Scroll vs screw air compressors: choosing the right option for your needs

When it comes to air compressors, selecting the right equipment is vital for ensuring top performance and efficiency in your operations. Opting for oil-free compressors will guarantee clean, contaminant-free airflow across various industries and applications.

Enter two common oil-free contenders: scroll compressors and screw compressors, each with its own advantages and factors to consider. Understanding the differences is essential for making an informed decision that aligns with your compressed air requirements.

What are scroll compressors?

Scroll compressors work by using two spiral-shaped scrolls that interlock and compress air as they move, resulting in smooth and efficient air compression. They are known for being super quiet, with scroll compressors within Hitachi Global Air Power’s catalogue offering noise levels as low as 48 dBA. To put that into perspective, the noise levels in a library measure around 40 dBA.

Hitachi Global Air Power’s premium SRL Scroll compressor series offers advanced scroll compressor technology in a wide range of capacities for various uses, from 1.5 kW up to 33 kW. Designed for indoor operation, these compressors deliver Class 0 Oil Free Air and guarantee superior performance and reliability.

What are scroll compressors used for?

Scroll compressors are well suited for industries and environments that have space restrictions or may require minimal noise disruption. They are often used in small laboratories, pharmaceutical production, electronics, automotive and small-scale beverage manufacturing such as boutique wineries or microbreweries.

Key advantages of scroll compressors:

• Quiet operation: Operates with minimal noise levels, perfect for indoor settings.
• Space-efficient design: Compact footprint, making them ideal for limited space installations.
• Versatile options: A broad range of engine sizes available thanks to their small incremental increases in capacity.
• Energy efficiency: Typically demonstrates high energy efficiency, potentially resulting in long-term cost savings.
• Enhanced reliability: The utilisation of multiple scrolls ensures uninterrupted operation. Even if one scroll fails, the others continue to function, maintaining a consistent airflow.

What are screw compressors?

In contrast, screw compressors operate by utilising helical screws or rotors to compress air continuously in industrial settings. These compressors employ a rotary mechanism where the intermeshing screws or rotors compress the air as they rotate. Hitachi Global Air Power’s DSP Rotary Screw compressor series offers capacities ranging from 22 kW up to 240 kW, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications.

Utilising innovative air end construction and noise-reduction technologies, the DSP series guarantees longevity, high efficiency and Class 0 Oil-Free Air for crucial industries. Our DSP Rotary Screw compressors can also be enhanced with a Variable Speed Drive (VSD) add-on, providing added flexibility and energy efficiency, especially advantageous in environments with fluctuating air demand.

What are screw compressors used for?

Screw compressors excel in high-volume manufacturing environments where continuous and reliable performance is crucial. They are commonly used in industries such as food and beverage manufacturing, large-scale pharmaceutical productions and utilities.

Key advantages of screw compressors:

• High efficiency: Ensures reliable operation even in demanding industrial settings.
• Wide application range: Versatile solution for various air flow and pressure requirements.
• Robust design: Engineered for heavy-duty industrial demands, guaranteeing reliability and durability under continuous operation.
• Extended service life: Built with durable materials providing longevity for sustained performance over time.

Which air compressor is right for you?

Determining the optimal compressor for your needs hinges on various factors, including budget and the operating environment. Assessing aspects such as air demand, spatial limitations and noise considerations will help you make a well-informed decision.

Whether you opt for a scroll or screw compressor, Hitachi Global Air Power provides an extensive selection of reliable oil-free compressed air equipment designed to meet your specific requirements.

Want to continue exploring your options?

You can filter our product range to suit your requirements here. 

Alternatively, you can contact your local branch for personalised advice.