Can You Hear Me Now? The Push for Quieter Air Compressors

As space, or lack thereof, becomes a major issue for a number of manufacturing operations in the United States, the machinery filling them is being redesigned to be more compact and generate less noise. Air compressors are no exception to this trend as suppliers look to provide consumers with quieter alternatives. 

The "old school" piston air compressors that produce 85 decibels are now being pushed out for quieter rotary screw compressor options that operate closer to 65 decibels. Let's take a step back before we go into this further — how loud is that, exactly?

A look at the decibel scale

If you've heard a piston air compressor, you know exactly what we're talking about here. If you haven't, or if it's been awhile, these points provided by researchers at Yale University can serve as a general reference point (but may vary slightly depending on the situation). 

• Whisper - 25 dBA
• Household refrigerator - 55 dBA
• Business office - 60 dBA
• Normal conversation - 65 dBA
• Telephone dial tone - 80 dBA
• City traffic - 85 dBA

Researchers note that anything above this scale may result in hearing loss

• Subway train from 200 feet away - 95 dBA
• Power mower - 107 dBA

Above 120 dBA, pain may begin for most people

• Jet engine as heard from 100 feet - 140 dBA

What's the alternative for compressors?

It's possible we're hitting the point a bit too hard on the nose here, so let's move on to alternative options being actively chosen to replace older, louder compressor models. 

Smaller rotary screw air compressors are being designed by a number of fabricators around the world, giving consumers to make an informed decision that fits their application closely should they choose to make a switch. The most important factor here is the space left around a rotary machine — our team recommends between 24 and 36 inches to ensure maintenance can be performed without any issues. Don't forget to check local electrical codes to ensure you're providing ample room around the unit's electrical cabinet. 

When in doubt, get creative

If you have a tight space that might otherwise limit your ability to install a rotary screw air compressor, our team recommends troubleshooting the addition of a refrigerated air dryer on the wall, hanging the air tank on a ceiling space or in another room (be sure to contact a contracter if you plan to hang from the ceiling). 

Have any lingering questions? Contact our team of experienced air compressor experts by calling 866-788-6572 or sending an email to info@compressorworld.com