Portable Compressor Components

All portable compressors are different, though most have several parts in common, depending on the design. Key features of a Quincy single-stage portable compressor include the:

• Motor: An electric motor powers portable compressors. As with automotive engines, compressors are rated according to the amount of horsepower (HP) their motor produces. However, a more powerful motor does not necessarily mean the compressor will deliver more pressure or be able to power more tools.
• Valve/piston: A compressor uses its motor to drive a valve and piston assembly, which draws air into a chamber and compresses it. We measure how effective a compressor does this in both pressure (PSIG) and capacity (CFM). Most portable compressors feature a single-stage design, meaning they have only one valve/piston assembly. Multi-stage configurations, on the other hand, contain a series of chambers and pistons, and they’re more common on stationary models. If you need higher pressures/greater capacities, a two-stage configuration is better for you.
• Storage tank: Most portable compressors feature a storage tank for holding compressed air until it is ready to use. A larger storage tank means you can go longer without running the compressor motor; however, it also increases the footprint of the unit, taking up more space and making it less portable. We measure storage tank capacity in gallons or liters.

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Portable Air Compressor Care and Maintenance

Taking care of the various parts of a portable air compressor requires periodic inspections and maintenance. Doing so regularly ensures compliance with your unit’s warranty and helps reduce the risk of unexpected downtime due to equipment failure. Each compressor has different maintenance requirements, though common service items often include keeping the intake vents clean, checking hoses and tightening fasteners, changing the unit’s oil and air filters when necessary and cleaning the fuel tank.

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