Work with a pneumatic tool requires the use of a compressor unit. The main area of operation of such a tool covers car services, small workshops, household needs and individual production sites. Therefore, a low-power compressed air supply station for such needs may not be enough, and an industrial unit is not practical due to incompatibility with pneumatic requirements. The best option may be a belt compressor, which provides medium power and pressure characteristics, but at the same time has a high degree of reliability.
Features of belt compressor
The main structural feature of such machines is a belt drive. Despite the criticism of this device, noting the wear of the belt, the correct ratio of the power of the pneumatic equipment and the air supply station gives reason to count on a long operational period of installation. Moreover, piston belt compressors are quite amenable to updating individual components.
What does the user receive from the belt drive in practice? First of all, it is a decrease in temperature in the process of generating air flows and maintaining the reliability of the internal element base. These advantages are achieved due to the lower engine speed while maintaining optimal performance and a more efficient cooling system. In addition , the belt compressor allows the use of modern air filters and dehumidifiers, which also have a beneficial effect on performance.
Key Features of Belt Compressors
It should be noted right away that belt assemblies are professional and household. The first group provides a power potential of 4 kW, while models for home use and small workshops have 1.5-2 kW. The next important characteristic is the volume of the receiver. The larger the capacity, the higher the air supply level, which minimizes the number of stop and start cycles. Again, professional models have a receiver volume of up to 200 liters, while household models are provided with 50-100 liters. But it is important to note here that a belt-driven compressor with an air supply in the receiver of more than 100 l cools faster. As for pressure, it averages 8-10 bar, regardless of whether the unit belongs to the domestic or professional segment. By the way, this indicator is key in terms of compatibility of the pneumatic tool and the compressor itself.
Model FUBAG VCF / 100 CM3
The manufacturer FUBAG is one of the leaders in the segment, regularly confirming the high reliability and functionality of its products. In this case, we are talking about an average power plant, which can be considered as universal. A distinctive feature of the modification is the combination of an effective heat dissipation system, performance and maneuverability. Structural optimization was given special attention, which allowed us to offer an air belt compressor with ergonomic devices for transportation and a volumetric 100-liter receiver. The model is also equipped with two pressure gauges, which allow a high degree of accuracy to control the compressor operating parameters.
Model "Caliber KM-2100 / 50P"
A small in size, but also effective by the standards of its class unit, which is suitable for paintwork, rust removal, blowing surfaces and other operations standard for pneumatics. Due to the balanced combination of pressure and power indicators, the installation has a high working resource, which determines the durability of the structure. A belt compressor of this modification is provided and, at first glance, insignificant, but tangible in practice, using elements of thoughtful ergonomics. Among them, it is worth highlighting the measuring eye for convenient visual control of the oil level, and the handles on the body, facilitating transportation operations.
Model Fiac AB 300-7.5 F
The Italian company presents a model for industrial use, characterized by increased productivity. Compared with similar compressors of this class, the model operates at medium frequencies, which reduces the wear rate of the piston group. This is due to the fact that parts in the process of a working action heat up less and practically do not undergo deforming processes. In addition, as an additional measure of protection against overheating, the belt compressor in this design was provided by the developers with a cooling fan. As a result, the user can count not only on extending the operational life of the working elements, but also on increasing the working cycle. To this we can add the almost record high receiver volume of 300 liters, which allows the unit to be used in long work cycles in large enterprises.
How to choose a compressor?
Technical characteristics should be the main factor in determining the model suitable for specific purposes. But, there are other nuances that should be borne in mind. For example, it makes sense to pay attention to the configuration. For the effective organization of the workflow, it is important to have at hand the entire set of accessories that ensure reliable pairing of the installation and the pneumatic tool. Also, in the matter of how to choose a compressor, the presence of modern security systems matters. It will be advantageous to have an overload protection system and automatic shutdown options. During operation, structural defects are often found in the form of a lack of convenient equipment for moving the unit. This nuance should also be considered when choosing a compressor, although it is not decisive in terms of the direct operational qualities of the equipment.