What Is a Continuous-Duty Air Compressor?
The duty cycle of an air compressor refers to the length of time the compressor can operate before it gets too hot and must shut down to cool off. Also known as the run time, the duty cycle is the amount of time that the compressor supplies consistent airflow (cfm) and pressure (psi). For instance, if the total cycle time of an air compressor is 10 minutes, and during that time it runs for six minutes and rests for four minutes, it would have a 60% duty cycle.
A continuous-duty air compressor typically has a built-in cooling system that eliminates these “on-off-on” cycles. Therefore, they can run for extended periods without having to shut down to cool off. An industrial continuous-duty air compressor can handle heavy-duty applications that require a consistent air supply for hours at a time.
A continuous-duty electric DC air compressor uses solar power, batteries, or electrical outlets instead of a gas motor as a power source. This offers quieter operation while eliminating exhaust fumes, engine maintenance, and the need for gas transport.
Oasis Manufacturing is a leading industry supplier of electric DC air compressors with piston-powered, oil-lubricated compression surpassing the performance of most shop air compressors. We provide durable and efficient models that offer non-stop, reliable operation in a variety of applications.
Benefits of Continuous-Duty Air Compressors
Continuous-duty air compressors from Oasis Manufacturing feature the following benefits:
Consistent airflow and continuous use: Our compressors supply large volumes of consistent and continuous airflow.
Durability: Our equipment is durable and can provide large volumes of air for extended periods, operating daily at 100% duty cycle.
Energy efficiency: Continuous-duty DC air compressors cost less to run and save more energy than fuel-powered compressors without compromising power capabilities.
Environmentally friendly: Our compressors eliminate harmful gas exhaust emissions, oil changes, fuel spills, and the dangers of fume inhalation.
Low maintenance: Since electric DC air compressors do not have a gas engine, they do not require maintenance tasks such as adjusting the carburetor or replacing the fuel filter.
Reduced noise: Our compressors do not have loud engine exhaust systems, reducing the risk of noise complaints in crowded business environments or neighborhoods.
The Oasis Advantage
At Oasis Manufacturing, we offer powerful onboard electric DC air compressors, featuring an impressive maximum pressure rating of 200 psi. Space is a common concern in vehicles, so our air compressors have a small profile and compact mounting options. Powered by batteries, our compressors do away with bulky motors and, in some cases, air tanks. This results in compact units that do not sacrifice quality or power.
Additionally, our electric DC air compressors feature a low-maintenance design, with the following components added to reduce operating temperatures, minimize lubrication discharge, and improve overall efficiency:
12V Continuous-Duty Air Compressor Features
Our 12V continuous-duty air compressor features a specially designed forced-air cooling system for superior continuous performance. The finned head and compressor body are cooled by a 160 cfm fan that is built into the housing shroud, which adds another layer of protection to the compressor. An internal fan helps cool the 5-hp electric motor. This exceptional cooling combination delivers unsurpassed temperature-reducing capabilities, resulting in a duty cycle of 100% at 200 psi.
At Oasis Manufacturing, we have a selection of top-quality electric DC air compressors for both 12-volt and 24-volt electrical systems. While a 12-volt continuous-duty air compressor is compatible with most vehicles, a 24-volt air compressor is typically required for the following applications:
- Heavy equipment
- Military vehicles
- Railway applications
24V Continuous-Duty Air Compressor Features
Our 24V continuous-duty air compressors offer many of the same features as our 12-volt models. The primary difference is that our 24-volt compressors are compatible with 24-volt electrical systems often found in railway, military, heavy equipment, and other applications.
To ensure safe operation, the voltage of the compressor must match the voltage of the vehicle where the unit will be installed. An air compressor designed for 12-volt operation should never be run from a 24-volt system, and vice-versa. Doing so may cause significant damage resulting from misapplication and therefore would void the manufacturer’s warranty.
Oasis Manufacturing carries a wide selection of high-quality, reliable DC air compressors, including 24V continuous-duty, extended-duty, and tank-mounted air compressors.
12V Continuous-Duty Air Compressor vs. 24V Continuous-Duty Air Compressor
- 12V Specifications
12V Specifications
- Nominal Operating Voltage: 12 Vdc
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 21″ x 7″ x 11″
- Net Weight: 65 lbs.
- Motor Type: Series Wound
- Operating Temperature Range: -20 ºC (-4 ºF) to 65 ºC (150 ºF)
- Max Pressure: 200 psi
- Max Restart Pressure: 150 psi
- Current at Max Pressure (200 psi): ≤190 amps
- Flow Rate @ 100 psi: ≥8 cfm
- Duty Cycle @ 100 psi @ 21 ºC (70 ºF): 100% continuous
- 24V Specifications
24V Specifications
- Nominal Operating Voltage: 24 Vdc
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 21″ x 7″ x 11″
- Net Weight: 65 lbs.
- Motor Type: Series Wound
- Operating Temperature Range: -20 ºC (-4 ºF) to 65 ºC (150 ºF)
- Max Pressure: 200 psi
- Max Restart Pressure: 150 psi
- Current at Max Pressure (200 psi): ≤110 amps
- Flow Rate @ 100 psi: ≥8 cfm
- Duty Cycle @ 100 psi @ 21 ºC (70 ºF): 100% continuous
Typical Continuous-Duty Air Compressor Applications
Continuous-duty cycles deliver constant power to tools and machinery without downtime, optimizing efficiency and reducing operating costs. The following industries and applications benefit from the use of DC air compressors with continuous-duty cycles:
- Agriculture
- Air suspension
- Inflating tires in a mobile tire-changing truck
- Maintenance trucks
- Operating pneumatic valves at remote oil/gas well sites
- Powering pneumatic tools
- Service trucks
When selecting the best continuous-duty air compressor for your project, it is vital to consider:
- Tool size
- Environment where the tool(s) will be used
- Safety protocols
- Noise level
- Maintenance requirements
INDUSTRIES SERVED
Many industries rely on air compressors to perform essential tasks, such as:
Assisting with Automotive Repairs
Operating PowerTools
Performing Various Mobile Job Site Tasks
Mobile Tire Changing Trucks
Air Suspension for Busses, Commercial Transport
At Oasis Manufacturing, we offer high-quality air compressors to ensure reliable and efficient operation in a diverse range of industries.
Quality Continuous-Duty Air Compressors From Oasis
Oasis Manufacturing provides customers with top-quality 12-volt and 24-volt continuous-duty DC air compressors. Our energy-efficient solutions offer superior performance and durability even in the most challenging operating conditions. For convenience and mobility, our continuous-duty air compressors can be easily installed into almost any vehicle.
Browse our product catalog or request more information to learn more about our product offerings. To get started with your solution, contact us today.
