.

RPM: Revolutions per minute

SCFM (Standard Cubic Feet per Minute): CFM can vary depending on the surrounding temperature, humidity, and altitude. Therefore, air tools and compressors are measured in SCFM. This indicates the amount of CFM that will be produced at sea level, at 68 degrees F, and 36% relative humidity.

Single Stage Compressors: Members of the piston-type compressor family, single-stage units have one piston which works to compress air. Generally speaking, single-stage units are for light-duty projects and won’t generate much more than 100-150 PSI.

Two Stage Compressors: Members of the piston-type compressor family, two-stage units have two pistons that compress and distribute air. The advantage of the second piston is that it allows the air to be compressed even further. Ultimately, this will allow the compressor to generate more power. Two-stage compressors allow more air to be stored. This means they won’t have to work as hard to generate power, which ultimately extends the life of the compressor. These units are ideal for heavy-duty commercial or industrial applications.

U.L. (Underwriters Laboratory): Products are manufactured, tested, and inspected to standards that are set by the U.L.