Centrifugal air compressors operate by transferring kinetic energy from a rotating impeller into potential energy in the diffuser. There are several stages within the centrifugal pressure design, as well as an intercooling stage between each major stage. Centrifugal air compressors are designed to flourish under high capacities and work best when used for applications over 200 total horsepower.

Centrifugal Air Compressors Deliver Class 0 Certified Oil-Free Air  

Centrifugal air compressors, as well as some rotary screw air compressors, can supply oil-free air, often referred to as Class 0 per ISO 8573-1. It is important to understand that the Class 0 designation is distinctly different from trace oil designation. Figure 2 presents the classifications of oil-free air. Employing a Class 0 certified centrifugal compressor provides numerous benefits to a manufacturing facility including minimized maintenance, reduced energy costs and an oil-free airstream (assuming the source inlet air is also hydrocarbon free).

The oil in the machine is kept out of the actual air path, since oil-free compressors do not use oil in their actual compression process. This also helps keep costs down by minimizing the number of filter change outs required. Oil-free centrifugal air compressors are designed for lower maintenance, and provide the highest energy efficiency. Read more details on the advantages of oil-free centrifugal air compressors here.