5 tips for choosing carbon dioxide compressor manufacturers
While the compression of carbon dioxide is (somewhat) comparable to that of regular air – and the compressors are similar as well – CO2 compression is (still) used much more rarely while entire industry sectors could not function without compressed air.
As a result, finding the right CO2 compressor supplier is also a bit more challenging. The most important thing to remember is to not try to compress carbon dioxide with an air compressor. While the two may look the same, CO2 compressors have to be much sturdier and its components have to be able to withstand the carbonic acid that is generated during the compression process. That is why a regular air compressor would break down very quickly.
Therefore, you should always make sure that your CO2 compressor supplier understands all compression technologies.
Obviously, it still makes sense that you begin your search for a capable partner with companies that have an excellent track record of producing compressed air equipment. However, if they only specialize in air compression, then you should keep looking because, when it comes to CO2 compression, it is important that you get a solution that meets your specific demand and not just a compressor off the shelf.
Finding the right CO2 compressor supplier
Now you know what not to do, so let’s turn to the features you should be looking out for.
1. Reliability of the CO2 compressor
Because the compression of carbon dioxide is more demanding on your equipment, reliability is especially important.
Make sure that the compressor you choose has the required stainless-steel components to protect it from the corrosive effect of the carbonic acid that is being generated.
In addition, many plants that need CO2 compressors are operating around the clock. Therefore, the use of dependable equipment is crucial to minimize costly downtimes.
2. Plug and play carbon dioxide compressor
CO2 compressors are becoming increasingly popular among companies that want to do their part for the environment, avoid fines and taxes, and meet increasingly stringent regulations. However, they are still used much less frequently than regular compressors. As a result, properly setting them up may pose challenges for staff unfamiliar with the equipment.
A good solution to this problem is to find a plug-and-play compressor that has already been tested by the supplier (you should always check to make sure that is the case).
That way, it is ready to go in no time after it arrives and does not hold up your operation.
3. Ease of use of the gas compressor
On a related note, you should look for a CO2 compressor that is easy to use. No matter how much experience you have with operating a regular air compressor, compressing carbon dioxide is different.
If you choose a CO2 compressor that is complicated to operate, you may quickly encounter challenges that you cannot easily overcome or you will find yourself having to hire/train staff specifically for this task. With a model that is easy to use, on the other hand, you can avoid these problems.
4. Oil-free CO 2 compressor
If you are operating in the food & beverage sector (or in any industry where the carbon dioxide you produce is in contact with a consumable end product), then it is essential that your CO2 compressor features oil-free technology. Otherwise, you risk contaminating your products, which could lead to expensive production shutdowns, recalls, consumer complaints, or even lawsuits.
By using an oil-free compressor, this is one headache you can easily prevent. Here is a helpful tip: Check out the manufacturer’s track record of making oil-free air compressors!
5. Global service and a global warranty for CO2 compressor
Working with a global partner has many benefits. If something does go wrong or if you need to maintain a machine your staff is less familiar with than conventional air compressors, then it helps to have experts at your fingertips – not just on the phone but in person.
As you are looking for your carbon dioxide compression partner, you should make sure that the one you choose has a worldwide presence, has sold CO2 compressors across the globe already, and has experienced service technicians in many international locations.
It should come as no surprise that Atlas Copco, as the world leader in compressed air and gas equipment and technology, checks all of these boxes. If you want to work with the most trusted brand in the industry to meet your carbon dioxide compression needs, then get in touch with us.