Why Is the Air Compressor End (Air End/Element) More Vital than Other Components?

Air compressors use a range of quality components that work together to deliver compressed gas or air reliably and efficiently. But arguably, no component is more critical than the compressor’s air end, otherwise known as the compressor element or compressor stage. 

But what exactly is an air end? What happens if it sustains damage or degrades? And can you replace or repair a faulty air end? In this blog, we will answer all those questions and more.

Do you need personalised advice based on your specific make and model of air compressor? Thanks to our decades of experience, industry-leading partnerships, exceptional customer service, and competitive prices, Anglian Compressors is your go-to resource for all questions and replacements related to air ends in the UK.

Anglian Compressors has been one of the UK’s leading air compression specialists and a premier distributor for Atlas Copco since 1977. We are licensed, insured, and certified to carry out repairs on all makes and models of Atlas Copco compressors, along with many other makes. 

Our goal is to provide the best value, fastest turnaround times, and tailored advice to meet your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about air ends and their importance.

Understanding the Air End

Widely considered the heart of the air compressor, the air end is the component responsible for compressing air or gas. Air ends come in various forms depending on the technology and physical principles employed by the compressor. The two primary principles are dynamic compression and positive displacement:

• Positive Displacement Compression: Reduces the volume of air within the compressor. Common technologies include screw rotors, pistons, and scrolls, which are widely used across industries.
• Dynamic Compression: Relies on centrifugal (turbo) technology to change the speed of air or gas, creating kinetic energy that is then converted into pressure.

Why Is the Air End so Vital?

The air end directly impacts your compressor’s performance, efficiency, and reliability. Damage or degradation to the air end can result in reduced output, increased energy consumption, and higher operating costs. Maintaining its condition is critical for ensuring the compressor operates effectively.

Causes of Air End Deterioration

As with any mechanical component, the performance of your air end deteriorates over time. This process is accelerated in harsh environments with high temperatures, dust, or humidity.

Key causes of air end deterioration include:

• Rounding of screw rotor geometrics.
• Damaged coatings.
• Increased or uneven tolerances, forcing the compressor to work harder.

As the air end degrades, your compressor will consume more energy, leading to higher costs and a greater risk of damage to other components​.

Air End Repair Options

In most cases, repairing an air end requires specialised equipment and expertise, often available only through the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).

Attempting a DIY repair is highly discouraged, as improper handling can:

• Reduce the air end’s lifespan.
• Increase energy consumption.
• Contaminate compressed air with oil, dust, or particles.

If your air end can be repaired, we will restore it to near-new condition using state-of-the-art tools and processes. Contact us to discuss your options.

Replacing a Damaged Air End

Replacing a damaged air end is often more cost-effective than purchasing a new compressor. Many manufacturers, including Atlas Copco, offer replacement programs like the Element Xchange, allowing you to replace your air end with a certified component.

Advantages of programs like Element Xchange include:

• Restoring your compressor’s original performance.
• Optional upgrades for improved efficiency and reliability.
• Guaranteed compatibility with existing components, avoiding issues common with generic parts.

As an authorised Atlas Copco distributor, we can facilitate air end replacements quickly and professionally, ensuring minimal downtime for your operations. Reach out to us for more information.

Thanks to the Atlas Copco Element Xchange program, you can replace your damaged air end with a new one that is correctly sized and 100% compatible with the rest of your compressor’s components. Generically sourced air ends may appear cheaper, but poor performance and reliability can quickly become issues if the generic component does not match the original.

Reach out to us if you want to learn more about the Atlas Copco Element Xchange program. As a premier distributor for Atlas Copco, we can do all the hard work on your behalf and we guarantee fast turnaround times.

Additionally, if you have an extended warranty type service contract with Anglian Compressors, and the air end should need replacing, this will be done, professionally, as part of the overall works.

Is Refurbishing an Option?

For damaged or worn oil-injected rotary screw air ends, refurbishing is a viable alternative to replacement.

Refurbishing involves:

• Restoring the air end to original factory specifications.
• Applying rigorous quality control standards.
• Ensuring reliability and energy efficiency comparable to a new air end.

At our dedicated refurbishing center, we offer competitive pricing and fast turnaround times, minimising the impact on your operations.

Do You Need an Air End Repair or Replacement?

The air end is the most critical component of your air compressor, and keeping it in top condition is vital for maintaining performance and efficiency.

Signs that your air end may need repair or replacement include:

• Increased energy costs.
• Reduced air output or inconsistent performance.
• Visible wear or damage.

For personalised advice and expert support, contact Anglian Compressors today. With nearly five decades of experience, we are proud to serve as a trusted partner for businesses across the UK.