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Exploring air compressor options for construction: finding the perfect match

By Ramesh Kumar. G, Vice President, Portables, Elgi Equipments Limited,

Added 10 January 2024

The article highlights the benefits of electric and diesel-powered screw air compressors, whilst emphasising on their versatility and suitability for challenging construction tasks.

The construction industry is a behemoth in the global economy, with approximately $10 trillion spent on construction-related goods and services each year. In recent years, there has been substantial expansion in the portable air compressor industry, particularly driven by increased usage in the construction sector. According to Inkwood Research, between 2023 and 2032, the global portable air compressor market is projected to experience robust growth at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.37 per cent. This growth is closely linked to the expanding global construction industry, which is anticipated to create a heightened need for portable air compressors, presenting an attractive opportunity for businesses to concentrate their efforts. In India, this industry is projected to be buoyant due to heightened capital investments and ambitious urban infrastructure development initiatives.

Electric and diesel-powered screw air compressors have become indispensable tools in the construction industry, providing a reliable source of compressed air for a wide range of applications. Electric screw air compressors are the preferred option for construction sites that have a reliable power source. They offer various benefits, such as energy efficiency, reduced operational expenses, and a diminished environmental footprint. Additionally, electric compressors produce less noise, making them ideal for noise-sensitive construction sites. Their compact and portable design enables easy transportation and manoeuvrability at construction sites. Simultaneously, their ability to power various pneumatic and hydraulic equipment makes them essential for construction tasks that require compressed air.

At construction locations where a consistent electrical power source might be lacking, or mobility is essential, diesel-driven screw air compressors come into play. These compressors are typically mounted on trailers or skids, facilitating effortless transportation between construction sites. Designed to endure harsh, dusty settings and rigorous construction tasks, diesel air compressors perform exceptionally well in challenging construction environments. They provide enhanced versatility by functioning in remote or off-grid areas having no electrical power supply. Diesel compressors often provide higher airflow and pressure capabilities, making them suitable for challenging construction tasks requiring substantial compressed air output.

The construction industry relies heavily on electric and diesel-powered screw air compressors for various applications.

Here are some notable examples:

Sandblasting and surface preparation: Electric and diesel compressors power sandblasting equipment for surface preparation, delivering high-pressure air that removes abrasive materials like sand or grit onto surfaces, effectively removing unwanted coatings, rust, or corrosion.

Concrete and shotcrete spraying: Compressed air is of utmost importance in concrete and shotcrete spraying applications. Electric and diesel-powered screw air compressors offer the necessary air pressure to propel concrete or shotcrete mixtures through spray nozzles onto surfaces. This makes them ideal for constructing walls, tunnels, and swimming pools.

 

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