The Smart Buyer’s Checklist: How to Invest in the Right Rotary Screw Air Compressor
A rotary screw air compressor is more than a piece of equipment — it’s the backbone of many industrial operations across the United States. Whether you operate a fabrication shop, automotive facility, manufacturing plant, or packaging line, your compressor directly impacts productivity, energy costs, and equipment lifespan. Making the right investment requires understanding both your operational needs and long-term business goals. This checklist-style guide will help you choose the ideal system with confidence. 1. Start with Your Real Air Demand — Not Just Horsepower One of the most common mistakes buyers make is choosing a compressor based solely on HP (horsepower). Instead, focus on: CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) – total airflow needed PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) – required operating pressure Calculate the total air demand of all connected tools and machinery. Then add a 20–30% buffer to accommodate peak loads and future expansion. An undersized compressor leads to pr...