Single or Multiple compressors? What should you evaluate for your plant

Compressors use various capacity control systems to monitor changes in pressure e adapt the air supply to the variable demand. Their purpose is to provide quality air in the right quantity with adequate pressure, and the plant can be supplied by single or multiple compressor installation.

Single compressor installations are best suited to smaller systems or systems which operate almost exclusively at full output. However, that doesn't mean you should have just one. If the air supply is critical to operation, having a backup compressor is accountable for the case of unexpected maintenance. It's also important to anticipate future use since the availability of compressed air always leads to new applications.

Multiple compressors offer some advantages like:

• Flexibility (better demand adjustment, maintenance,...)
• Backup capability
• The option of having a centralized or decentralized operation
• Energy efficiency
• Pressure control

At last, the decision should be based on a thorough evaluation of the financial resources available, the expected energy consumption, the sensitivity of operations to interruptions, and the long-term benefits that a more efficient system can provide. But the actual battle will always be cost vs return.