Air Compressors
Browse by compressor type or jump to the comparison guide for help choosing the right option
Choose the Best Route for Your Application
If you already know the compressor type you need, browse the categories below. If you are still comparing options, jump to the air compressor comparison guide further down the page for quick recommendations and side-by-side guidance.
Rotary Screw Air Compressors
Ideal for continuous-duty industrial applications.
View Category →Energy Efficient Air Compressors (VSD)
Designed to reduce energy use where air demand varies.
View Category →
Piston Air Compressors
Reliable solutions for workshops and intermittent demand.
View Category →Smoke Ventilation Air Compressors
Specialist compressor solutions for smoke ventilation systems.
View Category →Dentist & Medical Medic+Air Air Compressors
Clean air solutions for dental and medical applications.
View Category →
Petrol Air Compressors
Portable options for site and remote applications.
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Diesel Air Compressors
Portable compressors suited to demanding site use.
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Wall Mounted Air Compressors
Compact solutions where space saving is important.
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Compressor Kits
Complete packages for convenient setup and operation.
View Category →Industrial Air Compressors for a Wide Range of Applications
At Tanair Compressors, we supply a broad range of industrial air compressors designed to suit workshops, manufacturing environments, specialist industries and mobile applications.
Our range includes rotary screw air compressors, energy efficient VSD air compressors, piston compressors and specialist models for medical, dental, smoke ventilation and site use.
Whether you need a compressor for continuous industrial demand, intermittent workshop use or portable on-site operation, our team can help you find the right solution for performance, efficiency and reliability.
- Rotary Screw Air Compressors: Ideal for continuous-duty industrial applications.
- Energy Efficient VSD Compressors: Designed to reduce energy use and improve operational efficiency.
- Piston Air Compressors: Reliable workshop solutions for intermittent demand.
- Medical & Dental Compressors: Clean air solutions for specialist environments.
- Petrol & Diesel Compressors: Portable options for on-site and remote applications.
- Wall Mounted Compressors: Compact solutions where space saving matters.
- Compressor Kits: Complete packages for convenient setup and operation.
Industries We Support
We help businesses across a wide range of sectors choose, install, maintain and support compressed air systems suited to their applications.
Energy, Process & Heavy Industry
Robust compressed air systems for demanding industrial operations.
Food & Beverage
Clean and reliable air solutions for production and packaging environments.
Automotive & Transport
Dependable air supply for workshops, service bays and industrial support roles.
Manufacturing & Engineering
Efficient compressor systems for routine production and plant operations.
Air Compressor Comparison Guide
Use the guide below to compare piston, rotary screw, vane and energy-efficient VSD compressors. This section is designed to help customers who are still deciding which compressor type best suits their usage pattern and air demand.
Which air compressor is right for you?
Answer two quick questions and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Prefer to speak to an expert? Call 0121 753 3330 and we’ll recommend the right system for your application.
| Type | Best For | Use Pattern | Noise | Efficiency | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Piston Reciprocating |
Workshops & light use | Intermittent | Higher | Lower |
|
| Rotary Screw | Industrial & higher demand sites | Continuous | Lower | High |
|
| Vane Sliding Vane |
Smooth daily use & dependable output | Continuous | Low | High |
|
| Energy-Efficient VSD / Variable Speed |
Sites with changing air demand | Variable | Low | Very High |
|
Piston (Reciprocating)
- Best for: Workshops & light use
- Use pattern: Intermittent
- Noise: Higher
- Efficiency: Lower
Cost-effective & proven
View Piston CompressorsRotary Screw
- Best for: Industrial & higher demand
- Use pattern: Continuous
- Noise: Lower
- Efficiency: High
Smooth, reliable continuous air
View Rotary ScrewVane (Sliding Vane)
- Best for: Smooth daily use
- Use pattern: Continuous
- Noise: Low
- Efficiency: High
Consistent output & dependable
View Vane CompressorsEnergy-Efficient (VSD)
- Best for: Variable air demand
- Use pattern: Variable
- Noise: Low
- Efficiency: Very High
Designed to match output to demand and significantly reduce energy costs.
View Energy-Efficient CompressorsQuick FAQs
Which compressor is best for a workshop?
Piston compressors are typically a cost-effective choice for light, intermittent workshop use.
Which compressor is best for continuous industrial use?
Rotary screw or vane compressors are usually best suited to continuous demand environments.
When should I choose a VSD compressor?
If your air demand varies during the day, VSD can reduce wasted energy by matching output to demand.
Support & Aftercare
Choosing the right air compressor is only one part of the process. We also support installation, servicing, repairs, spares and ongoing technical advice to help keep your compressed air system performing properly over time.
12 Month Warranty
Peace of mind on workshop compressor ranges.
UK Installation Available
Professional on-site setup by experienced technicians.
Full Aftermarket Support
Spares, repairs and service support when needed.
UK-Based Technical Advice
Expert support from a knowledgeable team.
Our Expert Services
Alongside air compressor supply, we also support businesses with breakdown response, installations, servicing, trade counter support and general compressed air advice.
24/7 Emergency Breakdown
Rapid response support for air compressor malfunctions.
View Service →Installations
Expert design and pipework installation support.
View Service →Servicing
Maintenance support to keep systems running efficiently.
View Service →Visit Our Trade Counter
Meet the team in person at the Birmingham trade counter.
Get Directions →Air Compressor FAQs
Which air compressor is best for a workshop?
Piston compressors are typically a cost-effective choice for light, intermittent workshop use.
Which compressor is best for continuous industrial use?
Rotary screw or vane compressors are usually best suited to continuous demand environments.
When should I choose a VSD compressor?
If your air demand varies during the day, a VSD compressor can help reduce wasted energy by matching output to demand.
Can you help me choose the correct compressor?
Yes. If you are unsure which type is best for your application, call 0121 753 3330 and our team can help point you in the right direction.
At Compressed Air Systems UK, we specialise in supplying a wide range of air compressors designed to suit the demands of multiple industries. From cost-effective solutions to cutting-edge, state-of-the-art models, our products reflect the latest advancements in compressed air technology.
Our services and expertise include:
- Extensive Air Compressor Range: A diverse selection of air compressors suitable for various industrial applications, from budget-friendly options to advanced, high-performance systems.
- Expert Consultation: Our experienced team works closely with you to understand your operations and recommend the most suitable air compressor system for your business.
- Tailored Solutions: We analyse your specific requirements to deliver solutions that enhance productivity, improve efficiency, and support long-term performance.
- Comprehensive Product Information: Easily compare models with detailed technical specifications to help you make an informed decision.
- Multiple Compressor Types Available: Including piston, screw, vane, Variable Speed, and energy-efficient air compressors to suit all operational needs.
- Ongoing Support: Our team is always on hand to provide guidance and assistance whenever you need it.
Partner with Compressed Air Systems UK for all your compressed air needs, and experience unmatched service and support from our knowledgeable team. If you’d like to explore our full range of air compressors or require expert advice, please browse our selection or contact us on 01217 533330.
Piston Air Compressors
Piston (reciprocating) air compressors are a reliable, cost-effective choice for workshops and light-to-medium industrial use. They’re ideal where compressed air is needed in shorter bursts rather than continuous operation.
Key benefits include:
- Cost-effective and dependable: ideal for general workshop applications.
- Simple, proven design: straightforward to use, maintain, and service.
- Flexible options: available in oil-free or lubricated models and multiple voltages.
- Great for intermittent demand: best suited where noise is not the primary concern.
View Piston Air Compressors or call 0121 7533 330 for advice.
Rotary Screw Air Compressors
Rotary screw air compressors are designed for consistent, reliable compressed air—making them ideal for demanding industrial and commercial environments. They’re particularly well suited to applications requiring regular or continuous air usage.
Key benefits include:
- Continuous air supply: ideal for higher-demand sites and regular usage.
- Smoother, quieter operation: typically lower noise than piston compressors.
- Efficient long-run performance: well suited to extended operating hours.
- Durable and dependable: designed for everyday industrial use.
View Rotary Screw Air Compressors or call 0121 7533 330 for support.
What Are Vane Air Compressors?
Vane (or sliding vane) air compressors use a rotating rotor fitted with vanes that slide in and out, creating compression chambers that generate a smooth, consistent air output.
Key benefits include:
- Smooth, steady delivery: a consistent supply of compressed air for everyday use.
- Reliable performance: a robust option for many industrial applications.
- Lower noise levels: typically quieter than many piston compressor setups.
View Vane Air Compressors or call 0121 7533 330 to discuss your requirements.
Energy-Efficient Air Compressors
Compressed air can be one of the highest running costs in a facility. Energy-efficient compressors—especially Variable Speed Drive (VSD) models—help reduce wasted power and lower long-term operating costs.
VSD compressors automatically adjust motor speed to match real-time air demand, helping maintain stable pressure while using only the energy required.
Key benefits include:
- Reduced energy consumption: avoids unnecessary running at full output.
- Ideal for fluctuating demand: matches output to real-time usage.
- Stable pressure control: improves efficiency and consistency.
- Lower lifetime running costs: potential for significant savings over time.
View Energy-Efficient Air Compressors or call 0121 7533 330 for help choosing the right system.
Air Compressor Comparison Guide
Which air compressor is right for you?
Answer two quick questions and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Prefer to speak to an expert? Call 0121 753 3330 and we’ll recommend the right system for your application.
| Type | Best For | Use Pattern | Noise | Efficiency | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Piston Reciprocating |
Workshops & light use | Intermittent | Higher | Lower |
|
| Rotary Screw | Industrial & higher demand sites | Continuous | Lower | High |
|
| Vane Sliding Vane |
Smooth daily use & dependable output | Continuous | Low | High |
|
| Energy-Efficient VSD / Variable Speed |
Sites with changing air demand | Variable | Low | Very High |
|
Piston (Reciprocating)
- Best for: Workshops & light use
- Use pattern: Intermittent
- Noise: Higher
- Efficiency: Lower
Cost-effective & proven
View Piston CompressorsRotary Screw
- Best for: Industrial & higher demand
- Use pattern: Continuous
- Noise: Lower
- Efficiency: High
Smooth, reliable continuous air
View Rotary ScrewVane (Sliding Vane)
- Best for: Smooth daily use
- Use pattern: Continuous
- Noise: Low
- Efficiency: High
Consistent output & dependable
View Vane CompressorsEnergy-Efficient (VSD)
- Best for: Variable air demand
- Use pattern: Variable
- Noise: Low
- Efficiency: Very High
Designed to match output to demand and significantly reduce energy costs.
View Energy-Efficient CompressorsQuick FAQs
Which compressor is best for a workshop?
Piston compressors are typically a cost-effective choice for light, intermittent workshop use.
Which compressor is best for continuous industrial use?
Rotary screw or vane compressors are usually best suited to continuous demand environments.
When should I choose a VSD compressor?
If your air demand varies during the day, VSD can reduce wasted energy by matching output to demand.
Industries We Support
Support & Aftercare
Our Expert Services
24/7 EMERGENCY BREAKDOWN
Rapid response for all air compressor malfunctions, anytime you need us.
View ServiceINSTALLATIONS
Expert design and bespoke pipework installations tailored to your site.
View ServiceSERVICING
Comprehensive maintenance to keep your air systems running at peak performance.
View ServiceVISIT OUR TRADE COUNTER
Come meet our experts in person at our dedicated Birmingham trade hub.
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Browse our full range of air compressors, parts, and industrial tools online.
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