How To Choose The Best Rolair Air Compressor

Choosing the Right Rolair Air Compressor does not have to be a challenge. Air compressors power pneumatic tools and sprayers, inflate tires and clean dust out of crevices and cracks, making them a critical part of any jobsite or workshop. Learn how compressor features affect performance, and find the Rolair® Air Compressor to meet your needs.

Factors You Should Consider When Buying A Rolair Air Compressor

All About Airflow

A compressor’s primary function is to provide a reliable flow of high-pressure air to pneumatic tools or other accessories. The delivered airflow rating, in cubic feet per minute (CFM) at a given pressure in pounds per square inch (PSI), tells you how much air a compressor delivers. The airflow rating of the Rolair air compressor you choose should exceed the air requirements of your highest-demand tools by about 50 percent. If you plan on running multiple devices off a single compressor, add up the air requirements of all tools in simultaneous use to find a unit with sufficient air capacity.

Compressed Air Storage Capacity

All Rolair compressors have one or more metal tanks that store compressed air. These tanks are typically proportional in size to the unit’s airflow rating. The compressor motor runs long enough to fill the tank and then either shuts itself off or runs at idle to cool down and reduce noise. A large tank ensures smooth air delivery and offers a longer cool down interval.

Single-Stage and Two-Stage Compressors

Most compressors use either a single-stage or two-stage design. Single-stage models have one piston that pushes air into the storage tank. Two-stage Rolair compressors have two pistons in a sequential arrangement. The first piston forces compressed air into the second, which compresses the air further and pushes it into the air tank. Single-stage designs are small and light, making them ideal as portable compressors. Two-stage models deliver large air volumes at high pressure. They’re an excellent choice for high-demand applications such as running multiple pneumatic tools simultaneously.

Transportable Air Provisioning

jc10When choosing a compressor, how you get the unit to the job site is an important consideration. Stationary electric compressors excel in shop settings, while heavy-duty, gas-powered models with truck mounts provide plenty of air capacity for remote locations. Compact compressors like the Rolair JC10 offer convenient carrying handles that let workers take their air source almost anywhere, and larger, wheeled models combine portability with the airflow and tank capacity necessary to take on big jobs. Many portable models also feature roll cages that protect engine components and air fittings from damage if they fall over or are in the path of falling debris.

Gas Versus Electric Rolair Compressors

Both gas and electric compressors come in a broad range of sizes, but there are differences between these products. You can use electric compressors indoors or outside, and they’re often quieter than gas-powered models. Many run on 120V household current, but some heavy-duty models offer a variety of high-voltage power connections. Rolair gas compressors, on the other hand, are a solid choice for remote job sites and eliminate the need for extension cords that may create trip hazards. However, they are not for use indoors without proper ventilation for exhaust gasses.

All gas and electric compressor motors have a horsepower rating. While this value doesn’t directly affect the unit’s airflow, a powerful motor speeds pressure recovery and reduces the duration of tank-filling cycles.

Rolair Compressor Safety Features

Safety is an important concern when using power tools, and Rolair products have features that ensure safe and reliable operation. A built-in sensor detects overheating and automatically shuts down the motor to prevent damage, and a safety-relief valve vents excess pressure from the air tank to avert catastrophic failure. Models with an output regulator give you control over the air pressure reaching your tools, and separate tank and regulator gauges provide a clear indication of tank and output air pressure.

Pneumatic tools play an essential role in commercial shops, on construction sites and in DIY workshops, and gas and electric air compressors provide the airflow you need to power these devices in almost any setting. Choose the Rolair compressor that meets your jobsite needs, and enjoy the safe, quiet and reliable operation these products offer.

3 Comments

  • Breakable Technology

    January 10, 2017 at 3:09 pm

    Hey,
    Thanks so much for sharing this post. I did not realize that there were so many things to take into consideration when purchasing a Rolair air compressor. I will have to give the gas vs electric point some consideration!
    Best,
    Dennis

    Reply
  • David

    August 17, 2023 at 9:20 pm

    This article is a fantastic guide for anyone looking to choose the best Rolair air compressor. The comprehensive breakdown of factors like airflow, compressed air storage, single-stage vs. two-stage compressors, and transportability is extremely helpful. The comparison between gas and electric compressors is particularly insightful, highlighting their respective advantages and best use cases. The emphasis on safety features and their importance adds a responsible touch to the guide. Overall, a highly informative article that simplifies the process of selecting the perfect Rolair air compressor. Well done!

    Reply

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