When it comes to running a business, there are a lot of factors to consider in order to ensure its success. One of the most important pieces of equipment in any business is an air compressor.
Air compressors are used in a variety of industries for a variety of purposes, which is why it’s so important to choose the right one for your specific needs.
Main types of air compressors
There are two main types of air compressors:
Reciprocating
Reciprocating air compressors work by using pistons to compress air and then store it in a tank.
Rotary screw
Rotary screw air compressors, on the other hand, use two meshing helical screws to draw air into the compressor.
So, what’s the difference between the two?
And more importantly, Why Rotary Screw Air Compressors are the Better for businesses?
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each type of air compressor to help you make the best decision for your business:
Reciprocating Air Compressors:
Pros:
– Cheaper than rotary screw air compressors
– Can be used for intermittent tasks
– Smaller and more portable than rotary screw air compressors
Cons:
– Noisy
– Vibrate more than rotary screw air compressors, which can lead to premature wear and tear
– Not as efficient as rotary screw air compressors
– Have shorter lifespans than rotary screw air compressors
– require more maintenance than rotary screw air compressors
Rotary Screw Air Compressors:
Pros:
– More expensive than reciprocating air compressors up front, but ultimately cheaper over time due to their longer lifespan and lower maintenance costs
– More efficient than reciprocating air compressors, which means they use less energy and therefore cost less to operate over time
– Less noisy than reciprocating air compressors
– Vibrate less than reciprocating air compressors, which leads to less wear and tear over time
– Have longer lifespans than reciprocating air compressors (15,000+ hours compared to 8,000 hours)
– Require less maintenance than reciprocating air compressors (just need an oil change every 2,000 hours)
Conclusion:
As you can see, there are a lot of factors to consider when choosing an air compressor for your business. Ultimately, rotary screw air compressors are the better choice for businesses because they’re more efficient and have longer lifespans. They may be more expensive up front, but they’ll save you money in the long run due to their low maintenance costs.

Olivia Archer provides in-depth coverage of air compressors, air compressor accessories, tire inflators and all things related to air compressors. She is a mechanical engineer and air compressor expert with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the industry.
Olivia’s articles are informative, well-researched and provide readers with valuable insights and information to help them make informed decisions when purchasing air compressors and accessories. She is passionate about the industry and is always looking for new ways to share her knowledge and expertise with readers. When she’s not writing for the website, Olivia can be found working on her own DIY projects, experimenting with different tools and techniques, and expanding her knowledge of the industry.