Why do we prefer to use piston compressors rather than rotary screw compressors to back the PTG tyre inflation systems?
Rotary screw compressors are more compact compared to piston compressors but far more expensive. Made for non-stop operation the technique is more complicated and therefore more prone to difficulties. Moreover, they require an additional oil separator that isolates the oil from the compressed air. It is important for the lifespan of the screw compressor to provide sufficient lag after filling the tyres in order to discharge the existing condensate out of the compressor to prevent corrosion of the screw elements. Rotary screw compressors also require regular and very thorough maintenance/cleaning of the air filter. Not properly maintained air filters reduce the lifespan of these compressors significantly.PTG prefers the reliable piston compressors which are often mounted onto the slurry tanker or trailer. It is also possible to add a compressor to the front linkage of the tractor.
