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…
Why Do Machine Shops Need Air Compressors?
Cutting,
shaping, drilling, and finishing, compressed air is critical for any machine shop. Shops rely heavily on the compressed air system to
assist in a variety of operation processes. Commonly the parts produced are used in the machine industry, car industry or even the
aircraft industry. A traditional workday in a machine shop requires the use of air compressors to generate an intermittent or continuous
source of pressurized air.
What machines commonly require compressed air in the shop?
Metal Lathes: Originally designed for metal, but now available for all types of materials used in machine shops. Powered by compressed air, this machine allows the material to be rotated and cut with precision.
Milling Machines: Usually used to machine flat surfaces, but can also produce irregular surfaces. They can also be used to drill, bore, cut gears, and produce slots, all of which are powered by air.
Grinding Machines: Grinding of metal (and other materials) to eliminate imperfections after cutting is essential.
Paint Booth: Depending how big your shop is, a paint booth is required to paint the parts being manufactured. The spray gun is operated by compressed air.
Air Guns:During machining operations, material is usually removed from the work piece to accomplish the intended shape. This results in chips, dust, oil, dirt, and other contaminants becoming entrapped on the cutting tools and cutting surface. These unwanted materials can block the manufacturing process by reducing machining accuracy and can eventually cause damage to the tooling. Frequently, using a blast of dry compressed air will keep areas of concern free from contaminants.
CNC Machines: (AKA Computer numerical control) This machine processes a piece of material to meet specifications by following a coded programmed instruction and without a manual operator,all ran by compressed air.
Water Recovery Filtration: Recycling water is a huge cost saver for any shop. The filtration process requires air to operate valves and re-circulation process.
What is a Machine Shop?
A
company where machining, a form of manufacturing, is performed. Machinists use machine tools and cutting tools to make parts, usually of
metal, plastic, steel, glass or even wood. Shops can vary in size and scale depending on the industry.
Pain Points for Machine Shops (that we can help with!)
Budget: The key to avoiding a regrettable purchase is to know what the different types can offer you. Starting with the end goal in mind is how you will find the best air compressor for the money.
Condensation: During CNC machining, it is crucial that the compressed air used to clean exposed surfaces is sufficiently dry. Air that contains undesirable amounts of moisture can condense on colder surfaces, ultimately resulting in corrosion in the metal work piece and/or the tooling.
CFM Requirements: It's important to know if the compressor your purchase will drive the tool or equipment you;ll need for your project.
NOISE!: Metal hitting or sliding against metal can be loud! Typically, the more moving parts an air compressor has, the louder it will be. This is true in the motor as well.
Electrical Complicity: Understanding your power supply at your business will guide you on the air compressor choices. What is the voltage available?
Why do I need an Air Dryer for my Compressor?
Air dryers remove the moisture following the compressed air process.
Reciprocating Compressors Vs. Rotary Screw Compressor
Which one is right for your shop?
Safe and Convenient : Rotary screw air compressors are incredibly convenient, given that they deliver air continuously for the required purposes. They are also safe, and cases of accidents with the machines are almost unheard of.
Functions at extreme weather conditions: Rotary air compressors can work at high or low temperatures. The machines can also work in areas where other forms of energy are prohibited due to safety or temperature levels. To an extent.
They are designed to run tools that generate more power that typical equipment : And since their air flow rates are extremely high, rotary air compressors can power such equipment effectively.
They are easier to maintain: Many of the modern air compressors in the market have fewer parts that require maintenance. In fact, some rotary screw machines have up to 70% less parts, which in turn lowers maintenance costs dramatically.
They run quietly despite their massive air flow: Rotary screw air compressors are generally quiet performers, with many of them having noise dampening technologies. That and the fact that they are not huge in size makes them convenient to be stored anywhere and still provide a safe working environment.
They are good energy conservation : Rotary screw machines are generally energy efficient, and they generate less heat than normal air compressors.
They consume less oil than other oil flooded air compressors:In addition, they have minimum oil carryovers.
They are designed to last :Rotary screw air compressors are designed to serve you for many years, all along while having little or no capacity reduction.
Air Compressor Noise: Causes, Risks, & Solutions
Learn all about air compressors and the noise that goes along with them
Total Turn-Key Solution
At Ash Air, we take the guess work out of setting up shop. Literally. From the air compressor and dryer to the piping, we have you covered. Our team will lead everything from installation, to start-up and calibration. We will work side-by-side to ensure they have the training and resources they need to move forward with your new solution.
Compressor Sizing: An inefficient air compressor results in higher energy costs, improper tool operation and even shortens the machines life. Allow our pros to size you correctly based on your tools and the shops demand.
Equipment Installation: Trained professionals to install new equipment with flexible installation scheduling to help reduce productivity loss and downtime.
Complete Air System: Your compressed air pipe can greatly affect the performance of your compressor. A pipe system should last decades if installed correctly. Leave it to us to help.
Maintenance Scheduling:Regular maintenance can help keep your operation running smoothly, as well as extend the working life of your equipment. Having scheduled maintenance of your compressor equipment is crucial. CP technicians will perform regular maintenance procedures, as well as multi-point equipment inspections to evaluate system efficiency.
First Time Buying an Air Compressor?
Using an air compressor in your shop is far more economical and efficient than running electric tools. Air compressors can be located inside or outside of your shop. If outdoors, a separate shed should be built around it to protect it from the elements (rain, weather, dirt, etc). If located indoors, it should be placed in a location as far from the work as possible and will provide adequate ventilation. An indoor shed may also be constructed if this is not possible.
Add up all the CFM required for all the air tools you will be using at one time. For example, if you have three air polishers at 18 CFM per polisher, that's a total of 54 CFM required. Now add an additional 20%. In our example, that would be another 11 to 12 CFM. This means you will need at minimum a 70-CFM air compressor, and that does not include room for growth.
There are two types of compressors: Piston compressors and a Rotary screw compressors. I would recommend going with the screw compressor. A screw compressor produces a constant air supply and is much quieter than a Piston compressor.
Single Phase
We stock a comprehensive range of Chicago Pneumatic Professional Piston Air Compressors.
Single phase piston compressors perfect for your professional workshop, small business, serious DIYers. 1.5HP - 3HP, we have a compressor that meets your needs!
Chat to one of the experienced staff members to find out more which oil lubricated or oil free piston compressor is right for your business. Ideal for professional workshops, and serious DIYers.
Three Phase
What happens when a passion for technology is fused with hands-on industrial experience? Our Chicago Pneumatic and ALUP Piston Air Compressors are the match for your heavy duty workshop.
We stock cast iron, low speed, low wear and tear, european manufactured piston air compressors.
The team at Ash Air pride themselves on providing quality piston compressor products and outstanding customer service to all our clients.
Petrol
Reliable and powerful mobile piston compressors for production of compressed air everywhere where there is no electricity connection. Self-powered piston compressors offer complete freedom and flexibility under all circumstances, such as construction, agriculture, for facade cleaning etc. The team at Ash Air pride themselves on providing quality piston compressor products and outstanding customer service to all our clients. Chat to one of the experienced staff members to find out more which piston compressor is right for your business.
Below 50HP - Screw Air Compressors
Chicago Pneumatic rotary screw air compressors are built on the very robust platform and feature state of the art controller and high-efficiency screw element.
The Ash Air range of oil lubricated screw air compressors are excellent all-in-one solutions for small and medium workshops, with energy cost savings of 30% - 35%. The most popular air compressors 10HP, 15HP, and 20HP are available as a full feature with integrated air dryer and receiver. More than 100 rotary air compressors available for sale from stock in Auckland and Christchurch.
Direct driven air compressors with variable speed drives offer high energy efficiency, a smooth start and prolonged life of the component parts, reduced system pressure and energy consumption.
Sub Categories
Above 50HP - Screw Air Compressors
For power above 45 kW we offer ALUP air compressors, designed and manufactured in Europe. We installed Alup rotary screw air compressors at dozens of sites in New Zealand for food processing, at timber plants and other industrial sites.
These high-efficiency rotary screw air compressors feature variable speed drives, remote monitoring and heat recovery options. ALUP air compressor is covered by an optional 5 years warranty.
The three most popular air compressors 45 kW, 55kW and 75 kW are available for sale from stock in Auckland. Chat to our experts, we will help you to answer questions about what can you use the compressor for, what compressor is the best and learn all about air compressor efficiency.
Sub Categories
Oil Free - Screw Air Compressors
The team at AshAir specialises in oil-free or oil-less scroll compressors with zero risk of oil contamination, and are ideal for critical applications including medical, pharmaceutical, dental, R&D, food & beverage, wine and brewery. Our 100% oil-less scroll compressors are designed with fewer moving parts, which means less wear and tear, less noise, higher efficiency and reliability, and a longer machine life .
These scroll compressors use cutting-edge scroll technology where the spirals never contact each other, and no lubrication is needed, making them completely oil-free. Our SPR 20 Multi oil-less scroll compressor operates with variable air delivery, controlled by an intelligent controller for air delivery supplied according to the fluctuation of air demand. This means a higher energy efficiency and more stable system pressure.
Sub Categories
Tips When Picking an Air Compressor:
As we wouldn't know which granite piece matches a blue backslash, picking the right compressor for your granite shop can leave anyone unsure on such a big decision.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when comparing compressors:
1. Maintenance: Select an air compressor that is easy to maintain and access. Chicago Pneumatic compressors take the guessing out of what to do. With detailed manuals to know what is required at each hour interval of your machine.
2. Replacement parts: Don't pick a machine that you have to track filters and parts down for. With a dedicated network of distibutors, it's simple to order parts and keep your machine always working at it's optimal performance.
3. Noise: Yes, noise is something to consider when selecting your compressor. No one needs a nagging employee complaining about the noise of a machine. Ask about the decibel chart and where the compressor ranks.
4. Installation: You need to be thinking about where this compressor is going to go. A quiet screw compressor (QRS) should go inside and can be right beside your employees with minimal noise. Looking to put your compressor outside? Keep in mind, not all compressors are meant for outside. Weather is a huge component to harming your compressor, so make sure you ask if they have a "weather kit".
5. Certified Tank: What's that even mean you ask? OSHA requires the tank of your compressor to be certified with ASME. The ASME certification states the pressure vesssel has been manufactured to specific standards. It should also on the tag have a NB (National Board) number stamped into it.
6. Drains: Compressed air produces moisture in your machine. Drains are essential to draining that moisture out of your machine. Make sure you ask where the drains are located, are they automatic and how often you should be manually draining.
Ash Air has been around in New Zealand since 1979, and we’ve 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!
Ash Air's range of Chicago Pneumatic, ALUP, Pneumatech, and Atlas Copco products 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 with
nationwide coverage, Ash Air offers one of the widest selections of compressed air, vacuum pump, and industrial gas equipment and parts
available today in New Zealand.
With Ash Air, you can count on reliability and high performance for even the most demanding applications. We focus our efforts
on the following:
Talk to the team today:
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?' 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 – and one that isn’t always fully addressed.
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.
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…
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 product’s specifications and usability guidelines, and knowing when it’s
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…
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 it’s 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.
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…
How Can I Save on Energy Costs by Using a Screw Compressor?
Air compressors are helpful for an enormous range of applications such as air filling, packaging, tools, HVAC control, and more! One
possible drawback is the amount of electricity they use; air compressors can be a huge drain on energy if used inefficiency...
Read More…
Which material of pipes should I use for my Air Compressor System?
Air compressors create the energy used by pneumatic tools and processes throughout your compressed air system. The component that connects
everything together is the piping. It is very important to choose the right compressed air pipe to avoid pressure
loss, rust and other problems.
Read More…
Why Do I Need a Back-up Air Compressor?
We get it, buying an air compressor is a big financial decision. And now we are suggesting that you need two air compressors, not just one.
Ask yourself one question- Can your business still run if your air compressor goes down?
Read More…
Keep It Down – Air Compressor Noise Reduction
It’s no secret – air compressors are excellent sources of energy. Not only do they power essential manufacturing elements and applications, but the heat generated as a result of the compressed air processes can be used as a byproduct that offsets other energy costs. However,
there’s another form of energy that is also a consequence of the air compression process – sound.
Read More…
How can I maximise the performance of my compressor?
Maintenance is key to continuing the performance of your air compressor. Continue to read about maximising the performance and longevity of
your compressor and some air compressor maintenance tips!
Read More…
When to use E-Stop on an air Compressor?
The emergency stop, "e-stop", is for true emergency situations only. When hitting the e-stop, all power is halted from the machine
and the unload process isn't achieved. The emergency stop button is intended to help with possibly hazardous situations that are developing.
Common conditions of having to use the e-stop is the misuse of the equipment in ways that weren’t intended, predictable failures not
addressed or failing to consider all the foreseeable uses of the compressor.
Working Safely with Air Compressors
We've put together a list of tips for working safely with air compressors in your environment! We recommend that you always read owners
manual before running your compressor. The number one cause for repairs and personal injury is improper use. You've got to remember to use
eye protection and hearing protection when operating your air compressor and try to avoid using air compressors in a wet area.
Read More…
An efficient industrial oxygen generator for cost savings
It's generally cost-effective to invest in an on-site industrial oxygen generator. If using bottled or liquid oxygen, you can save 50-90%
per unit of O2.
Read More…
Air Compressor Installation Tips
Air Compressor Installation Tips
Installing Your Reliable Air Compressor
Piston Compressors: Application Areas
Piston compressors – also known as reciprocal compressors – are designed to work within certain limitations. Find out more about them here.
Read More…
What is the difference between Wet vs. Dry Vacuum Pumps?
Vacuum pumps generally fall into two main categories: wet and dry. Here's a breakdown of how they
differ:
Read More…
Blog Focus - Pneumatech: Expert air treatment and industrial gas since 1966
What started as a family business has since grown into the world’s trusted expert in air treatment and industrial gas solutions. It’s a
success story we’re proud of, a true testament to the drive and entrepreneurial spirit of our entire team.
Read More…
Do you have an idea for our #expertcorner? Let
us know!
Who we are and how Ash Air can help your business!
Reliability and Efficiency
Read more from our #expertcorner
.jpeg)
Read More…
.png)
.png)
Read More…
So, you've just bought an efficient and reliable ALUP air compressor? Welcome to the world of compressed air.
As your partners in compressed air, we will continue to assist you along your journey. We have provided air
compressor installation
tips to ensure you get the most out of your air compressor.
Read More…
