The history of air compressors as a tool dates back to ancient times. Man has used compressed air for thousands of years to heat his home, cook food, and move objects. The first type of compressor was a bellows used to blow compressed air onto a fire. These simple compression units were powered by man or animals to compress. These were replaced by mechanical air compressors that were used for industrial purposes. With advances in science, compressors shrank in size and found uses outside of factories as underwater diving aids or to power pneumatic tools and drills.

Air compression devices have been used since 2000 BC and were made from leather. These early air compression devices were pumped open and closed manually. This model was improved with the addition of handles and intake valves. But, the newer version was still a hand or foot operated low pressure device used primarily to stoke fires. Later, foot compressors were replaced by water wheels.

With the advancement of science, new air compressors were invented to expand the uses of compression. In 1650, the German scientist Otto von Guericke devised an air pump with a single piston and cylinder. In 1797, George Medhurst of England designed the first motorized compressor. In the 18th century, scientists discovered that compressed air could be used as a power source to propel and move objects. The find occurred when boiling water in a container exploded and moved an item. After this discovery, compressed air was used for rock drilling. In the 19th century, Paris devised an air compressor grid system to power its watches with a pulse of air every minute. Paris, also in the 19th century, experimented with the idea of ​​air compressor systems as an alternative to electricity.

With the dawn of the industrial age, air compression gained new uses in the field of manufacturing. The 20th century saw the use of piston compression air compressors in industry. In 1930, the screw compressor, first invented in Germany in 1878, offered quieter forms of air compression. At the end of the 20th century, three main types of compressors were in use. The reciprocating or piston compressor was used for oil refineries, gas pipelines, and refrigeration plants. They draw air in through an inlet valve and then expel it through an outlet. Its pistons are driven by a crankshaft to supply air at high pressures. Rotary compressors, a type of gas compressor, came after the piston compressor. They deliver large volumes of air at high pressure, which is good for industrial use. These compressors use a continuous sweeping motion to limit pulsation. And, the jet compressor uses pressurized water or gas to expel air from a cylinder or diffuser.

Today, compressors are used in all walks of life. They are found on construction sites, factories, doctors’ offices, and homes. The history of air compressors will continue to evolve as technological advances create different demands for compressed air and improve the quality of compressors.