Air compressors are boxlike, towable machines that supply and store high-pressured air...Show More
Air compressors are boxlike, towable machines that supply and store high-pressured air. They can be used for tasks like inflating tires or as a power source for a variety of electric tools including jackhammers, air drills, nail guns, and paving breakers. Electric-powered air compressors are ideal for indoor use because they don’t give off any emissions.
An air compressor’s flow rate is expressed in terms of cubic feet per minute (CFM) at a given pressure level—the amount of force a compressor can deliver—measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). For instance, you might need a 185 to 375 CFM compressor at 90 PSI for a small or moderate task, or 750 to 1,600 CFM at the same pressure level for a heavy-duty job. Check out the FAQs below to learn more.
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AAir compressor rental costs vary according to size and flow capacity. A 185 CFM diesel air compressor that can power blasting pots or jackhammers can rent for $114 a day, $312 a week, or $754 a month. A larger 1,600 CFM compressor that can provide air at higher PSI for an extended period will run you $710 a day, $2,031 a week, or $4,914 a month. Exact rates may vary depending on your worksite location.
Check for quotes on other compressors that BigRentz offers including 375 CFM and 750 CFM machines.
The easiest way to determine what size air compressor you need is to check the air requirements on your tools. The average drill requires 3-6 CFM at 90 PSI and the average orbital sander requires 8-12.5 CFM at 90 PSI.
Compressors can power an array of tools for tasks including sawing, nailing, chiseling, cutting, painting, and sanding. The tools you need for each of these jobs will likely require a different CFM—more for heavy-duty jobs that require a continuous flow of air.
Depending on the type of air compressor you’re using, it can be left running anywhere from a few hours to 24 hours a day (seven days a week for compressors on ships or planes). Rotary screw compressors, discussed below, have an internal cooling system that enables them to operate continuously. However, reciprocating compressors are not designed for continuous use. They need to stop and cool down, or the parts can become damaged.
Air compressors fall into two categories: positive displacement and dynamic compressors. Within those categories, there are multiple types of air compressors.
Positive displacement compressors store air from the outside in an internal cavity, where it’s slowly compressed. Two common types of positive displacement compressors include:
Dynamic compressors can reach 1,000 horsepower or more. They use fast-rotating blades to pull air in rapidly, then create pressure by restricting the air. Two types of dynamic compressors include: