The correct pressure setting for a compressor
Save energy and avoid unnecessary costs: why pressure settings matter
The correct pressure setting of a compressor is much more important than many people realise. In practice, the working pressure is often set higher than actually needed. That may seem safe, but it puts unnecessary strain on your entire compressed air system. By accurately matching the pressure to your work, you create a more efficient installation and prevent wear on pipes and tools. Even a small adjustment to the settings can make a measurable difference in daily energy use.
The disadvantages of pressure that is too high
Many users set the pressure of their compressor on the high side to make sure there is enough pressure at the workplace. But this is not always the best solution. The higher the pressure, the more energy a compressor needs to build and maintain it. A compressor that consistently runs at too high a pressure:
- Uses more energy
- Runs harder than technically necessary
- Causes more wear throughout the entire system
- Increases the risk of losses and leaks in the pipework
What is working pressure and how do you determine it?
Working pressure is the pressure that must actually be available at the point of use for your machines or tools to function properly. This is not the same as the pressure setting of the compressor itself. In practice, a compressor should always be set slightly higher than the minimum required working pressure. This is because pressure loss occurs along the way, for example through filters and dryers or due to resistance in long pipe runs.
Cut-in pressure and cut-out pressure
In a compressor installation, we often work with cut-in and cut-out pressure: the compressor switches on when the pressure drops to the set minimum and switches off once the maximum pressure has been reached. A well-set compressor operates within a smart pressure range: high enough to ensure continuity in your processes, but low enough to limit unnecessary energy use and wear.
Direct energy savings through pressure optimisation
Energy costs make up the largest part of the total cost of a compressor. That is exactly why optimising the pressure setting delivers a direct financial benefit. A rule of thumb in compressed air technology is that every 1 bar reduction lowers your energy costs by around 7%. Over a full year, this can add up to significant savings, especially with intensive use or larger screw compressors where every running hour counts.
Need advice on the right pressure setting?
Not sure what pressure your compressor needs? It is wise to look at the entire compressed air installation, including the pipework and the specific application. We are happy to advise you on the correct working pressure and an efficient system setup. Together, we can prevent unnecessary energy use and avoid an installation running harder than needed.
