A rotary screw compressor uses two helical screws that seamlessly compress air as they pass through. While it is a highly efficient and capable compressor used for most compressed air needs, selection requires a bit of brainstorming.
In this detailed blog post, we have eased the process of brainstorming by clearly describing the steps you need to choose the right rotary screw compressor for your plant. Read through and select the right one!
A] Why Selecting the Right Rotary Screw Compressor Matters
Every plant has its own specific requirements, and adhering to these requirements when choosing rotary screw compressors is what makes the investment fruitful. Consequences of choosing poorly matched compressors yield higher electricity bills, random pressure drops, premature wear, and even equipment downtime. Ultimately, it has a direct impact on long-term efficiency and the quality of the product. Therefore, always choose the right rotary screw compressor that truly aligns with the business.
Let’s dive deep to find out the core factors that must be considered before choosing the right rotary screw air compressor:
B] Core Factors to Consider Before Selecting a Rotary Screw Compressor
1. Air Demand & Usage Pattern
Air demand and usage patterns are one of the primary factors that determine the efficiency of the production line. Assessing the air demands ensures the pressure and flow rate are optimum for the process. On the other hand, assess which air usage pattern your production line runs on: is it continuous, intermittent, or fluctuating? Assessing both correctly ensures you have the right rotary screw compressor as far as air demand and usage pattern concerns.
2. Required Operating Pressure
Process needs vary across processes. Selecting high or low operating pressure leads to either hampering connected pneumatic tools or frequent maintenance. Therefore, determining the middle ground for operating pressure (PSI/Bar requirements) is the safest for varying processes.
3. Compressor Duty Cycle & Load Type
Compressor duty cycle and load type are other significant selection factors. In the duty cycle, you need to assess whether your process requires a fixed-speed compressor with 80-100% duty cycles or variable-speed drive (VSD) units. Similarly, assessing load cycles allows you to select the right rotary screw compressor, be it continuous or fluctuating, based on the process demand.
4. Energy Efficiency & Operational Cost
Oversized and undersized compressors ultimately cost you a lot if they are not aligned with your process demands. Efficiency and power consumption ratings are the vital selection factors that highly influence your total cost of ownership. Ensure you go with maximum efficiency ratings to reduce the operational costs, both in the short and long terms.
5. Installation Conditions
The conditions of the environment where the compressor is to be installed highly impact the performance and lifespan of the compressor. Therefore, choose only the models of rotary screw compressors that fit into the ventilation, temperature, dust level, and space constraints of the installation area.
C] Steps for Choosing a Rotary Screw Compressor
Step 1: Match CFM Output to Actual Demand
Selecting a screw compressor based on capacity and pressure requires air-demand calculation to match the CFM output to actual demand. To do that, firstly, calculate your total air demand by listing all air tools and equipment with their required CFM (cubic feet per minute) and PSI (pounds per square inch) ratings. After calculating all CFM and PSI, add a safety margin of 20-30% to withstand peak demands, leaks, or future growth. Typically, 90 to 120 PSI is the highest pressure requirement for most industrial uses.
Step 2: Choose the Correct Pressure Rating
The pressure rating (usually in PSI) of the compressor depicts the power it can deliver. So, choose only the model that has enough pressure rating (including safety margin) to match the air demand needs without extra energy loss.
Step 3: Select the Right Technology for Your Plant
Whether you need the oil or oil-free screw compressor, the decision totally depends on the level of clean air required to manufacture the product your business makes. The selection of the right technology not only boosts the business’s efficiency but also elevates the brand’s reputation. So, choose wisely.
Step 4: Compare Models Based on Efficiency & TCO
Compare different models of screw air compressors and choose the model that fits your required production efficiency and TCO (Total Cost of Ownership). Manufacturers offer tools to calculate TCO to ensure you invest for the long term. If you are confused, it is advised to contact the rotary screw air compressor manufacturer and supplier for better guidance.
Step 5: Ensure Reliable After-Sales Support
After assessing all the needs and demands, contact only a reliable rotary screw compressor manufacturer, like Bimpex. Because, as time passes, the mechanical machines need service and parts changes. So, ensure you only choose a manufacturer that not only offers a warranty and original part availability but also stands by you when your compressor needs services and maintenance. Bimpex excels at all the services that have been stated above.
D] Why Expert Guidance Simplifies the Selection Process
As described above, choosing the right rotary screw compressor can be complex due to varying plant needs and technical specifications. That’s why Bimpex recommends always contacting an expert rotary screw compressor manufacturer to avoid miscalculations. Bimpex is an expert partner in evaluating plant load, application type, and future growth to recommend the ideal compressor.
Conclusion
A rotary screw compressor is a highly efficient compressor that is technologically equipped to support most industrial uses. Follow the suggested steps to avoid oversized and undersized compressors and choose the right rotary screw air compressor.
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Bimpex is a trusted air compressor supplier, widely popular for offering cost-effective, durable, and quality rotary screw compressors. They are engineered with modern technology, resulting in low noise, high efficiency, and suitability across processes. Contact us now!