Ranking of the best compressors for filling cylinders in 2020

Compressors are mechanical devices used to increase pressure in a variety of liquids and gases. They are often used for filling industrial equipment with compressed air, abrasive and pneumatic tools, paint sprayers or oxygen cylinders.

In our review, we will provide recommendations on what to look for in order not to make a mistake when choosing, we will understand the functionality, average prices, determine the best manufacturers and popular models.

Compressor types

Product descriptions vary depending on the compression method used. Classic views include:

• The first design relies on the reciprocating motion of one or more pistons within the cylinders. They release the compressed gas through a valve into a pressure vessel. The tank and the machine are usually united by a common frame. The main purpose of reciprocating equipment is to transfer air as an energy source or to distill natural gas through pipelines. The criterion for choosing a product is determined by its power. Higher pressure is achieved by a two-stage block.
• Diaphragm (membrane) equipment - piston design improved by concentric motor. At the heart of the product is a flexible disk that compresses gas, constantly changing in volume. Such machines have low productivity relative to other types, but generate a clean mixture. They are used in laboratories, medical organizations.
• The rotor is the cornerstone of screw products. Their well-known feature is continuous operation. Such equipment is ideal for construction or road improvement. An important advantage of the screw over the piston: less vibration, which makes the equipment quieter. The pumped mixture is free from pulsations. The product is lubricated with oil or water.
• The “vane” version works with a series of blades installed in the rotor. They rotate in an eccentric cavity, reducing its volume and compressing the gas that has entered the space. Such devices are not used to supply clean air, but are capable of generating compressed, pulsation-free gas. They are more resistant to contaminants entering the system from the atmosphere, thanks to the use of bushings rather than bearings, quiet but less powerful than the screw versions. They are able to function in continuous production. They are used in the oil and gas, processing industries.
• The next design provides for stationary and orbital spirals. Gas enters along their outer edge and discharges closer to the center. T. to.the spirals do not touch, the parts do not need lubrication, they are "oil-free". The performance of the device is slightly lower than other designs, often used in budget models, home air conditioners.
• Rotary vane products deliver large volumes of low pressure gas, most commonly referred to as blowers.
• Centrifugal designs operate on high-speed wheels, similar to pumps. They generate large volumes, they can be used in commercial refrigerators with a capacity of 100 hp, in large processing plants up to 20,000 hp, where gas volumes can reach 200,000 m3. Expansion occurs in the casing volute where the flow rate slows down and the pressure increases. Centrifugal equipment has a lower compression ratio than reciprocating equipment, but processes a larger volume of gas. Some devices of this type use multiple stages with coolers that improve the compression ratio.
• The axle unit has the best performance (from 215 to 350,000 m3 per minute). Such devices are used in jet motors. Along with centrifugal devices, they increase the pressure, increasing the speed of the gas, and then slow it down, passing it through the curved fixed blades.

Buying the right product yourself is not an easy task. There are many types for different purposes and tasks, from portable to large-sized, for charging breathing apparatus cylinders or for distilling explosive gases.

How to choose a compressor machine

Piston or screw systems are in high demand. The first option is usually cheaper than the second, easier to maintain and operate. However, screw products are quieter, more protected from oil entering the system.

An important difference between the above designs is the different cycle times. If the piston 25% of operation is at rest, and 75% on the move, then the screw can function 100% of the time. They are not designed for frequent starting and stopping.

For example, a car body service station that uses a spray gun on a regular basis may find advantages in using radial screw equipment, while a repair center that rarely uses compressed air can do without a piston system.

Large-sized rotary screw devices are transported to the place of operation on trailers, powered by a motor. They are designed for continuous use in construction and road improvement.

Spiral models are irreplaceable in refrigerators. The mixture coming from the device is clean, corresponds to class "0", therefore it is suitable for pharmacology, food industry, electronics.

If the use of equipment involves the compression of hazardous gases (propane, butane), you should take a closer look at membrane, sliding-blade, kinetic structures.

Additional factors to consider when choosing:

• oil product or does not require lubrication;
• sizes;
• air quality;
• control.

Oil plays an important role as it removes heat generated during compression. In many designs, it provides sealing of system elements. In the case of piston units, it lubricates the crank bearings, cylinder sidewalls. For vane products, oil helps seal the smallest space between the tips of the vanes and the housing bore. Scroll machines do not use lubrication, so their performance is limited. Centrifugal systems do not introduce oil into the compression stream. Which mechanism is better to buy depends on the needs of production.

The compressed air is usually quite hot with condensation, so it collects in a reservoir. Receiving tanks have manual or automatic valves that allow the accumulated water to be drained. Heat can be removed by passing the mixture through an additional cooler. Refrigerant dryers are added to the system. Filtration is installed to remove lubricant from the inlet pipe.

The piston unit is controlled by a start / stop button and feeds the storage tank.When the lower level is reached, the mechanism turns on and works until it is completely full. This control minimizes the number of motor starts during periods of increased load.

Screw devices, in addition to the "start / stop" system, provide modulation of the intake, sliding valves, automatic double control, variable speed drive. When choosing control schemes, the idea is to find the best balance with the desired functions between meeting the needs and the cost of idle versus the expense of depreciating equipment. When choosing a technique, in addition to the above indicators, it is important to consider 3 main parameters:

1. The volumetric capacity determines how much mixture the machine generates per unit of time (l / m). When filling the cylinders, it must be remembered that the amount of compressed gas supplied to the outlet of the mechanism will always be less than the working volume of the machine, due to losses during the purging of the system.
2. The primary parameter is pressure (measured in bars).
3. Power consumption required to operate the unit.

Buyers also have to decide whether to drive, belt or direct, gas or diesel, etc. Efficiency curves are often published so that you can evaluate the performance of the system when pumping different volumes, depending on the speed of the shaft and the size of the impeller.

Scope of use

Compressors are used in various industries and are used at home. Everyone, having studied our article, will be able to assemble the necessary system with their own hands. The 12V DC portable electric air apparatus, which is often carried in the trunk of a car, is a typical example of the simpler version of the compressor. With its help, auto tires are inflated. Here are examples of industries where equipment is used:

• trucks, cars;
• medicine, dentistry;
• laboratories;
• food, beverage processing;
• oil and gas industry;
• for snorkeling.

Below we give a rating of models whose popularity has been tested by time.

Where can I buy

Inexpensive new items can be purchased at the nearest building supermarket. Managers will provide advice on which company the device is best for you, will guide you on the price, will tell you how to replace a broken part. You can look at the device in the online store, order it online.

Rating of quality compressors for filling cylinders in 2020

Our review is based on real reviews. It takes into account the opinion of buyers, attached photos of equipment.

For diving

FROSP KVD 200/300

On the 3rd place is an effective mechanism that generates clean breathing air of excellent quality (for water sports), technical gases:

• nitrogen;
• air.

Passing through the intake filter, the mixture is free from contamination. It is contained in high pressure cylinders.

It is important to place the machine in a well ventilated area free from dust, risk of corrosion or fire. If the temperature is over 45 ° C, an air conditioner must be installed. There should be enough light (natural or artificial) in the working area to see all the elements of the machine, information signs, stickers.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Pumped medium	Nitrogen, air
Worker, bar	300
Productivity at 1 bar, l / min	200
Filling time 10l / 0-200 bar, min	10
Engine	Electric 3-phase, 50/60 Hz
A type	Piston
Rotation frequency, rpm	1300
Engine power, kW	4
Noise level, dB	81
Weight, kg	160
Compliance standard	DIN EN 12021

• robust construction.

• not detected.

Paramina Mistral M6-ET

Silver for Mistral M6-ET. It has a high-pressure, air-cooled 3-stage piston design. The product is used at home, does not make noise, there is no vibration, has mobility, and is indispensable for divers, divers, firefighters.

The gas is compressed at a low piston speed, which guarantees the operation of the equipment for many years.The design features of the Mistral M6-ET allow it to be used on dive boats, support ships. If necessary, it is possible to install a filter that forms an oxygen mixture. Another area of ​​application of the machine is paintball. The quality of the resulting mixture complies with the EN 12021 regulation.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Performance	103 l / min
Compression	330 atm. (4785 psi)
Drive unit	Electric
The size	0.72 x 0.38 x 0.47 meters
Weight	54 kg
Power, drive	3 phases. 380 V, 2.2 kW
Rotation frequency, rpm	1200
Number of compression stages	3
Unlimited continuous working time	+

• increased capacity filter;
• high pressure connection with DIN or YOKE mounting standards;
• pressure gauge 400 bar;
• manual condensate discharge;
• automatic stop;
• spare filling hose;

• not detected.

Coltri Sub MCH6 SH

1st place is taken by Coltri Sub MCH6 SH - an excellent option for amateur diving. The car is powered by a gasoline engine. Lightweight, mobile, budget-friendly, robust design is surprisingly efficient for its size and incredibly easy to maintain.

Such a device will increase the geography of diving. You can put it in the luggage compartment of your car and go explore the underwater world.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Performance	100 l / min (6.0 m³ / hour)
Refueling time	balloon 10L (0-200 Bar), 20 minutes
Working compression	225-300-330 Bar
Drive unit	4-stroke gasoline engine, Honda GX200
Power	4.8 kW (6.5 HP)
Weight	37 kg
Noise level	80.5 dB
Number of steps	4
Oil volume	300 ml
Oil used	Coltri Oil CE 750
Fuel consumption	1.7 l / h at 3600 rpm
Engine oil volume	600 ml
Recommended oil	10W30, 10W40
Frame	powder coated steel
Oil / moisture separator	after the last step
Filtration	Activated carbon and molecular
Suction filter	2 micron paper
Cooling	Air, forced
Length	780 mm
Height	350 mm
Width	320 mm

• mobility;
• reliable construction;
• price quality.

• not detected.

For filling with air

Patriot remeza

4th place for a product used for painting, inflating tires, blowing filters, various operations using pneumatic tools. The unit is equipped with a 200-liter reservoir, which reduces the number of repetitions of working cycles. The design provides strong support to ensure the Patriot Remeza is stable during operation. The kit includes, in addition to the compressor, packaging, step-by-step operating instructions.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Gross weight	146 kg
Max compression	10 bar
Power	3000 watts
Country of origin	Belarus
Three phases	+
Wheels	+
Engine	Electric
Homeland of the brand Belarus
Cylinders / Steps	3/1.
Receiver	Horizontal
Net weight	145 kg
Max. performance	580 l / min
Receiver volume	200 l
View	Piston oil
Voltage	380 V
Drive unit	Belt
Dimensions, mm	1460x640x1150
Mobility	Mobile
Connections	1/4 "(euro)
Receiver	+

• convenient control;
• high efficiency;
• sustainability;
• simple operation;
• powerful motor;
• excellent cooling;
• available visual control during operation.

• not detected.

Denzel

Bronze for a product from Denzel. It will come to the court of all who intend to provide pneumatic equipment with compressed air. It can be used at home or in small production.

Denzel PC 2 / 100-370 has a 2.2 kWt electric motor, which is capable of pumping 370 l / min, creating a pressure of 8 bar. The design of the motor provides for a V-shaped shaft, piston mechanism. The device has a one-liter receiver. It can be used to inflate tires, pneumatic equipment: spray guns, screwdrivers, etc.

The machine has a pressure gauge that displays the parameters in the receiver. The device can automatically turn on, replenishing the volume of compressed air in the cylinder.Denzel operates on a single-phase network, the voltage of which should be 220 V. Ergonomic handle, wheels add convenience during transportation.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Brand name	Denzel
Packaging:
Length, m.	1.05.
Width, m.	0.85
Height, m.	0.39
Volume, m3	0.35
Amount in a package:	1
Package weight, kg	56
View	Piston
Engine	Electric
Grease	Oil
Power	2.2kw
Compression	10 bar
Input performance	400 l / min
Drive unit	Coaxial (direct)
Voltage	220 V
Receiver	horizontal
Receiver volume	100 l
Number of cylinders	2
Number of compression stages	2
Connections	Rapid (euro)
Functions:
Safety valve	+
overheat protection	+
Pressure gauge	+
Design:
Transportation	Two wheels
Carrying handle	+
Weight	102 kg
Guarantee period	3 g

• individual channels at the pistons;
• sturdy construction;
• protective cover for the motor;
• efficiency;
• price quality.

• blows out the gaskets.

DGM AC-254

Second place is DGM AC-254, designed to provide compressed air for pneumatic tools and spray guns. The equipment is successfully used in construction and repair. The piston machine has two heads, a direct drive, a 50 l receiver with a limit of 8 bar. Productivity is 440 l / m.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
View	Piston
Engine	Electric
Grease	Oil
Power	2.2kw
Pressure	8 bar
Output performance	440 l / min
Drive unit	Coaxial (direct)
Voltage	220 V
Receiver	Horizontal
Receiver volume	50 l
Number of cylinders	2
Functions:
Pressure regulation	+
Oil level indicator	+
Pressure gauge	+
Transportation	two wheels
Carrying handle	+
Weight	40 Kg

• wheels for moving the apparatus;
• slight vibration;
• performance;
• V-block with 2 cylinders;
• mobility;
• two pressure gauges;
• two euro connectors for fastening tools;
• 1 year warranty;
• fasteners included;
• pressure regulator;
• start valve;
• a peephole for checking the oil level.

• not detected.

Metabo BasicAir

Metabo Basic wins. This machine has balanced parameters. It is ideal for home use or small workshops. It can be used to supply the necessary equipment with compressed air. The device has wheels for easy transportation, rubber, easy to grip, handle.

Receiver 50 l, capacity 200 l / m, pressure 8 bar, pressure gauge, which controls the readings, makes the system optimal for comfortable work. It is important to note that the Metabo Basic has a low noise level (97 dB). The motor is protected against overheating, which prevents malfunctions when the unit is under load.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
View	Piston
Engine	Electric
Grease	Oil
Power	1.5kw
Compression	8 bar
Input performance	240 l / min
Output performance	120 l / min
Drive unit	Coaxial (direct)
Voltage	220 V
Receiver	Horizontal
Receiver volume	24 l
Number of cylinders	1
Number of compression stages	1
Number of posts	5
Functions:
Pressure regulation	+
Safety valve	+
Pressure gauge	+
Transportation	Two wheels
Carrying handle	+
Noise level	87 dBA
Dimensions	31x60x55.5 cm
Weight	28 kg

• high-quality assembly;
• ergonomics;
• convenient start, drain valve.

• low power.

For refueling with propane

FROSP KVD-GS-15

Bronze for FROSP KVD-GS-15. This compressor is capable of compressing gas by filling cylinders with it. The kit includes: pump, engine, cooling cooler, separator, filter oil, safety and drain valves, pressure regulator. To get started, just press the start key. The design includes a timer showing how long the FROSP KVD-GS-15 has been functioning.

It is important to say a few words about the rules for using the product. The equipment is installed outdoors, because this is required by the fire safety regulations of the Russian Federation. The device should be placed on a reliable, level surface, protected from precipitation, ventilation is required.Before starting, compare the characteristics of the current strength, voltage in the network and equipment, they must match.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Pumped medium	Methane, biogas, natural, hydrocarbon gas
Productivity, m3 / hour	15
Productivity, l / min	250
Worker, bar	200 - 250
View	Piston
Engine	Electric 3-phase, 50/60 Hz
power, kWt	7.5
Recommended inlet gas pressure, bar	up to 0.03
Mains voltage, V	380
Dimensions, mm	1500x1200x1650
Weight, kg	500
Recommended diameter of the gas pipe for connection	3/4″

• safety;
• simple operation;
• reliability;
• low noise, vibration;
• low operating costs;
• automatic shutdown.

• not detected

Paramina Typhoon Classic 18E

The stationary Paramina Typhoon Classic is designed for professional use. It can work continuously for a long time. It ranks second on our list. Thoughtful cleaning successfully filters moisture and oil, increasing the product life, and reducing repair costs. The Typhoon Classic line has an automatic condensate stop and drain system:

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Model	Classic 18E
Productivity, l / min	320
Drive unit:
View	Electro
Frequent rotation, rpm	1360
power, kWt	7.5
Filter system	BA x4
Number of chargers	2
Weight, kg	175
Dimensions, cm (LWH)	107*54*70

• the start key has thermal protection;
• the starter has a battery;
• automatic stop / start, emergency stop;
• sensitive filter;
• low noise level;
• operational safety;
• removes oil, condensate after the 2nd stage of compression;
• efficient stainless steel heat exchangers;
• safety valves;
• oversized cooler (50 cm);
• two charging mechanisms with hoses (1200 mm), DIN mounts;
• automatic adjustment of the drive belt;
• Pressure Sensors;
• low oil level alarm;
• manometers.

• high price.

Corken 91

Gold is taken by a stationary apparatus from the Corken company. It is indispensable for pumping liquids, liquefied gases (propane-butane or ammonia), sampling the vapor phase for subsequent compression and further use as intended. The product provides acceptable NPSH values. Corken 91 is ideal for filling pressure tanks: cisterns, underground storage. They have a top mount for injection, so the system will come in handy.

The company has been operating on the market for over half a century, making reliable devices. The manufactured compressors comply with the strictest safety and quality regulations and are in demand among Germans, Japanese and Americans.

Corken focuses on the production of vertical or horizontal "grease-free" aggregates with one or two stage compression systems. The branch pipes are fastened with a thread or a flange (ANSI, DIN). The machine is easy to maintain, the valves are replaced without disassembling the pipes, and the piston without removing the block head. The advantage of Corken equipment is its versatility.

Technical indicators:

Parameters	Specifications
Cylinder diameter	114.3 mm
Piston stroke	101.6 mm
Performance:
at least at 400 rpm	49.6 m³ / hour;
maximum at 825 rpm	102.3 m³ / hour.
Maximum slave. pressure	24.1 bar;
Max. drive power	26.1 kW;
Max. piston load	2494.8 kg;
Max. outlet temperature	177 ° C;
Weight	283.5 kg;
Propane capacity	82.0 m³ / hour;
Flange version	F691

• reliable design;
• multifunctionality;
• fasteners ANSI, DIN;

• high price.

We hope that our review has provided all the necessary information: what compressors are there, why they are needed, how much they cost. The choice is yours. Using the data obtained, you can confidently navigate the market.