Tech Tip: While horsepower is an important component of a compressor’s power, more isn’t always better

It’s a general misconception that automotive shops need more horsepower for more compressed air output. However, the airflow requirement is the primary measure of a shop’s compressed air needs.

Compressor equipment is more efficient and powerful than ever before, so less horsepower can produce more overall power if the compressor is the correct size for the application.  

To understand horsepower requirements, shops should focus on understanding their airflow requirements. For example, the Ingersoll Rand Next Generation R-Series RS 11-22kW compressors range from 15-30 horsepower and produce 20 percent more airflow compared to previous Ingersoll Rand compressors of this capacity. 

Information provided by Ingersoll Rand