AIRBOX and AIRBOX CENTER
Experience the purity and power of Kaeser's oil-free compact reciprocating compressor systems: AIRBOX and
Piston compressors
A reciprocating compressor (also known as a piston compressor) is the proven choice for workshops, garages, and light industrial applications. It is robust, easy to maintain, and suitable for varying air demand.
KCTD and KCT Built-In Generator Set
Take your business operations to the next level with the Kaeser KCTD Series
KCCD / KCD Generator Set
Optimize your production with the Kaeser oil-lubricated reciprocating compressor unit from the Series
Eurocomp Generator Set
Expand your existing systems with Kaeser EUROCOMP workshop compressor units, designed to
Eurocomp Standing
Maximize your workshop capacity with Kaeser EUROCOMP Workshop Compressors, featuring an upright design
Eurocomp horizontal
Experience the perfect combination of performance and durability with the Kaeser Classic
CLASSIC 320–460 / 90 W
Experience the perfect combination of performance and durability with the Kaeser Classic
Premium Car 150–660
Bring powerful compressed air solutions directly to your job site with the Kaeser Premium Car
Piston Compressors
What is a piston compressor?
A piston compressor operates on the piston-cylinder principle: a piston moves up and down inside a cylinder, thereby compressing air into a receiver (tank). The compressed air is then delivered to your tools or equipment via a network of pipes or a hose.
Piston compressors are available in single-stage (up to approximately 10 bar) or two-stage (up to 15–40 bar) configurations. In two-stage compressors, the air is compressed in two stages with an intermediate cooling step, resulting in higher pressure and greater efficiency.
Depending on the application, you can choose between an oil-lubricated model (powerful, robust, lower purchase price) or an oil-free model (clean air with no risk of oil contamination; this is mandatory in the food industry, dentistry, and pharmaceuticals).
Who is a piston compressor suitable for?
Piston compressors are ideally suited for businesses and professionals with fluctuating air demand. They do not need to run continuously and are easy to start and stop. Typical applications:
- Auto repair shops and body shops: for painting, inflating tires, and pneumatic tools
- Woodworking Shops: for routers, screw guns, and blowers
- Metalworking companies and welders specializing in plasma and laser cutting and blasting
- Construction sites. For pneumatic demolition tools, nail guns
- Dentists and the medical sector. Oil-free version required
- Smaller manufacturing companies: as a supplement or backup to a screw compressor
QUESTIONS ABOUT PISTON COMPRESSORS
What is a piston compressor?
A reciprocating compressor (also known as a piston compressor) is a type of compressed air compressor in which a piston moves up and down inside a cylinder to compress air. The compressed air is stored in a receiver and delivered through a piping system. Piston compressors are robust, easy to maintain, and ideal for fluctuating air demands in workshops and light industry.
What is the difference between a piston compressor and a screw compressor?
A reciprocating compressor operates on the piston-cylinder principle and is ideal for intermittent use at lower capacities (up to approximately 15 kW). A screw compressor operates using two rotating screws and is more efficient under continuous, heavy loads. For small to medium-sized applications with fluctuating air demand, a reciprocating compressor is the more cost-effective choice.
What is the difference between an oil-lubricated and an oil-free piston compressor?
An oil-lubricated reciprocating compressor uses oil to lubricate the cylinder surfaces. This results in a robust, powerful machine with lower upfront costs, but the compressed air it produces may contain traces of oil. An oil-free piston compressor produces clean compressed air without the risk of oil contamination—which is mandatory in the food industry, dentistry, pharmaceuticals, and paint shops.
How do I maintain a piston compressor?
Regular maintenance includes: oil changes (for oil-lubricated models, every 500–1,000 operating hours), cleaning or replacing the air filter, daily draining of condensate from the receiver, checking belts and valves, and an annual inspection by a certified technician. SK Compressor Service offers maintenance contracts for reciprocating compressors throughout the Netherlands.
Can I also rent a piston compressor?
Yes. SK Compressor Service rents out piston compressors for temporary use, as a stopgap during maintenance, or as a test unit. Delivery is often possible within 24 hours throughout the Netherlands. Please contact us for availability and rates.
How much does a piston compressor cost?
The price of a reciprocating compressor depends on its power rating, type (oil-free or oil-lubricated), number of cylinders, and any optional features. SK Compressor Service always operates on a quote basis—so you never pay more than necessary and get exactly the compressor that suits your needs. Contact us for a no-obligation quote.