Tyre inflators

Properly adjusted tyre pressure provides driving comfort and safety, and also improves resistance of these elements to wear-out. Tyre air compressors help to keep this value at the appropriate level. With such devices, you can quickly normalize the operating pressure of a flat tyre.

Operation principle

Most of modern accessories function due to movement of the working cylinder which supplies necessary amount of air. It is located inside the body of the device and activates when the starting button, pedal or handle is pressed. When the cylinder moves upward, air is sucked in through a one-way valve, when it moves downward – the air is pumped into the wheel. Moreover, the equipment has a manometer which allows to monitor the pressure level.

What are the types of tyre air compressors

By operating principle:

• Piston (reciprocating) compressors. They work due to a piston which performs reciprocal motion inside the cylinder. The advantages of these devices are long service life and high power. They are resistant to low temperatures but can overheat if used long. There exists a separate category of rotary piston air compressors for tyres, with working elements made as helical rotors. Their distinguishing feature is a capability to deliver a larger amount of air.
• Diaphragm-type compressor. Air mass is pumped in due to vibrational motion of a rubber diaphragm located between the cylinder and cap. Performance of such devices is lower than that of piston ones. Diaphragm-type devices are compact, simple in use, have a low price.

By the drive type:

• Mechanical (foot- or hand-operated). They function due to operator’s physical effort when he presses the piston handle or pedal.
• Electrical. They can work from the electric cigar lighter or can be connected to the car battery terminals directly. Also, there are tyre air compressors with a built-in battery. The electrical devices work faster than mechanical versions, allow to reach the maximum pressure value and provide a possibility of pumping out some air.

The devices are equipped with the pointer-and-scale or digital pressure gauge. Accessories of the latter type provide more precise results and work faster, but are more expensive.

The devices may differ from one another in availability of additional features. Often manufacturers equip the accessories with the function of automatic turning off in case of overheating; flashlight; and adapters which allow to use the device for boats, inflatable pools and others.

Tips on tyre air compressors use

1. Before starting work, read the manufacturer’s instruction and follow it closely.
2. Don’t disassemble the device. In case of defects contact a service centre.
3. Avoid device overheating. When working with piston-type devices, stop for a while every 15 minutes.
4. When working with the electrical device, leave the car engine running. Thus, you will avoid car battery discharge.

AUTODOC: convenient online purchases

In our online shop you can buy tyre air compressors, battery alligator clips, lifting jacks and other accessories of reliable brands. All products presented in the catalogue are relatively inexpensive. Make an online order today to profitably buy all that is necessary for car maintenance.