ES 
Home & garage use
Ideal for inflation, cleaning, blowing, stapling, and light painting. These are occasional-use applications where portability, ease of operation, and low maintenance are typically prioritized.
View Air•co compressorsResource center · CBS Air Compressors
How to Select Your Air Compressor
Interactive guide to choosing the ideal air compressor for your application. Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
In this section you will find an interactive guide to help you choose the ideal air compressor for your application. With just a few questions about your process, workload, and operating conditions, you will identify the capacity range you need and the models that best fit your industry.
Takes 2–3 minutes · If you prefer, a live advisor can assist you.
Interactive tool
2–3 minutes
Advisory available
Compressed Air Applications
What applications use compressed air?
Compressed air is used in residential, professional, and industrial applications. Choosing the right technology depends on air demand, operating continuity, required pressure, and the level of air purity each process demands.
Workshops & general trades
Auto repair, tire shops, painting, technical service, and maintenance require a versatile solution. When multiple tools operate simultaneously, available CFM and compressor recovery time are decisive.
View workshop solutions
Woodworking, metalworking & other trades
Nail guns, staplers, spray guns, blowing, and finishing require a stable and flexible solution. Specialized finishing may require better filtration, but going directly to an oil-free solution is not always necessary.
View trade solutions
Dental clinics
Dental units require clean, dry, and quiet air. Depending on the number of units and workflow pace, the solution may range from a small oil-free piston to a higher-capacity Class 0 scroll compressor.
View dental solutions
Laboratories, pharma & food industry
In sensitive processes, air purity and operational continuity are the top priorities. Both compact oil-free solutions and higher-capacity Class 0 scroll systems can be effective.
View oil-free solutions
Manufacturing & heavy industry
Production lines, automation, and continuous operation require robust and efficient solutions. Rotary screw or scroll compressors may be used, in both lubricated and oil-free versions.
View industrial compressors
Home & garage use
Ideal for inflation, cleaning, blowing, stapling, and light painting. These are occasional-use applications where portability, ease of operation, and low maintenance are typically prioritized.
View Air•co compressorsWhen does this apply?
Personal garage, tire inflation, small workshop cleaning, home spray gun, light nail guns. Typical use: 1–3 hours per week.
Personal garage, tire inflation, small workshop cleaning, home spray gun, light nail guns. Typical use: 1–3 hours per week.
Workshops & general trades
Auto repair, tire shops, painting, technical service, and maintenance. When multiple tools operate simultaneously, CFM and compressor recovery time are decisive.
View workshop solutionsKey factor: Simultaneous CFM
Add up the consumption of all tools operating at the same time and include a 20–30% margin. An impact wrench + blow gun can demand 7–9 CFM simultaneously.
Add up the consumption of all tools operating at the same time and include a 20–30% margin. An impact wrench + blow gun can demand 7–9 CFM simultaneously.
Woodworking, metalworking & other trades
Nail guns, staplers, spray guns, blowing, and finishing. In specialized work, better filtration may be required, but going directly to an oil-free solution is not always necessary.
View trade solutionsDo I need oil-free for painting?
Not always. A lubricated piston with a coalescing filter can be sufficient for decorative painting. High-end automotive or industrial finishes do benefit from oil-free technology.
Not always. A lubricated piston with a coalescing filter can be sufficient for decorative painting. High-end automotive or industrial finishes do benefit from oil-free technology.
Dental clinics
Dental units require clean, dry, and quiet air. The solution may range from a small oil-free piston to a Class 0 scroll depending on the number of units.
View dental solutions
Laboratories, pharma & food industry
Air purity and operational continuity are the top priorities. Both compact oil-free solutions and higher-capacity Class 0 scroll systems can be effective.
View oil-free solutions
Manufacturing & heavy industry
Production lines, automation, and continuous operation require robust and efficient solutions. Rotary screw or scroll compressors may be used, lubricated or oil-free.
View industrial compressorsContinuous operation = screw or scroll
For duty cycles above 75%, the industrial rotary screw compressor is the most efficient and durable solution. VSD models adjust output to actual demand and reduce energy consumption.
For duty cycles above 75%, the industrial rotary screw compressor is the most efficient and durable solution. VSD models adjust output to actual demand and reduce energy consumption.
Can’t identify your application or unsure which technology is right for you? Our advisors can help you at no cost.
Technical Parameters
Key factors for choosing an air compressor
Every compressed air system is defined by four variables: pressure, airflow, duty cycle, and air quality. Understanding them before using the selection tool helps you choose a more accurate solution and avoid purchasing errors, pressure drops, and costly oversizing.
PSIWorking pressure
CFMFree air flow rate
CycleDuty cycle
ISOAir quality
Working pressure (PSI / bar)
Pressure indicates the force at which air reaches the point of use. Each tool, machine, or process requires a minimum value to operate correctly. The compressor must meet that actual demand and account for natural losses in piping, fittings, filters, and hoses.
For special applications, CBS also offers high-pressure solutions with two-stage piston compressors and boosters to operate well above typical general-use ranges.
| Application | Typical PSI |
|---|---|
| HVLP spray gun | 40–60 PSI |
| Dental unit or turbine | 60–80 PSI |
| Impact wrench | 90–120 PSI |
| Industrial automation | 100–175 PSI |
How do piping losses affect performance?
Every meter of piping, elbow, filter, or valve creates a pressure drop. It is common to add 10–20 PSI above the nominal value of the most demanding tool to ensure correct pressure at the point of use.
Every meter of piping, elbow, filter, or valve creates a pressure drop. It is common to add 10–20 PSI above the nominal value of the most demanding tool to ensure correct pressure at the point of use.
High pressure and boosters
When an application requires pressures above 175 PSI, high-pressure piston compressors or boosters can be integrated as complementary technology for screw compressor systems.
When an application requires pressures above 175 PSI, high-pressure piston compressors or boosters can be integrated as complementary technology for screw compressor systems.
Free air flow rate (CFM / L/min)
Airflow indicates how much air volume the compressor can deliver. It is the most important factor when multiple tools or consumption points operate simultaneously. To correctly estimate your demand, add up simultaneous consumption and leave a reserve margin.
| Tool | Required CFM |
|---|---|
| Blow gun | 1–3 CFM |
| Spray gun | 4–8 CFM |
| 1/2″ impact wrench | 4–5 CFM |
| Orbital sander | 8–12 CFM |
How to calculate your total CFM
1. List the tools you would use simultaneously.
2. Add up their CFM consumption.
3. Multiply by 1.25 (25% margin).
The result is your minimum target CFM.
1. List the tools you would use simultaneously.
2. Add up their CFM consumption.
3. Multiply by 1.25 (25% margin).
The result is your minimum target CFM.
CFM vs HP: what should I measure?
HP is the motor power, but it does not guarantee actual airflow. Always verify the delivered CFM on the spec sheet at the working pressure you need.
HP is the motor power, but it does not guarantee actual airflow. Always verify the delivered CFM on the spec sheet at the working pressure you need.
Duty Cycle
The duty cycle represents how long the compressor can operate under load without compromising its service life. Occasional home use is not the same as a full workshop shift or continuous industrial operation. Choosing incorrectly here causes overheating, shutdowns, and premature wear.
| Type | Max duty cycle |
|---|---|
| Home piston | 25–50% |
| Industrial piston | 60–75% |
| Scroll | 75–100% |
| Industrial screw | 100% |
What does a 50% duty cycle mean?
It means the compressor can operate under load 50% of the time each hour. In an 8-hour shift, it would operate a maximum of 4 hours under load. If your process demands more, you need a higher duty cycle technology.
It means the compressor can operate under load 50% of the time each hour. In an 8-hour shift, it would operate a maximum of 4 hours under load. If your process demands more, you need a higher duty cycle technology.
The danger of exceeding the duty cycle
Exceeding the duty cycle causes overheating, accelerated wear of valves and rings, and can shorten the compressor’s service life by half. For continuous operation, the industrial screw compressor is the only technology designed for 100% duty cycle.
Exceeding the duty cycle causes overheating, accelerated wear of valves and rings, and can shorten the compressor’s service life by half. For continuous operation, the industrial screw compressor is the only technology designed for 100% duty cycle.
Compressed air quality (ISO 8573-1)
Not all applications require the same level of cleanliness. In workshops, an intermediate quality may suffice, while sensitive processes need to control particles, moisture, and oil. For critical applications, it is advisable to complement with drying and filtration and integrate specific air treatment equipment.
| ISO Class | Application |
|---|---|
| Class 3–4 | Workshops and general tools |
| Class 1–2 | Painting, laboratory, electronics |
| Class 0 | Pharmaceutical, food, dental |
What does the ISO class control?
The ISO 8573-1 standard measures three contaminants: solid particles, moisture (dew point), and oil. Final air quality depends on all three parameters.
The ISO 8573-1 standard measures three contaminants: solid particles, moisture (dew point), and oil. Final air quality depends on all three parameters.
Treatment accessories
The compressor technology defines the starting point, but final quality is achieved with the complete system: refrigerated dryers, coalescing filters, activated carbon filters, and condensate separators.
The compressor technology defines the starting point, but final quality is achieved with the complete system: refrigerated dryers, coalescing filters, activated carbon filters, and condensate separators.
Technical guideCompressed air drying and filtration
CatalogRefrigerated air dryers
CatalogCompressed air filter trains
Need help estimating the total CFM, working pressure, or air quality your process requires?
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User Guide
How to use the compressor selection tool
The tool guides you step by step to evaluate electrical compatibility, air demand, and actual operating conditions. Based on your answers, it generates a preliminary recommendation and helps you identify the most suitable technology for your application.
01
Electrical service
Select the type of service available at your facility, such as single-phase or three-phase, along with the voltage. This step filters from the start which equipment is electrically compatible.
02
Volume and pressure
Enter the required pressure and total CFM for your application. You can enter the airflow manually or add tools from the catalog to build a more precise calculation based on quantity, simultaneity, and recommended margin.
03
Air quality
Indicate whether your process is general or involves sensitive applications such as painting, food, medical/lab, or electronics. This helps suggest technologies and air treatment better suited to your process.
04
Environment and space
The tool takes into account factors such as noise sensitivity and available ventilation. These conditions affect installation, equipment performance, and the suitability of certain technologies.
05
Altitude and climate
Enter the approximate altitude and climate type. In higher-altitude cities or humid environments, it may be necessary to adjust capacity or reinforce compressed air drying.
06
Summary and recommendation
At the end, you will see electrical compatibility, target PSI, recommended CFM, estimated HP, and the suggested compressor type. If desired, you can also leave your contact information for a quote and follow-up with an advisor.
Guidance-based result, not definitive
The tool generates a preliminary recommendation based on the data you enter. To confirm the final selection, especially for critical applications, continuous processes, or complex installations, it is always advisable to review it with a CBS advisor.
The tool generates a preliminary recommendation based on the data you enter. To confirm the final selection, especially for critical applications, continuous processes, or complex installations, it is always advisable to review it with a CBS advisor.
With these six steps, you can obtain a much more useful preliminary recommendation for your application.
CBS Catalog
Available compressor types
CBS manufactures and distributes three main compressor families. Each one responds better to certain ranges of use, pressure, operating continuity, and air quality. Since 1971, developing compressed air solutions for industry, workshops, and professional applications in Mexico.
The reciprocating piston compressor compresses air inside a cylinder. It is a widely used technology due to its accessibility, versatility, and ease of maintenance. Available in lubricated, oil-free, and configurations for different work demands.
- Pressures up to 175 PSI depending on model
- Approximate duty cycle from 25% to 75%
- Lubricated and oil-free options
- Portable and field work versions
Available series
| Parameter | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Max. pressure | up to 175 PSI |
| Duty cycle | 25% – 75% |
| Application | Home / Workshop |
| Oil | Lubricated or Oil-Free |
When to choose piston?
When use is intermittent, investment budget is a priority, and continuous operation is not required. Ideal from home use to mid-size workshops with 4–6 hour daily shifts.
When use is intermittent, investment budget is a priority, and continuous operation is not required. Ideal from home use to mid-size workshops with 4–6 hour daily shifts.
Rotary screw compressors use helical rotors to deliver air continuously and efficiently. They are the most common solution in industrial applications with sustained demand, long shifts, and the need for better energy performance.
- Designed for continuous operation (100% duty cycle)
- Variable speed drive (VSD) options
- Lower operational strain during extended shifts
- Wide range of capacities for industry
Available series
| Parameter | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Duty cycle | 100% |
| Efficiency | High · VSD available |
| Application | Industrial / Continuous |
| Oil | Lubricated |
When to choose screw?
When operation is continuous or the compressor will run more than 6 hours daily. VSD models adjust output to actual demand, reducing energy consumption by up to 35%.
When operation is continuous or the compressor will run more than 6 hours daily. VSD models adjust output to actual demand, reducing energy consumption by up to 35%.
Scroll compressors stand out for their quiet operation and suitability for sensitive applications. In oil-free configurations, they are a highly suitable option for processes where air cleanliness and low noise are key factors.
- Options for clean air applications (Class 0)
- Low noise level depending on model
- Simpler maintenance in certain configurations
- Widely used in dental, laboratory, and sensitive processes
Available series
| Parameter | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Duty cycle | 75% – 100% |
| Noise | Low (up to ~60 dB) |
| Application | Dental / Lab / Pharma |
| Oil | Oil-Free (Class 0) |
When to choose scroll?
When the process requires oil-free air (ISO Class 0) or noise level is a critical factor, such as in dental clinics, laboratories, food industry, or pharmaceutical applications.
When the process requires oil-free air (ISO Class 0) or noise level is a critical factor, such as in dental clinics, laboratories, food industry, or pharmaceutical applications.
55 years developing compressed air solutions for industry, workshops, and professional applications in Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions when selecting a compressor
We answer the most common questions about choosing, sizing, and installing an air compressor. If your question is not listed here, our advisors are available to help you at no cost.
The correct size depends mainly on the total CFM your tools or process demand, and the minimum working pressure. Add up the consumption of all equipment that will operate simultaneously and include a margin of at least 20–25%. The selection tool on this page guides you step by step to arrive at that figure more precisely.
If the compressor cannot replenish air as fast as you consume it, system pressure will drop below the required level. This causes tools to operate with less power, frequent on-off cycling, and the compressor working at its duty cycle limit, accelerating wear. It is always better to have slight oversizing than undersizing.
Yes, significantly. At higher altitudes, air density decreases, which reduces the actual airflow the compressor can deliver. In cities like Mexico City (2,240 m), Guadalajara (1,566 m), or Monterrey (538 m), the impact varies. The selection tool takes altitude into account as one of its parameters to adjust the recommendation.
It depends on your application. Most piston compressors include a built-in tank. An additional tank is useful when you have high peak consumption, want to reduce motor start frequency, or when the distance between the compressor and the point of use is considerable. CBS offers compressed air storage tanks in various capacities.
The piston compressor compresses air in cycles (on-off), making it ideal for intermittent use. The screw compressor operates continuously with helical rotors, making it more efficient for long shifts and industrial applications. The higher the demand and the more daily operating hours, the better energy performance and lower wear the screw offers.
Not always. A lubricated compressor with an adequate filtration and drying system can achieve ISO 1–2 quality levels, sufficient for many painting, laboratory, and electronics applications. Oil-free technology is essential when ISO Class 0 is required, such as in pharmaceutical, food, or dental industries, where any trace of oil represents a contamination risk for the final product.
VSD stands for Variable Speed Drive. In screw compressors, it allows the motor to adjust its speed based on actual air demand at any given moment, instead of always running at full capacity. This reduces energy consumption by 20–35%, extends equipment service life, and maintains more stable pressure. It is recommended when air demand varies significantly during the workday.
The most important factors are: available electrical service type (single-phase or three-phase, voltage), adequate ventilation of the space, permitted noise level in the area, access for maintenance, and distance to points of use which will determine the piping network design. A CBS advisor can help you review these points before installation.
In most cases, yes. When air is compressed, moisture concentrates and can cause internal pipe corrosion, damage to pneumatic valves, tool failures, and contamination in sensitive processes. A refrigerated dryer is the most common and accessible solution for general use. CBS offers refrigerated air dryers for various capacities.
CBS Compresores de Aire has branches in Guadalajara (headquarters), Monterrey, Queretaro, Leon, and Mexico City. Additionally, it has coverage through authorized distributors in other cities across the country. You can find your nearest branch in the branches and contact section of the site.
Yes. You can request a quote directly through the website form, via WhatsApp, or by contacting your nearest branch. Pre-quote technical advisory is free of charge. If you have already used the selection tool, you can send your summary directly to an advisor to expedite the process.
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