How to Calculate Electricity Cost of an Air Compressor

This article is more of a “how to guide” on how to calculate electricity cost of an air compressor. An air compressor is a basic fixture in most well-equipped woodworking, metal and automotive shops. They can be used for several tasks, from painting to powering a wide variety of tools. Use motor size, maximum airflow and reserve air capacity to determine an individual machine’s suitability for individual tasks. Once you’ve decided on the right compressor for your application, determine the cost of running one of the machine with a bit of research and a couple of simple tools. In South Africa, electricity cost is a hotly discussed topic and issue, specifically with the much publicised controversies and issues at the country’s electricity provider, Eskom.

You will need the following

1. Clock or stop watch
2. Calculator
3. Utility bill cost per kwh

Instructions

1. Determine the compressor’s running time. Under normal operational conditions, an air compressor cycles on and off throughout the day. Because it only draws power while the compressor motor is actually running, use a clock or stopwatch to keep track of the number of hours and minutes it runs during the work day.
2. Calculate the compressor’s power consumption. The wattage rating is usually stamped on the motor’s metal nameplate. In instances when only the amperage rating is given, determine watts used by multiplying the voltage by the number of amps. For a compressor operating on standard household current, the voltage is 220. Heavy-duty compressors operate on 380 volt 3 phase current and require special wiring and outlets. For example if you have a single phase 220v compressor that draws 15amps, then the watts used would be 220 x 15 = 3300W. 1000W = 1kW
3. Multiply the kW by the running time to determine the kilowatt hours used.
4. Discover the cost of running the compressor by multiplying the kilowatt hours used by the rate charged by your utility company. Have a look at the link for the Eskom Tarrifs and Charges applicable to your area.

Tips & Warnings  

Averaging daily use for at least a week can give you a more accurate picture of monthly electrical consumption. Be sure to Calculate Electricity Cost of your air compressor. A 45kw compressor running throughout the year on 5 days a week 8 hour shifts can cost up to R100,000 in electricity consumption alone. By maintaining with quality spare parts and regular service intervals this cost can be kept to this level and ensure accurate annual budgeting. If you are unsure, please contact one of our technical team staff members to further assist in a quick calculation and if required a complete system audit. A star delta electrical connection will save more electricity than a direct online equivalent starter box.

About Field Air Compressors

Field Air compressors (Pty) Ltd. Was officially established in 1992. We are a company based on family values with over 20-years’ experience in the compressed air industry. We offer many products, specializing in air compressors of most brands. We offer servicing, maintenance, and spares for all types of compressors, as well as hire out units as required. We distribute Chicago Pneumatic Air compressors and air tools. Our sales team offer friendly service and we have an experienced technical team to offer you any technical advice when required. Have a look at our Field Air Compressors Products Range for more information

Please note the content of this article has been adapted from an external source.