Step 1: list your air users
Typical users are air guns for blowing and drying, tyre inflation, pneumatic tools and any air-operated pumps. Find the air consumption of each tool in its manual.
Step 2: add demand and apply a margin
Add the consumption of tools that run at the same time, allow for leaks and future growth (a margin of around 25 to 30 per cent is a common rule of thumb), and compare with the compressor free-air delivery at your working pressure.
Step 3: check pressure and tank
The compressor must supply at least the highest pressure any tool needs. The tank is a buffer that smooths demand; it does not replace airflow.
Step 4: power supply and duty
Confirm single- or three-phase supply. Piston compressors are normally not meant to run continuously, so choose a size that runs part of the time rather than all day.
Our configurations
We list belt-driven compressors in 250 L tank sizes with 2, 3 and 5 HP motors and a 300 L tank with 7.5 HP. Ask us for the airflow at working pressure of the model you are considering. See air compressors.