A screw-type air compressor is a popular category of air compressor. These screw types are the simplest and cheapest screw-type available on the market, as well as being one of the most efficient screw compressors available. The screw compressor has many variants; we take a look at a single-stage screw compressor.

A single-stage (inline) screw air compressor is a single-stage screw type that provides an adjustable pressure in its range of operation by moving the rotating helix working in compression in or out of the gas flow path to change speed. Thus, providing required system pressure variation with varying demand requirements.

They are mainly used for applications like screw air compressors in tire inflation, screw air compressors for nail guns, and screw air compressors for spray painting screw compressors in paintball markers.

They are simple in design and construction, with a standard working pressure range from 2 – 18 bar.

The screw compressor has two chambers (front and rear). The screw-type screw compressor operates as follows:

1. As the screw rotates, it will push some air into the front chamber.
2. Air is pushed into the first chamber, which compresses; this process continues due to screw rotation, also known as compression or boosting of gases.
3. Check valve allows the flow of compressed air out of the first stage while preventing back-flow of intake gas from being compressed again by screw action, in turn creating high pressure in the front chamber.
4. When required pressure is reached, then check valves open and compressed air flows into the second stage, whether it’s the same single phase screw compressor or multistage screw compressor (multiple screw compressor connected in series).
5. In the second stage, screw action continues to compress air, but it doesn’t touch the screw intake directly as now intake is connected with grounded gas chamber and screw rotation is prevented by equal pressure of both screw chambers, also known as a backstop or cushioning feature.
6. Check valves allow the flow of compressed air out of the second stage prevents the back-flow of intake gases from being re-compressed through screw action, thus preventing the screw compressor from double compression, which would lead to overheating and failure of screw compressor.
7. The high pressure is delivered at a low noise level and starts doing work such as powering pneumatic tools, sanders, spray guns, etc… Each unit provides its pressure control.

Low cost:

Single-stage screw air compressors are available at low prices in the market as compared to other variants of screw compressors.

Easy Maintenance:

These screw air compressors are easy to maintain and don’t require skilled technicians for regular maintenance work.

Low Noise Level:

These screw air compressors generate low noise levels, making them ideal for use in residential areas.

High Efficiency: 

Single-stage screw air compressors offer high-efficiency levels, making them a popular choice for industrial applications.

Compact Size:

These screw air compressors are compact, making them easy to transport and install in confined spaces.

Versatile:

Single-stage screw air compressors can be used for a variety of applications, making them a versatile choice for businesses and home users.

Pressure Control:

These screw air compressors come with an in-built pressure control system, which allows the user to adjust the pressure according to their requirements.

Maintenance is easy and doesn’t require the expertise of a technician with a single-stage screw air compressor. A trained technician should inspect this equipment periodically. Some of the important steps include cleaning the oil filter, checking the lubrication points, cooling vents, etc.

The most common problem with these screw air compressors is leaking oil which might cause damage to internal parts due to excessive wear and tear. This can be avoided by regularly cleaning the entire part thoroughly so that all foreign materials are removed from it. A good quality lubricant should also be used for added protection against wear-and-tear of engine components.

Pneumatic tools that operate single-stage screw air compressors are sanders, spray guns, power tools, and many others.

Some other conditions which might indicate a problem with your single-stage screw air compressor include:

1. A higher-than-normal level of noise.
2. Leaks in the air system.
3. The pressure cannot be reached at the desired level.
4. Overheating of the compressor motor.
5. Excessive vibration of the compressor.
6. Unusual smells or smoke from the compressor.
7. Corrosion or damage to the compressor casing.
8. Difficulty in starting the compressor motor.
9. Improper performance of the compressor.
10. Expensive repairs are needed for the compressor.

To avoid these problems, it is important to regularly inspect your single-stage screw air compressor and take corrective action wherever necessary. Always use a qualified technician for this purpose to ensure that the health and safety of your workers are not compromised in any way.

Single-stage screw air compressors are known for their high-efficiency levels. This is because the motor is not overloaded and runs at a constant speed, which results in low energy consumption. In addition, the use of a quality lubricant helps to reduce friction and heat buildup in the engine, thus further improving the efficiency levels of the compressor.

Lubricating oil in rolling bearings, in the automobile industry, air conditioner, or refrigeration machinery for this equipment must have a constant supply of compressed air. Screw compressors will provide these needs by providing single-stage screw compression.

The following are applications of single-stage compressors where completely enough result when using this type of compressor:

• Injection molding machines in the plastics industry
• Metalworking industries use die casting machines
• Extruders in the rubber and plastics industry
• Blow molding machines in the plastics industry
• Bag making machines and heat sealing machines in the packaging industry

Factors to remember:

• Select the compressor that is most suitable for the specific application
• Always use a compressor that has been designed for the task at hand
• Make sure that the compressor is properly sized and matched for the load
• Use an appropriate lubricant to extend the life of the compressor

Single-stage screw air compressors are a popular choice for industrial applications. They come with a host of advantages such as easy maintenance, low noise levels, high efficiency, and compact size. However, it is important to regularly inspect your single-stage screw air compressor and take corrective action wherever necessary to ensure that the health and safety of your workers are not compromised in any way.