What Is a Rotary Screw Air Compressor?

Compressors are often used in industrial applications, particularly when you need compressed gas to power machinery. Rotary screw air compressors can handle larger volumes of compressed gas in Wisconsin, which is useful for keeping a steady flow of compressed gas and lowering the vibration amount.

Here’s a brief overview of how this type of air compressor works and the benefits of using one.

Operation and uses

What is a rotary screw air compressor in Wisconsin? This type of compressor uses two closely meshed male and female helical screws to compress gas continuously. They can be dry or lubricated—the dry compressors’ screws don’t make contact, while the lubricated version uses oil to create a hydraulic seal and reduce wear and tear.

This type of air compressor is typically rated by its horsepower, pounds per square inch (PSI) and standard cubic feet per minute (SCFM). They can range from five to 500 horsepower, and the upper pressure limit is 125 PSI.

Since rotary screw air compressors run smoothly, with minimal vibration, they’re ideal for chillers, jackhammers and impact wrenches, among other common uses. Unlike other air compressors, there’s little pulsation or flow surges, which makes them more efficient.

Benefits of rotary screw air compressors

Here’s a closer look at some of the biggest advantages of working with rotary screw air compressors in Wisconsin:

  • Continuous flow: Having a large volume of compressed gas constantly available makes it possible for rotary screw air compressors to offer continuous flow. This makes them convenient.
  • Safe to use: Rotary screw air compressors are incredibly safe to use—accidents involving these tools are extremely rare.
  • Low vibration: These air compressors are designed to reduce vibration, which makes them suitable for a variety of purposes. It also limits the amount of wear and tear over time.
  • Powerful: Since the air flow rates are quite high, they’re powerful enough to propel large pieces of machinery, like jackhammers.
  • Quieter: Rotary screw air compressors are surprisingly quiet. Because the vibration is so low, they’re about as loud as a dishwasher or washing machine. Unlike many industrial tools, you can be in the room and still have a conversation while they’re running.
  • Can operate in extreme weather: Whether you’re working in the ice and snow or in extreme heat, rotary screw air compressors will function smoothly and continuously, without generating a lot of heat.
  • Uses less energy and oil: This type of air compressor is both energy efficient and reduces the amount of oil you’ll use. With minimal oil carryovers, wherever you use them, the room will be cooler and drier.
  • Can last decades: Finally, rotary screw air compressors are designed to last for decades, as long as you keep up with regular maintenance. Maintenance is particularly easy, since they have 70 percent fewer parts than other air compressors. Stick with a regular maintenance schedule to get the best results.

Wenniger Compressor Co. is Wisconsin’s source for rotary screw air compressor sales and service. Whether you’re looking for new machinery or want to maintain your existing compressors, we can help. Call us today to get started.

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