When you are working on critical projects, you need a reliable piece of equipment by your side. Air compressors are mainly used for powering air tools, so they’re essential for completing quality work on time. There are two different air compressor variants to choose from — belt drive and direct air.
Rotary screw and piston air compressors are available in both comparison styles. A rotary screw air compressor produces positive displacement through the continuous sweeping motion of twin spiral screws. A piston air compressor uses a collection of one-way valves to deliver air into the chamber in a method similar to a small internal combustion engine.
A single-stage piston model draws air with a single piston stroke and sends it immediately to the storage tank, while a two-stage model sends the air to a smaller high-pressure piston for a second compression stage.
When it’s time to invest in one of these compressors, consider each machine’s capabilities to determine which one is best suited for your work.
Belt Driven Air Compressors
Belt drive air compressors have a V-shaped belt attached to the motor of the compressor pump. When you turn the machine on, the belt moves and powers the pump through the pulley system. Belt drive compressors excel in applications requiring you to adjust pressures for a job. For instance, if you have a tool that requires 90 psi and your air compressor reaches a max of 80 psi, you can replace the pulley to increase the compressor’s psi output.
With the simple maintenance practice of regular lubrication to the belt, belt drive compressors are highly reliable, and they run quietly. There’s also the added benefit that belt-driven compressors tend to be more affordable than other compressor options.
However, since this style of air compressor pump relies on a belt and pulleys, it will require attention. Belt-drive pumps also often have a lower transmission efficiency when utilized in extreme conditions or harsh temperatures.
Direct Drive Air Compressors
Direct drive air compressors do not have a belt or pulley system, as they are powered by a crankshaft connected directly to the motor. The crankshaft’s direct connection to the compressor causes the pump to rotate at the same speed as the motor.
The most significant benefit to this design is its lack of wear parts. Because it has a straightforward design, it requires less maintenance, and you save money on belt and pulley replacements. This compressor can also withstand the elements, including extreme temperatures, so common applications of direct drive compressors include outdoor work and providing air power in harsh industrial environments.
Some factors to consider are your budget and the noise. Because these air compressors have fewer parts, any malfunctions are more costly, and their ruggedness means they tend to cost more upfront. These machines are also much louder, so they’re not suited to confined areas.
The Pros and Cons of Belt Drives and Direct Drives
The belt drive and direct drive are both the ideal solution for air compressors across industries. Depending on your industry and project needs, other component specifications can help your team.
Belt Drives
Belt drives are useful in many situations, with unique advantages and disadvantages depending on your scenario.
The pros of the belt drive include the following:
- Economy: The belt drive is a simple and affordable solution. Maintenance is simple, with oil and filter changes needed every 500 to 1,000 hours of regular use.
- Durability: The belt drive has excellent shock absorption and vibration dampening. It can also protect your air compressor from experiencing an overload when the belt slips over a pulley.
There are also several considerations to make when choosing belt drives, including:
- Wear and tear: The velocity ratio can shift when impacted by belt slip. The belt drive’s operation also takes a significant toll on shafts and bearings.
- Power: The belts have a short service life when compared to other common methods of power transmission.
Direct Drives
Direct drives also have distinct advantages, including:
- Environment: The direct drive belt can handle temperatures below freezing as well as high summer temperatures for incredible versatility.
- Service life: Direct-drive air compressors have fewer components than their belt-drive compressor counterparts. Less complexity means this model requires less regular maintenance.
The direct drive also has significant drawbacks necessary to consider when choosing it for your project:
- Maintenance cost: Although the direct drive has less complexity, it often costs more to repair because of the connection between the crankshaft and the motor.
- Noise: A direct drive compressor can pose a health hazard in certain settings because of its extreme noise.
Which Should I Choose?
If you’re not sure which style you need, the best factor to consider is your + cubic feet per minute (CFM) requirements. The CFM of your tools compared to the CFM of the compressor will help you identify an option with the strength to handle your typical project. If the CFM is not listed on a given device, you can check online or in a manual.
Add the CFM of each air-powered tool together, then take 25 to 30% of that number and add it to the sum to cover any new devices you may add or current tools you left out. Compare your calculated CFM with the CFM of each compressor, and use those number comparisons to make an informed decision.
Troubleshooting Air Compressor Belts
Issues with air compressor belts can be a symptom of larger problems with compressor performance. For example, compressor vibration can reveal that your belt needs tightening. If you fail to maintain belt tension, this can lead to severe belt wear and failure. When a belt snaps or becomes unusable, the compressor and motor will stop working.
Quincy Compressor Has the Tools You Need to Do the Job Right
To learn more about the benefits and disadvantages of various air compressor styles, contact Quincy Compressor’s air experts today! We offer excellent customer service to help you invest in tools that make a positive difference in your work.
Last Updated on October 11, 2022 at 12:40 pm