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A Competitive Price Guide To Air Compressors In Singapore 2023

Author:
15 May 2023
Getting the best deal on an air compressor may seem complicated and overwhelming for a first-time purchase, but knowing the specifications needed for the task you have in mind will simplify and narrow down your options. Understandably, it’s not just about the air compressor’s tank size for your desired air pressure, you must also determine the power source you have available. Moreover, take into account the setting as well as how long you need the unit running. Ask yourself if you intend the air compressor for home use or on an industrial scale and whether you’ll be operating it indoors or outdoors on an intermittent or continuous cycle. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve provided a comprehensive buying guide along with a competitive price list for air compressors in Singapore.

How to choose the right air compressor

1) Find out the air pressure you need to get the job done and make sure the air compressor is compatible with your pneumatic tool. To do that, you must familiarize yourself with the specifications indicated in these machines.
Term Definition
Standard Cubic Feet per Minute (SCFM) The average air consumption of an air/pneumatic tool or the rate at which air flows in and out of a compressor tank. Different tools require a specific SCFM to function optimally.
Pound per Square Inch (PSI) The measure of how dense air is inside the compressor tank. Make sure that the PSI is enough to support all the pneumatic tools you intend to use. The recommended PSI range is 60 to 130 depending on the tool being used.
Horsepower (HP) The power needed for the air compressor’s motor to operate. The size of the air compressor generally corresponds to the motor’s size.
2) Match the tank size with the airflow (SCFM) and air pressure (PSI) you need to achieve. Larger air tanks have a better chance of producing consistent SCFM and PSI for a longer period of time since they would be depleted less often in comparison to smaller air tanks. As a rule, the minimum tank size should be six (6) times your tool’s required SCFM. 3) Identify your power source so you can properly determine if an electric or gas air compressor would be most applicable for the space and job you have. 
Electric-powered Air Compressors Gas-powered Air Compressors
Power Source Electricity from a 120-volt outlet Fuel like gasoline or oil
Recommended Use Home or indoor use Heavy-duty and industrial tasks
Portability More portable due to smaller size and weight Heavier and harder to transport
Noise Quieter than gas-powered compressors Motor tends to be loud, but less disruptive in outdoor settings
Maintenance Simple to use and maintain May require more frequent maintenance
Air Quality Better air quality as they do not emit fumes May emit fumes that can be a health hazard in confined spaces with limited ventilation
4) Choose between an oil or oil-free air compressor.
Oil-lubricated air compressors Oil-free air compressors
Lubrication Use oil as a lubricant Pre-lubricated in a material like Teflon
Maintenance of Parts Need periodic oil changes to prevent irreversible damage to motor and parts Require less maintenance due to fewer parts
Application Better suited for industrial use with longer lifespan and more heavy-duty More compact and provide higher air purity, suitable for home use or clinical settings
Noise Usually more quiet as they are consistently lubricated Can be louder with a range of 60-80 dBA or above
Weight Heavier due to more parts and lubrication system Lighter and more portable due to fewer parts
Air Quality Higher risk of contamination Preferred by spray painters and in clinical settings due to higher air purity
5) Decide between a belt-drive or direct-drive air compressor.
Belt-drive air compressors Direct-drive air compressors
Pros
  • Generally more affordable
  • Shock absorption and anti-vibration features make them quieter
  • Recommended for workshops and industrial setups
  • Fewer air compressor parts to maintain
  • Versatile for home garage and outdoor use
  • Straightforward design great for hobbyists and semi-professionals
Cons
  • Belt needs regular lubrication
  • Transmission efficiency can be compromised by extreme temperatures
  • Velocity at which the belt operates can contribute to the wear and tear of shafts and bearings
  • Costs more upfront and to repair
  • Not suitable in confined spaces as it can be very loud
 

Price guide for air compressors in Singapore

The price of an air compressor will mainly depend on its type, brand, power source, size, specifications, and features such as its capacity to run quietly or absorb shock. Below are the most common types of air compressors for sale and their usual price range in Singapore.
Air Compressor Type Price (S$) Motor (HP) Air Pressure (PSI) Tank Size (L)
Belt-driven piston air compressors 800 – 1,900 2 – 3 115 / 8 BAR 30 – 100
Oil-free air compressors 170 – 4,000 1.5 – 5 115 – 130 9 – 230
Oil-lubricated air compressors 500 – 9,950 2.5 – 15 130 24 – 250
Direct-drive rotary screw air compressors 700 – 6,000 2 – 4 115 – 145 24 – 150
Electric screw air compressors 8,000 – 17,000 10 – 50 145 Not Included
 

Where to buy air compressors in Singapore

Lian Beng Machinery Co. has made a name for itself in Singapore as the top supplier of air compressors for both commercial and residential use. In addition to selling a broad selection of air compressors like MonsterAir and its serviceable parts, they also provide other machines used in construction, food processes, cleaning, and gardening. Air compressors are notably a hefty investment and so you’d want to make the right choice the first time you buy. Apart from matching the specifications with your current or usual projects, it is also advisable to purchase air compressors from reputable distributors like Lian Beng Machinery Co. This is so you can be guaranteed the necessary certifications, warranty, and maintenance even after the sale.