CE EQUIPMENT CONNECTION - Compact Equipment

One way to determine if a compressor is right is by looking
at its “design margin.” Design margin is the ideal operating
level of a machine — the level at which a machine can
produce without working too hard.
One of the most important components of any portable
compressor is the engine. Most portable air compressors
are rated as either continuous or intermittent duty. For
compressors that run all the time, engine horsepower
“margin” (ideal operating level) is typically 85 percent of its
maximum rated horsepower. Compressors that are stopped
and started repeatedly have a horsepower margin of 93
percent of their maximum output.
The engine is the item on the compressor that experiences
the highest amount of wear, according to Flatt. “The actual
compressor doesn’t wear or cause problems. As long as the
manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is
regularly followed and care is taken with the engine, the
compressor will have a long working life.”
Contractors should also be confi dent that the engine is
going to last. Flatt suggests investing in an engine that has
a warranty to back it up and is convenient to have serviced.
“The perfect situation for any purchaser is to buy a piece of
equipment, put it to work in the fi eld and never hear about
it again,” says Flatt.
Options to Consider
Compressors come standard with tail lights and clearance
lights to adhere to government safety regulations, but other
features such as composite end panels, which are more
corrosion resistant and better withstand jobsite conditions,
will help distinguish competitive models.
“A-frame towbars provide greater stability to the unit
during towing because of its wider base design,” says
Flatt, “and lockable latches that protect the unit against
vandalism, are both options that don’t always come
standard but should be considered when purchasing a
compressor.”
Other options to keep in mind when choosing your
compressor are: diagnostic display lights, a generator, a
central drain line and independent torsional suspension,
as well as additional choices, including hoses and fi ttings,
a hose reel, a larger battery, an adjustable hitch, a spare tire
and electric and hydraulic brakes.
An Important Factor
According to Flatt, the most important intangible factor to
consider when making a purchase is the sales support that
comes with the compressor — parts, service, warranties and
the relationship with the dealer.
The dealer should serve as a consultant when selecting the
best compressor. Once the application for the compressor
is determined, the dealer should be able to help match
the intended use to a specifi c compressor size. The dealer
should also be able to provide a guarantee of support after
the sale.
“The reputation of the compressor manufacturer and the
brand name on the product drive customers in this market
to buy,” says Flatt. “If a dealer or a manufacturer’s support
network doesn’t satisfy contractor needs, purchase from one
that does. In the end, sales support is the most valuable part
of the purchase.”
Amber Reed is a technical writer with Performance Marketing in
West Des Moines, Iowa.
A good guide to follow when selecting a compressor is to size the compressor for the maximum tool-to-cfm ratio of the tools
expected to be used. For instance, the largest paving breaker might be approximately 85 cfm; therefore, to operate
one breaker a 90-cfm compressor is needed and for two breakers a 185-cfm sized compressor is needed.
34 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com