A compressed air motor is a relatively simple type of motor powered by pneumatic energy, converting compressed air into mechanical motion. Thanks to their straightforward design, they need little maintenance and suit a wide range of applications. They work in environments where other motor types cannot function, including wet, hot and dusty areas. At Laco, we supply and rent Ingersoll-Rand compressed air motors.
Compressed air at typically 6 to 7 bar enters the motor and expands, generating torque. In rotary motors, the expanding air drives a rotor that converts energy into rotation. After doing its work, the air leaves through an exhaust port. No fuel, no combustion, no heat.
The most widely used type. A rotor with sliding vanes rotates in an eccentric housing. Compact, lightweight and virtually maintenance-free. Ingersoll-Rand series: MVA, MOVO, M002-M007, 1800-4800, 92RA and 92RB.
Pistons move radially in a cylindrical housing. High torque at low speed, ideal for heavy pulling and lifting. Ingersoll-Rand: CC, KK and KK5B.
| Series | Type | Typical applications |
| MVA / MOVO | Vane motor (light) | Light industrial tools, small drives |
| M002 / M004 / M007 | Vane motor (medium) | Machinery, assembly tools |
| 1800 / 3800 / 4800 | Vane motor (heavy) | Offshore, shipbuilding, hoisting |
| 92RA / 92RB | Vane motor (extra power) | Heavy industrial drives, flange machining |
| CC / KK / KK5B | Radial piston motor | High torque at low speed, heavy pulling |
Offshore and petrochemical: powering tools and hoisting equipment in ATEX zones. Shipbuilding: flange machining and grinding. Machinery: production machines and assembly lines. Hoisting equipment: air winches and air hoists.
| Feature | Compressed air motor | Electric motor |
| Start behaviour | Instant full torque, zero delay | Start-up current, delay at cold start |
| Overheating | Impossible (air cooling internal) | Risk under overload, cooling required |
| ATEX suitability | Inherently suitable, no sparks | Special ATEX version required (more expensive) |
| Weight (comparable power) | Significantly lighter | Heavier due to windings and cooling |
| Maintenance | Minimal, annual lubrication | Brushes, cooling, power control |
| Adjustable speed | Stepless via air pressure | Via frequency inverter (extra cost) |
| Resistant to moisture/dust | Yes, no damage | May be damaged, sealing required |
A compressed air motor runs on compressed air, produces no sparks and is ATEX suitable. An electric motor requires a power supply and generates heat. Air motors start instantly at full torque and cannot overheat.
Most models operate optimally at 6 to 7 bar. At lower pressure, torque decreases.
Yes. They produce no sparks and work without electricity. Many Ingersoll-Rand models carry specific ATEX certification.
