Across industries, compressed air is the hidden force keeping operations moving. But while demand for air remains constant, many businesses are still using compressors designed for intermittent use, leading to inconsistent performance, high energy costs and unexpected downtime.
“Too many companies are relying on reciprocating compressors that simply weren’t built for the level of demand we’re seeing today,” says Darren Binns, National Sales Manager at Jefferson Tools. “They might be cheaper up front, but the operational costs and performance trade-offs add up fast.”
In response, Jefferson Tools has expanded its range of rotary screw compressors. The new models, launched this summer, are designed to give small and medium-sized businesses the same 24/7 reliability, efficiency and noise reduction already trusted by major manufacturers.
Reciprocating (or piston) compressors remain common across workshops and production floors — but they come with drawbacks. Their stop-start cycling, pulsating airflow and higher noise output make them less than ideal for today’s precision-driven, energy-conscious operations.
“These machines have their place,” says Binns, “but not when you’re running tools all day or powering sensitive processes. They’re loud, they vibrate more, and the maintenance costs creep up the harder you work them.”
Screw compressors, by contrast, are engineered for constant airflow, quieter operation, and longer duty cycles. With fewer moving parts, they also require less frequent maintenance.
The newest additions to Jefferson Tools’ range include a 160-litre 3HP screw compressor and a 200-litre 5.5HP model with integrated air dryer. Both are efficient and ideal for operations ready to upgrade from piston systems without the footprint or price tag of a full industrial unit.
“Smaller businesses need smart, efficient air — not just big machines,” says Binns. “With our new range, we’re giving them exactly that: robust screw compressor technology in a manageable, mobile format.”
Both units use variable speed direct drive and permanent magnet motors, delivering improved efficiency and lower energy consumption. The colour touchscreen control pad and silenced cabinet design help keep things user-friendly on the shop floor, while the air dryer in the 200L model removes moisture from the air stream — critical for spray booths, pharmaceutical lines, or any moisture-sensitive application.
Of course, some operations need more air — and Jefferson Tools’ expanded range doesn’t stop at the mid-size. The company’s industrial-grade 360L 10HP, 500L 20HP, and Tundra series (30HP and 50HP) screw compressors deliver up to 209cfm of air with features like Rotorcomp screw air ends, refrigerated dryers with filters, and whisper-quiet operation as low as 69dB.
“These are serious machines for serious work,” says Binns. “We recommend them for environments where uptime is critical — and where silence matters. You’ll find them in body shops, CNC machining centres, and bottling plants where low-noise, high-output air is non-negotiable.”
All Jefferson Tools compressors are backed by a two-year warranty and designed with practical maintenance in mind — including automatic drain systems, easy front-panel access, and robust powder-coated steel cabinets.
“Too often, companies treat compressed air like an afterthought,” Binns says. “But if your compressor goes down, your whole operation suffers. That’s why we’ve focused on providing screw compressor technology accessible and reliable across the entire range.”
Jefferson Tools’ new range of screw compressors offers a clear, simple upgrade path for anyone tired of noisy, unreliable piston units. More power, less noise, and smarter energy use — all backed by decades of engineering experience.
