Proportioning the Compressed Air Dryer
Trying to figure out which air dryer capacity is best for you? Here are some factors to consider. Read More…
How to put a price on productivity?
Price is an important consideration when choosing a tool for metalworking applications, but it alone should not be the deciding factor.
Other things also contribute to the total cost of ownership, performance, and, ultimately, the overall productivity..png)
Ergonomics
One of the key things to look out for is the ergonomics of the tool, specifically the following aspects:
1/ Power-to-weight ratio
The power-to-weight ratio affects how long an operator can handle the tool over a given period, the speed of material removal, and the operatorโs well-being. If you are hesitant between two tools, the power-to-weight ratio is essential to choose the right one for your needs. Chicago Pneumaticโs CP3650 angle grinder, for example, weighs only 1.8 kilos but delivers a power of 1,800W to maximize productivity.
2/Vibrations
Limiting the vibrations that the worker is exposed to when handling the tool is crucial for well-being and productivity. Excessive vibration can lead to hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), which, in the worst case, can result in total loss of sensation in hands, permanently disabling the operator. Selecting tools with features that reduce vibration and stabilize the tool, such as autobalancers, help make it safer to use for extended periods, increasing the material removal rate by up to 15 percent.
The toolโs vibration level and the length of exposure indicate whether an operator will be at risk from HAVS. Vibration and noise can both be minimized by choosing tools with low vibration levels, evaluating the work pattern, and wearing appropriate PPE, such as ear defenders.
Pol Dunoyer, Global Business Development Manager at Chicago Pneumatic
3/Weight
With some tools weighing over five kilos, weight is an important consideration when comparing tools. Can the operator handle the tool for hours at a time? The weigh value can be found in the manufacturerโs catalog, but the operator should always test the tool to ensure its suitability. On paper, weight can be a deceptive value: an ergonomic design can make a heavier tool easy to handle, minimizing the physical strain on the operator.
4/Design
Additional toolโs features and accessories can contribute to the performance and maneuverability of the tool. For example, tools with an ergonomic handle design can reduce vibration, while those with a curved head can deliver better weld bead visibility to optimize precision.
Safety
The right tool can also help reduce the risk of accidents, safeguarding productivity. Many tools from Chicago Pneumatic, for example, feature a two-position safety trigger, which can be adapted to the operatorโs grip above or below the housing to reduce the risk of their hands slipping. Governed air grinders, especially when featuring an overspeed shut-off, are also a good way of managing both safety and productivity. They help maintain maximal speed to optimize material removal rates while protecting the operator from the damage caused by abrasive bursts.
Maintenance
As the maintenance cycles and requirements vary between tools, comparison can be challenging. The most important feature to look for is the maintenance interval, which shows how many hours you can use the tool before maintenance is recommended. Knowing and maintaining the maintenance requirements is crucial for ensuring the best performance and preserving the specifications, such as power and speed, that contribute to productivity.
Browse our range on air compressor tools
Grinders & Sanders
For maximum material removal with minimum effort and high-quality finish, Chicago Pneumatic delivers robust, durable and lightweight easy-to-handle tools.
Surface applications from heavy material removal to fine finishing. Tools designed to bring better comfort and increase your productivity. The range provides random orbital sanders, rotary sanders, pistol sander & polishers, and belt sanders. Secure payment, Afterpay, nationwide delivery. Buy now, pay layer.
Percussive Tools & Drills
Their combination of power, compactness and light weight gets the job done. Better operator comfort comes with a unique vibration dampening body.
The range provides industrial chipping hammers, weld flux chippers, needle scalers, long reach scalers and rust & weld scalers.
With drilling capacity from 6mm (1/4โ) to 50mm (2โ), various speeds and power, our drills are designed to handle both your tough and smooth operations. The range provides straight, angle and pistol drills. Secure payment, Afterpay, nationwide delivery. Buy now, pay layer.
Specialty & Cutting
The range provides saws, high speed cutters, nibblers, shears, engraving pens, riveters, caulking guns, air files, and blow guns. Secure payment, Afterpay, nationwide delivery. Buy now, pay layer.
Staplers & Brad Nailers
The perfect solution for all your nailing needs, from framing to decking and more. Our range of professional-grade brad nailers offer precision and durability to ensure you get the best results possible. As a professional tradesperson, our brad nailers are the ideal choice for any nailing task.
Explore our range of staple guns. Our brand of PIT TOOLS by Ash Air heavy-duty staplers we supply are trusted by tradespeople all over NZ.
Our Brad nailers and Staplers are suitable for a range of applications: Bedding and furniture, Cabinets and joinery, Fencing, Framing, Prefab housing, Wall lining, floor covering, cabinet making, trellis and boxes, interior decorative trim, cabinetry, cabinet backing, crafts and hobbies.
Wrenches
The use of the latest technologies and materials, such as composite housing or steel housing for the toughest materials, makes CP Industrial impacts the best in each class. Our versatile line features different clutches such as rocking dog, 2 jaw, pin, single dog or twin dog clutches.
We offer a range of powerful pneumatic ratchet wrenches from ยผโ to ยฝโ square drive for every task.
Due to their small size and light weight, pneumatic ratchets are an excellent choice for fastening in tight or cumbersome applications. Secure payment, Afterpay, nationwide delivery. Buy now, pay layer.
Do you have an idea for our #expertcorner?ย Let
us know!
Who we are and how Ash Air can help your business!
Ash Air has been around in New Zealand since 1979, and weโve grown into a nationwide company with international support and a
reputation for quality and reliability.We look after all things compressed air for your business!
- Reciprocating, Screw, air compressors
- Vacuum pumps
- Nitrogen
- An extensive line of air treatment components
Ash Air's range of Chicago Pneumatic, Alup, Pneumatech, and Quincy compressors are used extensively around the world in industries
ranging from oil and gas to food, automotive and farming, and we bring you these world class compressors here in the land of the long white
cloud.Our technicians are compressed air equipment experts and are dedicated to addressing customer needs. Supported by a 13 locations
nationwide, Ash Air offers one of the widest selections of compressed air equipment and parts available today in New Zealand.
Reliability and Efficiency
With Ash Air compressors, you can count on reliability and high performance for even the most demanding applications. We focus our
efforts on the following:
- Increasing uptime
- Reducing unexpected repairs
- Reducing energy consumption
- Improving the cleanliness of compressed air
Talk to the team today:
Read more from our #expertcorner
_320x250a.jpeg)
Maintenance budget: 8 factors to consider
Just like any other equipment, a compressed air installation also requires the necessary maintenance work during its entire
lifespan. Even though maintenance costs are only about 5 to 10% of a machine's annual operating costs, failure to budget for
maintenance can have potentially disastrous consequences.
Read More…
The air dyer is one of the most ignored cooler in the system. A dirty condenser will cause water in the lines, or worse it will cause
complete dryer failure.
Read More…
Why Replace CO2 with Nitrogen in your Brewery
Using nitrogen is not about fully replacing CO2, but it can reduce their consumption of CO2 by close to 70%. Using nitrogen is about
sustainability. Creating your own nitrogen is easy and will reduce the use of a greenhouse gas, which is better for the environment. It will
also save you money as early as month one adding that savings to your bottom line.
Read More…
What do I need to know about ICONS?
ICONS: Intelligent Connectivity System: The insight into your compressed air system, wherever you are. Learn More about ICONS in this article here!
Read More…
A question that is occasionally asked by our customers to Ash Air is 'what is the cost of compressed air?'ย This article looks at the
product costs involved with compressed air, as well as minimising the energy cost of compressors and cost allocation. When looking at these
factors, we need to realise what causes dropped efficiency of your compressor, leading to increased costs of compressed air.
Read More…
How to avoid falling objects when working at heights
You may have great fall protection measures in place to keep employees safe when working at height, but what about their co-workers below?
Dropped tools and other falling objects are a major hazard โ and one that isnโt always fully addressed.ย
Read More…
Providing a safe working environment for operators is essential, especially when using pneumatic tools and compressed air. If there is a
failure in the air network and the hose is not adequately clamped, the resulting whiplash could be devastating. Failure to follow best
practice can result in injuries, associated production downtime and decreased productivity.
Read More…
Why do I need a dryer for my compressor?
A common questions asked is why do I need an air dryer for my compressor? Typically, air compressors produce water, and although the
water can be drained, there can still be aerosol and vapour droplets that are present. This is because water cannoet be compressed. Water
can damage your compressor by corroding the valves, pipes and machinery controls, which will cost you time and money to resolve. In
the long run, the cost of a new compressor is a small price to pay compared to the loss of production that could potentially arise due
to water damage in your compressor.
Read More…
What are some preventable causes of air compressor failure?
Air compressors can fail for an assortment of different reasons: Normal wear and tear, lifespan and age of the unit, poor maintenance, power surge, install issues are just a few the come to mind. Check out this blog to find out our top 7 tips to ensure your compressor is looked
after!
Read More…
_320x226a.png)
Simple Ways to Reduce Your Compressed Air Costs?
Air compressors use considerable volumes of energy during a typical work cycle. When you add up all the expenses of operating a facility,
any savings can help you boost your bottom line.
Read More…
What Should You Know When Buying a Compressor for the First Time?
If you have never bought a rotary screw air compressor before; do the following. Add up the air consumption of all the equipment at your
shop. That will be the amount of air your desired compressor should provide.
Read More…
How to Know When Your Industrial Air Compressor Needs Servicing
Knowing the telltale signs of wear and tear, understanding your productโs specifications and usability guidelines, and knowing when itโs
prudent to call in repairs are skills that could save you a lot of time, effort, and money in the long term.
Read More…
One-stage vs Multi-stage Compressor
Find out the difference between a one-stage compressor and a multi-stage compressor.
Read More…
How do I winterise my air compressor?
That cold, rainy, and in some places icey New Zealand winter is upon us, and with the following air compressor tips, your air system will be
prepared with the preferred temperatures, despite the weather outside. Regardless of whether or not it actually snows or freezes up where
you live, most winterisation service recommendations are also basic, solid maintenance procedures that will help extend the life and
operational efficiencies of air compressors regardless of whether you live in Queenstown or Northland.
Read More…
_320x322a.png)
How to find the better desiccant dryer
The right desiccant dryer with quality desiccant will improve dryer performance and lifetime and will reduce energy and service costs.
Read More…
How to Find the Best Air Compressor for Painting Cars
If you're wondering what an air compressor actually is, you've come to the right place. Simply, air compressors convert power in to air that
is pressurised which is then used to power air tools such as spray guns. Air compressors are used in a wide range of applications, so
naturally if you want one that will be designed for spray painting your vehicle, you want a compressor specifically made for spray guns!
This way your compressor will be able to provide the right amount of power to perform the job.
Read More…
How to Optimise Compressor Operating Costs
Compressed air plays a fundamental role in industrial activities. Depending on the type of application, the energy cost of producing
compressed air can be very high. Below are some tips to save on you compressor bill.
Read More…
Upgrading Your Compressor: When is the Right Time?
Air Compressors are essential tools in a variety of industrial settings. No matter what industry you are in having a reliable air compressor
can be a crucial part of getting the job done efficiently. However, like an investment, air compressors require upkeep and maintenance, and
eventually will need to be upgraded. But how do you know when itโs time to upgrade your air compressor? Here are some things you need to
consider.
Read More…
Choosing the right assist gas in laser cutting: nitrogen or oxygen
When it comes to laser cutting and other industrial processes, the choice of assist gas is crucial in achieving optimal results. Nitrogen
and oxygen are commonly utilized as assist gases, each with its own unique properties and applications. Understanding the characteristics of
both gases, will help you to make an informed decision to ensure precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in your operations.
Read More…
Controlling your nitrogen purity made easy
On-site nitrogen generators have many benefits over bottled gas. One is that they allow you to select your nitrogen purity. Here is how.
Read More…
What are Mobile Compressors used for?
Mobile air compressors are portable, towable compressors particularly useful for applications that suit the construction and roading
industry! You'll often see a mobile compressor being used for sandblasting, irrigation blow-outs, and for quarrying tools such as pneumatic
block cutters and rock drills.ย ย
Read More…
Compressed air so portable it even reaches the moon.
Did you know that Chicago Pneumatic helped man land on the moon? Notice in this photo of the Apollo 11 landing what appear to be
"soccer balls" on top of the capsule. They were inflated through a compressor specially developed by Chicago Pneumatic for
NASA.
Read More…
Where Should I Install my Air Dryer?
Your company purchased an air dryer for your compressor, now where should you install it? One of the most common things we see in the
industry are air dryers being stored on top of the compressors. Seems like a wasted space not being used on top of the compressor, right?
Wrong.
Read More…
When using air compressors, there are many variables that are integral to the quality and effectiveness of your compressed air. When dryer
air is necessary, being able to constantly and accurately monitor dew points can be a critical factor to your operation.
Read More…
Why Does A Brewery Need Compressed Air?
Compressed air plays an integral role in breweries both large and small around the world. From start to finish, all details in the brewing
process are managed in fine detail and having the right air compressor is no exception.
Read More…
How is Nitrogen Used in the Coffee Industry?
We Kiwi's love our Coffee! Coffee, like all other food & beverage products, must go through a preservation process to keep the
beans fresh during storage and packaging before they reach the consumer. Coffee that is not properly stored after it is roasted will lose a
large amount of carbon dioxide, which lessens its' flavor and speeds up the staling process. One of the most common ways to preserve the
freshness of coffee is the use of nitrogen gas. Learn more here:
Read More…
Do you have an idea for our #expertcorner?ย Let
us know!
Who we are and how Ash Air can help your business!
Ash Air has been around in New Zealand since 1979, and weโve grown into a nationwide company with international support and a reputation for quality and reliability.We look after all things compressed air for your business!
- Reciprocating, Screw, air compressors
- Vacuum pumps
- Nitrogen
- An extensive line of air treatment components
Ash Air's range of Chicago Pneumatic, Alup, Pneumatech, and Quincy compressors are used extensively around the world in industries ranging from oil and gas to food, automotive and farming, and we bring you these world class compressors here in the land of the long white cloud.Our technicians are compressed air equipment experts and are dedicated to addressing customer needs. Supported by a 13 locations nationwide, Ash Air offers one of the widest selections of compressed air equipment and parts available today in New Zealand.
Reliability and Efficiency
With Ash Air compressors, you can count on reliability and high performance for even the most demanding applications. We focus our efforts on the following:
- Increasing uptime
- Reducing unexpected repairs
- Reducing energy consumption
- Improving the cleanliness of compressed air
Talk to the team today:
Read more from our #expertcorner
.jpeg)
Maintenance budget: 8 factors to consider
Just like any other equipment, a compressed air installation also requires the necessary maintenance work during its entire lifespan. Even though maintenance costs are only about 5 to 10% of a machine's annual operating costs, failure to budget for maintenance can have potentially disastrous consequences. Read More…
The air dyer is one of the most ignored cooler in the system. A dirty condenser will cause water in the lines, or worse it will cause complete dryer failure. Read More…
Why Replace CO2 with Nitrogen in your Brewery
Using nitrogen is not about fully replacing CO2, but it can reduce their consumption of CO2 by close to 70%. Using nitrogen is about sustainability. Creating your own nitrogen is easy and will reduce the use of a greenhouse gas, which is better for the environment. It will also save you money as early as month one adding that savings to your bottom line. Read More…
What do I need to know about ICONS?
ICONS: Intelligent Connectivity System: The insight into your compressed air system, wherever you are. Learn More about ICONS in this article here! Read More…
A question that is occasionally asked by our customers to Ash Air is 'what is the cost of compressed air?'ย This article looks at the product costs involved with compressed air, as well as minimising the energy cost of compressors and cost allocation. When looking at these factors, we need to realise what causes dropped efficiency of your compressor, leading to increased costs of compressed air. Read More…
How to avoid falling objects when working at heights
You may have great fall protection measures in place to keep employees safe when working at height, but what about their co-workers below? Dropped tools and other falling objects are a major hazard โ and one that isnโt always fully addressed.ย Read More…
Providing a safe working environment for operators is essential, especially when using pneumatic tools and compressed air. If there is a failure in the air network and the hose is not adequately clamped, the resulting whiplash could be devastating. Failure to follow best practice can result in injuries, associated production downtime and decreased productivity. Read More…
Why do I need a dryer for my compressor?
A common questions asked is why do I need an air dryer for my compressor? Typically, air compressors produce water, and although the
water can be drained, there can still be aerosol and vapour droplets that are present. This is because water cannoet be compressed. Water
can damage your compressor by corroding the valves, pipes and machinery controls, which will cost you time and money to resolve. In
the long run, the cost of a new compressor is a small price to pay compared to the loss of production that could potentially arise due
to water damage in your compressor.
Read More…
What are some preventable causes of air compressor failure?
Air compressors can fail for an assortment of different reasons: Normal wear and tear, lifespan and age of the unit, poor maintenance, power surge, install issues are just a few the come to mind. Check out this blog to find out our top 7 tips to ensure your compressor is looked after! Read More…
.png)
Simple Ways to Reduce Your Compressed Air Costs?
Air compressors use considerable volumes of energy during a typical work cycle. When you add up all the expenses of operating a facility, any savings can help you boost your bottom line. Read More…
What Should You Know When Buying a Compressor for the First Time?
If you have never bought a rotary screw air compressor before; do the following. Add up the air consumption of all the equipment at your shop. That will be the amount of air your desired compressor should provide. Read More…
How to Know When Your Industrial Air Compressor Needs Servicing
Knowing the telltale signs of wear and tear, understanding your productโs specifications and usability guidelines, and knowing when itโs prudent to call in repairs are skills that could save you a lot of time, effort, and money in the long term. Read More…
One-stage vs Multi-stage Compressor
Find out the difference between a one-stage compressor and a multi-stage compressor. Read More…
How do I winterise my air compressor?
That cold, rainy, and in some places icey New Zealand winter is upon us, and with the following air compressor tips, your air system will be prepared with the preferred temperatures, despite the weather outside. Regardless of whether or not it actually snows or freezes up where you live, most winterisation service recommendations are also basic, solid maintenance procedures that will help extend the life and operational efficiencies of air compressors regardless of whether you live in Queenstown or Northland. Read More…
.png)
How to find the better desiccant dryer
The right desiccant dryer with quality desiccant will improve dryer performance and lifetime and will reduce energy and service costs. Read More…
How to Find the Best Air Compressor for Painting Cars
If you're wondering what an air compressor actually is, you've come to the right place. Simply, air compressors convert power in to air that is pressurised which is then used to power air tools such as spray guns. Air compressors are used in a wide range of applications, so naturally if you want one that will be designed for spray painting your vehicle, you want a compressor specifically made for spray guns! This way your compressor will be able to provide the right amount of power to perform the job. Read More…
How to Optimise Compressor Operating Costs
Compressed air plays a fundamental role in industrial activities. Depending on the type of application, the energy cost of producing compressed air can be very high. Below are some tips to save on you compressor bill. Read More…
Upgrading Your Compressor: When is the Right Time?
Air Compressors are essential tools in a variety of industrial settings. No matter what industry you are in having a reliable air compressor can be a crucial part of getting the job done efficiently. However, like an investment, air compressors require upkeep and maintenance, and eventually will need to be upgraded. But how do you know when itโs time to upgrade your air compressor? Here are some things you need to consider. Read More…
Choosing the right assist gas in laser cutting: nitrogen or oxygen
When it comes to laser cutting and other industrial processes, the choice of assist gas is crucial in achieving optimal results. Nitrogen and oxygen are commonly utilized as assist gases, each with its own unique properties and applications. Understanding the characteristics of both gases, will help you to make an informed decision to ensure precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in your operations. Read More…
Controlling your nitrogen purity made easy
On-site nitrogen generators have many benefits over bottled gas. One is that they allow you to select your nitrogen purity. Here is how. Read More…
What are Mobile Compressors used for?
Mobile air compressors are portable, towable compressors particularly useful for applications that suit the construction and roading industry! You'll often see a mobile compressor being used for sandblasting, irrigation blow-outs, and for quarrying tools such as pneumatic block cutters and rock drills.ย ย Read More…
Compressed air so portable it even reaches the moon.
Did you know that Chicago Pneumatic helped man land on the moon? Notice in this photo of the Apollo 11 landing what appear to be "soccer balls" on top of the capsule. They were inflated through a compressor specially developed by Chicago Pneumatic for NASA. Read More…
Where Should I Install my Air Dryer?
Your company purchased an air dryer for your compressor, now where should you install it? One of the most common things we see in the industry are air dryers being stored on top of the compressors. Seems like a wasted space not being used on top of the compressor, right? Wrong. Read More…
When using air compressors, there are many variables that are integral to the quality and effectiveness of your compressed air. When dryer air is necessary, being able to constantly and accurately monitor dew points can be a critical factor to your operation. Read More…
Why Does A Brewery Need Compressed Air?
Compressed air plays an integral role in breweries both large and small around the world. From start to finish, all details in the brewing process are managed in fine detail and having the right air compressor is no exception. Read More…
How is Nitrogen Used in the Coffee Industry?
We Kiwi's love our Coffee! Coffee, like all other food & beverage products, must go through a preservation process to keep the beans fresh during storage and packaging before they reach the consumer. Coffee that is not properly stored after it is roasted will lose a large amount of carbon dioxide, which lessens its' flavor and speeds up the staling process. One of the most common ways to preserve the freshness of coffee is the use of nitrogen gas. Learn more here: Read More…
