Compressor Basics and Sizing
Practical guides on industrial air compressors, pumps, and vacuum systems from Brabazon engineers, backed by free sizing calculators that show every formula.
Browse industrial air compressors
Section 179 and Compressed Air Equipment: What It Covers and Why December 31 Matters
Section 179 lets you expense a new air compressor in the year you put it in service. Here is what qualifies in 2026, what "placed in service" actually means, and why the order date is the one that matters.
All articles
Water Cooled Air Compressors: Benefits for Industrial Use
Explore the benefits of water cooled air compressors for industrial applications. Brabazon helps Midwest facilities choose and maintain water-cooled compressor systems.
Air Cooled vs Water Cooled Air Compressors: Which Is Right for You?
Compare air cooled vs water cooled air compressors for your facility. Brabazon helps Midwest manufacturers choose and maintain the right compressor configuration.
Compressed Air Solutions for Industrial Facilities
An overview of compressed air solutions for industrial operations. Brabazon provides equipment, service, maintenance & rentals across 7 branches serving 14 metro areas.
Industrial Air Compressors 101: A Beginner's Guide
New to industrial air compressors? Brabazon's beginner's guide covers types, uses & how to choose the right compressor for your Midwest facility.
How to Select an Industrial Air Compressor for Your Facility
Learn how to choose the right industrial air compressor for your facility. Brabazon's factory-trained experts serve Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota and Missouri with 24/7 support.
Air Compressor Components: Parts of a Compressed Air System
Learn the main components of an industrial air compressor system - from the compressor and motor to air dryers, filters, tanks and piping. A complete parts guide from Brabazon.
Air Compressor Pressure Regulator: How It Works and How to Set It
Learn how air compressor pressure regulators work, how to set them correctly, and how to troubleshoot regulator failures. A complete guide for industrial and shop use.
Air Compressor Storage Tanks: When to Add One & How to Size It
Adding a compressed air storage tank can solve pressure drop, reduce compressor cycling, and cut energy costs. Learn when storage helps and how to calculate the right size.
Compressed Air for Metal Fabrication & Stamping: Complete Guide
Metal fabrication and stamping shops have demanding compressed air needs. Learn how to size and specify your system for laser cutting, plasma, presses, and more.
Compressed Air Piping: Materials, Sizing & Best Practices
A complete guide to compressed air piping - pipe materials, sizing, layout design, and installation best practices to minimize pressure drop and maximize system efficiency.
How Much CFM Do I Need? Air Compressor Sizing Guide
Calculate the CFM your air compressor needs. Learn how to add up tool requirements, account for demand peaks, and right-size your system for your facility.
Reciprocating Air Compressor: What It Is and When to Use One
Learn what a reciprocating (piston) air compressor is, how it works, its pros and cons vs rotary screw, and when it's the right choice for your industrial application.
Free calculators and where to go next
- CFM calculator: how much cfm do you need? Estimate from your tools or motor HP.
- Air receiver tank calculator: recommended gallons from demand, pressure drop, and hold time.
- Compressed air leak calculator: what the DOE 20 to 30 percent leak loss costs you per year.
- Industrial air compressors: the full category of machines behind these guides.
Questions on your own system? Call 800.825.3222 and ask for an engineer. We answer 24/7.
Talk to an Expert Today
We cover Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, and Missouri from 7 branches serving 14 metro areas, and the 24/7 line is staffed by real people, not voicemail. Tell us what you run and we will tell you what we would do.