Mail:info@vovlift.com
Phone: +1 (307) 441-5529
Mail:info@vovlift.com
Mon to Fri (10 AM to 6 PM) ET
Mail:info@vovlift.com
Phone: +1 (307) 441-5529
Mail:info@vovlift.com
Mon to Fri (10 AM to 6 PM) ET
A single-stage compressor squeezes air in one step and sends it straight to the tank. A two-stage (2 stage) compressor splits the job: a larger low-pressure cylinder compresses intake air partway, the air is cooled between stages, and a smaller high-pressure cylinder finishes the compression before the air enters the tank. Because each cylinder does only part of the work, the pump runs cooler and reaches higher pressure with less strain per stroke. Every compressor in this collection is rated for a maximum pressure of 175 PSI, and each listing shows CFM at max pressure, so you can see how much air the pump still produces at the top of its range.
Single-stage units suit light, intermittent use such as inflating tires or running a nailer now and then. A two-stage piston compressor makes more sense when several people use air at once, or when you run air-hungry tools like sanders, grinders, impact wrenches and spray guns for long stretches. If your facility needs high-volume air around the clock, compare these piston units with our EMAX rotary screw air compressors, or browse the full compressors range.
Size by airflow (CFM) first, then horsepower. Add up the CFM ratings of the tools that will run at the same time, compare that total with the CFM at your working pressure, and leave headroom for growth.
| Motor / pump type | Tank options | Rated CFM | CFM at 175 PSI | Pump model |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 HP, pressure-lubricated | 80 gallon | 19 CFM | 17 CFM | APP2I0524TP |
| 7.5 HP, pressure-lubricated | 80 or 120 gallon | 31 CFM | 26 CFM | APP4V1043TP |
| 10 HP, pressure-lubricated | 80 or 120 gallon | 38 CFM | 34 CFM | APP4V1043TP |
| 7.5 HP, splash-lubricated (ESS07V080Z1) | 80 gallon | 35 CFM | 30 CFM | Three-cylinder |
| 7.5 HP, splash-lubricated (ESS07V080Y1) | 80 gallon | 26 CFM | 24 CFM | APP3Y0732TR2 |
| 10 HP, splash-lubricated (ESS10V080V1) | 80 gallon | 38 CFM | 34 CFM | APP4V1043TR2 |
All tanks in this range are vertical, which saves floor space. An 80 gallon air compressor has the smaller footprint and a 3/4" air outlet. A 120 gallon air compressor stores more air, which helps cover short bursts of heavy use and reduces how often the motor starts; these models use a 1" air outlet.
Match the compressor to the power you actually have. Single-phase models run on 230V; three-phase models come in 208–230V and 460V versions. The product data lists a recommended breaker for each:
| Motor | 230V single-phase | 208–230V three-phase | 460V three-phase |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 HP | 40 A | 30 A | 15 A |
| 7.5 HP | 50 A | 40 A | 20 A |
| 10 HP | 60 A | 50 A | 25 A |
Starting amps are much higher than full-load amps, and most models include a magnetic starter. Have a licensed electrician plan wiring and circuit protection according to the manufacturer's instructions and local electrical code.
Pressure-lubricated pumps (APP4V1043TP and APP2I0524TP) carry an estimated pump life of 70,000 hours in the product data, while the splash-lubricated ESS models list 50,000 hours. Every model has a 60% duty cycle, and many are listed as continuous-run capable; the ESS07V080Z1 is noted as not rated for continuous-run service. Single-phase models use ODP (open drip-proof) motors, which need a clean, dry room. Three-phase models use TEFC motors, whose enclosed design is better suited to dusty shops.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and your site's safety program for installation, anchoring and operation.
Standard models give you the compressor itself. Package versions (SKUs ending in PK) bundle extras that vary by model, such as a refrigerated air dryer rated at 30 CFM or 58 CFM with built-in prefilters, a dual-timer electric tank drain, and Silent Air on some units. Product data lists ETL, ASME and CRN certifications for these compressors. See the wider EMAX air compressors lineup for other configurations.
A two-stage compressor compresses air twice. A larger cylinder raises intake air to an intermediate pressure, the air is cooled, and a smaller cylinder compresses it again before it enters the tank. Splitting the work keeps the pump cooler and makes higher pressure easier to reach. The EMAX two-stage models in this collection are rated to 175 PSI.
Choose by footprint and demand. An 80 gallon tank takes less floor space and uses a 3/4" air outlet. A 120 gallon tank stores more air to cover bursts of heavy use and reduce motor starts, and uses a 1" air outlet. Both tank sizes are vertical and pair with 7.5 HP or 10 HP motors in this range.
Pick the phase your building already has. Single-phase models run on 230V, which suits many small shops. Three-phase models come in 208–230V and 460V versions and draw lower full-load amps at higher voltage. Check the recommended breaker on each listing and have a licensed electrician confirm your service against the manufacturer's instructions.
It depends on the model. Every compressor here lists a 60% duty cycle, and many are described as continuous-run capable. The splash-lubricated ESS07V080Z1 is noted as not rated for continuous-run service. If your shop needs air nonstop at high volume, compare these with rotary screw compressors and follow the manufacturer's operating instructions.
No single brand is best for every shop. Judge a compressor by its CFM at your working pressure, duty cycle, electrical requirements, pump design and how easy it is to service. This collection focuses on EMAX two-stage piston compressors, and each listing shows those specs so you can compare models side by side before you decide.
A four-stage compressor compresses air in four steps, cooling it between each one. Extra stages are used when a process needs far higher pressure than shop tools require, such as breathing-air or specialty gas filling. For automotive, fabrication and general industrial work, a two-stage piston compressor is the common choice.
Reciprocating compressors are usually grouped as single-acting, where the piston compresses air on one side only, and double-acting, where it compresses on both sides. They are also classified by stages, single-stage or two-stage, and by lubrication. The EMAX pumps here are two-stage and either pressure-lubricated or splash-lubricated.