The energy efficiency level of air compressors is divided according to the standard GB 19153-2019 "Energy efficiency limit values and energy efficiency levels of positive displacement air compressors" issued by the National Standardization Administration, which grades the energy efficiency of air compressors to guide users to choose more energy-efficient equipment. Energy efficiency levels are usually divided into level one, level two and level three, where level one represents the highest energy efficiency level, that is, the most energy-efficient, while level three represents a lower energy efficiency level.

The energy efficiency level directly affects the operating cost of the air compressor, because the higher the energy efficiency level, the less electricity the air compressor consumes when compressing air. This means that although the initial investment cost of a first-level energy-efficient air compressor may be higher, due to its lower operating energy consumption, it can significantly reduce energy costs in the long term, thereby reducing the total cost of ownership. On the contrary, although the purchase cost of a three-level energy efficiency air compressor may be lower, due to higher energy consumption, the electricity bill will be higher in the long term, resulting in an increase in the total cost of ownership.

When calculating the energy efficiency rating of an air compressor, the input power and output flow of the air compressor are usually considered. Input power refers to the power of electrical energy or other energy consumed by the air compressor during operation, while output flow refers to the volume of compressed air produced by the air compressor per unit time. The energy efficiency rating is usually calculated by dividing the input power by the volume flow, in units of kW/(m³/min). According to GB 19153-2019, the energy efficiency rating of an air compressor can be assessed by specific power. The smaller the specific power, the higher the energy efficiency rating.

In order to improve the energy efficiency level of the air compressor, the following measures can be taken:

1.Update equipment: Use new energy-saving air compressors and electric motors.

2. Frequency Control: Use variable frequency drive (VSD) equipment to meet different pressure requirements.

3. Optimization equipment: Use central controller and remote monitoring to optimize the operation of the entire system.

4. Energy recovery: Use the waste heat generated by the air compressor for heat recovery to reduce additional energy consumption.

When considering purchasing an air compressor, you should consider the initial purchase cost, daily operating costs and maintenance costs, and choose an air compressor with a high energy efficiency rating to achieve long-term energy saving and cost savings. At the same time, regular maintenance is also a key factor in ensuring that the air compressor maintains high energy efficiency.