Questions You Should Know about High Pressure Air Compressor

Table of Contents

How 'high' is high pressure for an air compressor?

There are many different types of air compressors. A common denominator amongst all of them is PSI or pounds per square inch. This is how we measure the 'strength' of a compressor.

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A standard 'household' air compressor is often used for various applications such as drill and nail guns, impact wrenches, sanders, inflating tires, and more. These typically have about 90 PSI.

Conversely, a high-pressure air compressor has a lot more power. It can compress air as high as PSI.

What is a high-pressure industrial or breathing air compressor used for?

High-pressure air compressors are often used for industrial applications and breathing air.

Industrial Air Compressors

Within the industrial space, there are many common uses for high-pressure compressors.

• Manufacturing processes

  • Blow molding
  • Powering tools and equipment
  • Sandblasting

• Testing and quality control

  • Valve testing
  • Leak testing
  • Heat exchangers testing

• Energy production

  • Conventional and renewable energy sectors
  • Fuel atomization and combustion control
  • Hydraulic fracturing

• Oil and gas 

  • Extraction and processing

Breathing Air Compressors

High-pressure air compressors play a crucial role in providing breathing air for various applications, particularly in environments where a reliable source of clean, pressurized air is essential for safety and performance.

• SCUBA Diving
• Firefighting
• Military applications
• Industrial and off-shore use

All breathing air compressors must meet stringent air standards set by C.G.A (Compressed Gas Association), and the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association).

How do high-pressure industrial or breathing air compressors work?

High-pressure industrial and breathing air compressors operate through a multi-stage compression process to achieve the necessary high pressures. Initially, air is drawn into the compressor and compressed in stages, with each stage followed by cooling to dissipate heat generated during compression. This cooling is essential, as it helps maintain efficiency and prevents overheating of the compressor components. The air is compressed to pressures as high as PSI, making it suitable for various applications, including SCUBA diving, firefighting, and industrial processes.

In addition to compression, the air undergoes purification to meet stringent quality standards, particularly for breathing air applications. After the final compression stage, moisture separators and filters remove any contaminants, ensuring that the compressed air is clean and safe for use. This comprehensive process allows high-pressure compressors to deliver reliable, high-quality air for critical applications while maintaining equipment longevity and performance.

What is 'breathing air'?

Breathing air is compressed atmospheric air. Unlike Nitrox or other formulated air types, compressed breathing air is not enriched in any way. It is only purified atmospheric air. With the correct purification system breathing air can meet all the standards required for diving as well as firefighting and safety applications. The quality of compressed breathing air is highly dependent on the surroundings of the compressor or where the intake air comes from.

Our compressors produce high-quality breathing air that meets the standards of NFPA and CGA Grade E breathing air. The expandable built-in filtration allows you to extend the time between filter change-outs while ensuring that your air is as clean as you need it to be. Our optional electronic Carbon Monoxide (CO) monitors provide continuous monitoring and peace of mind for the machine operators.

What does a standard high-pressure compressor system look like?

A standard high-pressure compressor system for use in breathing air and SCBA / SCUBA filling consists of a compressor, storage cylinders, and a containment fill station. 

Standard air system

High-Pressure Breathing Air Compressor

UN/ISO Storage Cylinders

Containment Fill Station

High-pressure compressors and storage systems are typically designed to exceed the pressure requirements of secondary tanks or canisters. This design principle accommodates the cascade filling method, which is commonly used in breathing air systems.

For example, our compressors are often rated at PSI, allowing for effortless filling of cylinders ranging from to PSI by simply adjusting the output pressure regulator. In most setups, fill stations are connected to a cascade storage system rather than directly to the compressor. These fill stations usually feature an integrated cascade control panel for efficient operation

What types of compressors does Arctic Compressor sell?

Enclosed high-pressure air compressors

An enclosed frame compressor offers the functionality of the open frame compressor in a nicer-looking, quieter, and smaller footprint build. Built in a block-over motor configuration, these models take up less floor space and are enclosed in a sound-dampening cabinet. Outfitted with a vibration reduction system, these compressors are well suited for use in manned shops where noise and vibration are a concern. The availability of additional features such as a built-in electronic CO monitor and larger standard internal filtration wrap everything you need into one functional design.

Types of enclosed compressors available

Arctic Series Enclosed Compressor

CFM

18 - 24 CFM

Pressure

PSI

dB Levels

83dB

filtration

57,000 - 90,000 Cu. Ft.

Power

15 - 20 HP

Arctic Series Enclosed Compressor

CFM

9 - 14 CFM

Pressure

PSI

dB Levels

76 dB

filtration

24,000 - 57,000 Cu. Ft.

Power

7.5 - 10 HP

Arctic Series Enclosed Compressor

CFM

8 - 9 CFM

Pressure

- PSI

dB Levels

76 dB

filtration

24,000 - 57,000 Cu. Ft.

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Power

7.5 HP

Open Frame high-pressure air compressors

An open frame compressor has all the necessary features and none of the frills. In general, the unit will have a base and frame, with open sides and front. Within the frame, you have the motor (electric, diesel, or gas) the compressor block, a small filtration system and the drain for the moisture separators. Open frame compressors have a slightly larger footprint as they are normally a side-by-side motor and block build. Additional filtration can be wall or stand-mounted if desired.

Types of open-frame Compressors available

Arctic Open-Frame Compressor

CFM

8 - 14 CFM

Pressure

- PSI

dB Levels

92 dB

filtration

9,800 - 24,000 Cu. Ft.

Power

7.5 - 10 HP

, , and PSI air compressors

The PSI configuration of your industrial compressor depends on your needs. At Arctic Compressor, we manufacture compressors that produce up to PSI. Our standard compressor models produce PSI and PSI and are usually used to fill fire department PSI and PSI SCBA air packs. We can also set the compressors to produce lower pressure air as needed such as the PSI or PSI.

Maintenance of a Arctic Compressor High-Pressure Compressor

Arctic Compressor works through an authorized distributor network for sales and service to ensure that experienced technicians are close to you. These service technicians are trained by us and able to perform all installations, routine maintenance, and repair services on our equipment. If you choose to perform your own routine maintenance the list is short and sweet: 

Daily operation checks

Below is a list of items that you should check before every operation of your Arctic Compressor. This can be done by you or your team.  

• Checking oil level
• Checking condensate drain container
• Checking auto drain system operation
• Checking CO/moisture indicator

Bi-Annual and Annual Services

Below is a list of items that should be checked bi-annually or annually by a certified service technician. Contact your dealer to get a time scheduled! 

• Oil change
• Purification filter change
• Check fittings and hoses for leaks
• Check drive belt
• Particulate intake filter (rotate, or replace)

What should I consider when purchasing a high-pressure air compressor?

Many factors affect the cost of a high-pressure compressor. In the market, there is a wide range of price points as well as a range of functionality. The cost of a high-pressure compressor depends on your needs, such as:

• What pressure do you need?
• What volume of output (CFM) do you need?
• Is noise a factor?
• How much space do you have available?
• Do you need a 3 or 4-stage compressor?
• How quickly  do you need the system installed? 

At Arctic Compressor we are able to provide great value to our customers at a competitive price point without sacrificing any of the key functions of the equipment. Our Compressors, Fill Stations, Mobile Solutions, parts and accessories, and business are built on the model of being 'The Simple Choice'. Our equipment is simple to install, operate, and maintain. By eliminating many of the complexities from the operation of our compressors, we enable you to get the job done.

Who sells high-pressure industrial and breathing air compressors?

No, it does not. However after an install, you should power up the system from 0 to whatever the cut-off pressure is and check for any leaks that may be present.

In order to determine what size compressor will meet your requirements you need to establish how it will be used. For example, if you will be using it to power air tools, then you need to determine the CFM of each tool. There are many applications for air compressors. If you need help deciding which size is best for you, please contact Mi'T'M at 800-553- and we will be happy to assist you.

Air pressure is determined by the highest minimum pressure requirement. For example, some tools consume more air than others. Tools such as pneumatic nail-guns and staplers consume smaller amounts of air, while air grinders and sprayers consume larger amounts. Most tools have an usage rating for CFM consumption at a recommended PSI. This can be found on the tool itself or in the owner's manual supplied by the tool manufacturer. Click here to view our Air Equipment Estimating Guide Link to Air Equipment Estimating Guide.

The notation CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) refers to a volume of air produced by the air compressor at a given pressure or PSI (Pound per Square Inch). The right size air compressor will meet your needs in two essential areas: air flow (CFM) and pressure (PSI). It's important to get a compressor that meets your needs in both areas - otherwise you risk damage to both your tools and the compressor itself. Always use CFM and PSI specifications from the nameplate on the product.

On a single stage pump the air is compressed one time and stored in a receiver. A two stage pump compresses the air twice, once in the first cylinder and then a second time in a smaller cylinder which gives you a higher CFM.

A reciprocating compressor is a very flexible piece of equipment but some cautions must be taken for an installation site selection. Refer to the instruction manual that is supplied with each unit. Some things to consider:

1. You need a level floor and vibration mounting pads are recommended
2. The compressor should be installed in a well ventilated room.
3. The compressor must have approximately a 24" clearance from the walls to allow for the designed air flow. This will also allow sufficient room for workmen to do normal scheduled maintenance.
4. The discharge line into the air system should not be smaller than the compressor discharge port size.
5. The shipping skid should NOT be used as part of the mounting base

No, this is not recommended as the compressor unit must not come in direct contact with the elements. The best practice is to either put a lean-to over the unit or install it in a small building. If installed under a lean-to, we recommend a TEFC motor and NEMA 12 electrical enclosures. Also, when necessary cold weather protection for the oil and other lubricants is recommended.

Yes, the higher air pressure will increase the amount of stored air. At 175 PSIG an 80 gallon tank will store 127 cu. ft. of air. The same 80 gallon tank at 100 PSIG will store only 73 cu. ft. of air.

No, this is not up to the approved code for compressed air systems. The PVC is an oil based product and it does not react properly to heat, vibrations and oil vapor that is carried in the air compressor discharge air. The PVC is prone to bursting under the normal air pressure and unit operations. Consult your local building inspector for piping recommendations.

We recommend using non detergent oils that has been formulated for use in reciprocating compressors. DO NOT USE DETERGENT OILS in the compressor. The detergent oils will foam and cause excessive oil carryover past the piston rings and will not provide the required lubricity for the moving parts.

For a Reciprocating air compressor, generally you would change the oil and the air filter approximately every 3 months. For a more accurate time frame, contact Mi'T'M at 800-553- with your air compressor model number and we will help you find the recommended schedule for your compressor.

Starter

The starter is a magnetic device that induces electricity into the motor windings to energize them for work. The starter gets its signal from the pressure switch.

Pressure Switch

It measures the cut in and cut out pressure bands for the compressor start and stop settings and either turns the motor on or off as needed.

After Cooler

An after cooler is a device that uses air flow to cool the compressor discharge air temperature prior to being put into the tank for storage. This cooling function will drop out moisture that is in the compressed air.

For more information, please visit High Pressure Air Compressor.