What is a rotary screw air compressor?
A rotary screw air compressor uses two interlocking helical rotors to compress air in a continuous, smooth flow. Unlike piston compressors which work in strokes, a screw air compressor delivers constant pressure and is designed for 100% duty cycle — making it ideal for factories, workshops and any plant that needs reliable compressed air all day.
What is the difference between TryComp and Budget Air?
TryComp is our premium industrial air compressor range — IE3 high-efficiency motors, advanced PLC controller and oversized coolers. Built for demanding continuous industrial duty. Budget Air is our affordable air compressor range — the best-value rotary screw compressor in South Africa, with a 5-year air-end warranty. Both are oil injected screw compressors manufactured to industrial standards.
What is an oil injected screw compressor?
An oil injected screw compressor uses oil to seal, cool and lubricate the rotors inside the air end. The oil is then separated from the compressed air downstream. This is the most common type for general industry, workshops and manufacturing — our entire Budget Air and TryComp ranges are oil injected screw compressors.
What is a VSD screw compressor and do I need one?
A VSD screw compressor (Variable Speed Drive) adjusts motor speed in real time to match your actual air demand. This reduces electricity consumption by up to 35% compared to a fixed-speed unit. VSD is most beneficial where air demand varies significantly through the day — for example between production shifts and idle periods.
What is the difference between belt driven and direct drive compressors?
A belt driven screw compressor connects the motor to the air end via belts and pulleys — easier maintenance and some speed flexibility. A direct drive screw compressor couples the motor directly to the air end for higher efficiency and fewer wear components. Both are available in our TryComp and Budget Air ranges.
How often should I service my air compressor?
Rotary screw compressors should be serviced approximately every 2,000 running hours in normal conditions. In dusty, hot or high-cycle environments, shorten the interval. Service includes: air filter, oil filter, separator element, compressor oil change, belt check, cooler clean and safety checks. Contact us for a planned maintenance schedule.
Do I need an air dryer with my screw compressor?
Yes, in virtually all industrial environments. Compressed air always contains moisture. Without a refrigerated air dryer, moisture condenses in pipes, tools and downstream equipment — causing rust, blockages, product contamination and premature equipment failure. We supply refrigeration and desiccant dryers matched to your compressor.
What air compressor do I need for spray painting?
For air compressor for spray painting, you need a rotary screw compressor paired with a refrigeration dryer and coalescing filter. This delivers clean, dry, oil-free air at stable pressure — essential for a quality finish in automotive and industrial coating applications. The 7.5kW or 11kW Budget Air or TryComp are popular choices for body shops.
What is the rotary screw compressor price in South Africa?
We supply on a request-a-quote basis — rotary screw compressor prices depend on model, configuration (with or without dryer, receiver, VSD) and delivery location. Budget Air offers the most affordable air compressor price in the industrial screw segment. Contact us for a factory-direct price for your specific model and location.
Which cities do you supply and service air compressors?
We supply and service air compressors across South Africa — Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, Pretoria/Tshwane, Durban/KZN, Cape Town, Nelspruit, Polokwane, Rustenburg, Witbank/eMalahleni, Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and more. We also export to Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and other SADC markets.