When purchasing industrial air compressors, Sollant and Airman are two brands that frequently top the list of considerations for procurement professionals. As a leading Chinese compressor manufacturer, Sollant has rapidly expanded its global market presence by offering exceptional value and customized solutions. Conversely, Airman—a brand under the Japanese company Hokuetsu Industries Co., Ltd.—has enjoyed a distinguished reputation in both the equipment rental and construction sectors since 1971, renowned for its rugged durability and quiet operation technology.
This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the product lines offered by both brands, utilizing objective data comparisons to help you determine which of the two is the best fit for your specific needs.
Brand and Product Line Overview
Before diving into a detailed comparison, let us first examine the core positioning and primary product categories of each brand.
Sollant Product Categories
Sollant is a Chinese manufacturer headquartered in Shanghai, with a large-scale production base located in Shandong. Its product strategy focuses on energy-saving technologies and industry-specific customization. Its main product lines include:
Mobile Diesel Air Compressors: Widely used in mining, drilling, and outdoor construction projects; power outputs range from 26.8 to 429 kW, with air delivery volumes reaching up to 1,600 CFM.
Industrial Stationary Screw Compressors: Includes fixed-frequency, Permanent Magnet Variable Frequency (PMVF), and oil-cooled PMVF models, emphasizing high-efficiency solutions that deliver energy savings of over 30%.
Medium-to-High Pressure Compressor Series: Specifically designed for specialized operational requirements—such as natural gas compression and breathing air filling (e.g., the SLT-265 breathing air compressor model)—with maximum pressures reaching up to 50 MPa.
Oil-free and Specialty Gas Compressors: Includes oil-free screw compressors for the food and pharmaceutical industries, as well as diaphragm compressors for high-purity gas processing.
Airman Product Categories
Airman is a renowned Japanese manufacturer of construction machinery, distinguished by its reliability and eco-friendly designs. Its products command exceptionally high resale values in the global equipment rental market. Its main product lines include:
PDS Series Mobile Diesel Air Compressors: Airman’s flagship product line, covering air delivery volumes ranging from 100 CFM to over 1,200 CFM; widely utilized in construction and drilling applications. Representative models include the PDS185S, often hailed as an “industry workhorse.”
Motor-driven (Electric) Screw Compressors: Includes the SAS series (air-cooled) and SWS series (water-cooled), suitable for environments with a stable power supply, such as manufacturing plants.
SDG Series Generator Sets: Although this article primarily focuses on air compressors, Airman’s generators frequently appear on job sites as part of integrated power equipment packages alongside their compressors.
Ultra-Low Noise and Oil-free Models: Such as the SAS-V series (featuring variable frequency control) and the SAD series (oil-free), designed for use in locations with strict requirements regarding noise levels and environmental impact.
Core Comparison: Sollant vs. Airman
To illustrate the differences between the two more clearly, we have compiled the table below. It is important to note that any comparison of air compressors must be based on models of the same class and intended application.
| Comparison Dimensions | Sollant | Airman |
|---|---|---|
| Core Technologies and Energy Efficiency | The primary focus is on Permanent Magnet Variable Speed Drive (PM VSD) technology, claimed to deliver energy savings of up to 30–40% compared to traditional models. Intelligent control systems and real-time IoT monitoring have been key highlights in recent promotional efforts. | Renowned for its durability and “total fluid containment” (featuring a 110% leak-proof design). Although Variable Speed Drive models (the V-Series) have been introduced, the emphasis remains firmly on operational reliability and the ability to perform continuously in harsh environments. |
| Typical Diesel Models | SLTDP Series (Portable Diesel Models): Covering an extremely wide range of capacities (185–1600 CFM), these units are designed to operate in ambient temperatures ranging from -20°C to +45°C. A variety of engine brands are available as options. | PDS Series (e.g., PDS185S, PDS400S, PDSH850S, etc.): Among these, the PDS185S stands as an industry benchmark, featuring a noise level as low as 62 dBA—an exceptional performance within its class. |
| High-Pressure and Specialized Applications | We provide high-pressure systems capable of reaching pressures up to 50 MPa, covering media such as air and natural gas. Additionally, we offer specialized breathing air compressors (e.g., the SLT-265 model) designed for firefighting and diving operations. | We also supply medium-pressure units (MWH series) and high-air-pressure models (e.g., PDSJ and PDSK series), primarily utilized in geological drilling applications that require high-pressure pilot hole creation (with maximum pressures reaching approximately 2.5 MPa / 24.6 kg/cm²). |
| Product Lifecycle and Maintenance | We emphasize cost-effectiveness and a global capability for spare parts supply. As our equipment supports multiple engine brands, users can readily source common spare parts locally for maintenance purposes. | Our products are renowned for their long service life and high residual value. Our Americas-based supplier, ANA Inc., commits to shipping over 90% of spare parts orders within 24 hours, backed by a highly mature aftermarket support system. |
| Certifications and Standards | CE, ASME, EURO V, ISO, etc. As our products are exported globally, they have obtained numerous international certifications. | Tier 4F (the U.S. Final Tier 4 emission standard) comes as standard on our mainstream models, ensuring compliance with North America’s most stringent environmental regulations. |
Selection Recommendations
Based on the above comparison, we can provide reference recommendations for different application scenarios:
Choose Sollant if:
You need high cost-effectiveness and value energy saving: Especially if your operating load varies greatly, Sollant’s permanent magnet inverter technology can save you considerable electricity or fuel costs.
Involving special gases or ultra-high pressure operations: For scenarios requiring high pressure (>30MPa), such as natural gas compression, breathing air filling, and waterjet cutting, Sollant’s high-pressure series is more advantageous.
Seeking configuration flexibility: If you have a specific preference for engine brands (e.g., specifying Cummins or Yanmar), Sollant’s customization services can better meet your needs.
Choose Airman if:
For the rental market or considering residual value: Airman equipment is known for its ruggedness and durability, resulting in high resale value, making it one of the preferred brands for rental companies.
Strict noise requirements: For example, in urban or residential areas at night, the Airman PDS185S’s quiet design, as low as 62 decibels, will greatly reduce the risk of complaints.
For ultimate fluid leak prevention: In environmentally sensitive areas (such as near rivers and water sources), Airman’s 110% leak-proof chassis design provides additional safety.
Conclusion
Sollant and Airman represent two different manufacturing philosophies. Sollant, leveraging its flexible Chinese manufacturing advantages and aggressive energy-saving technologies, is rapidly catching up in the global market; while Airman, with its Japanese precision manufacturing processes and extremely high brand loyalty, continues to solidify its position in the demanding construction market.
When choosing, there is no absolute “better,” only “more suitable.” It is recommended that you clarify your budget, operating environment, and expectations for energy consumption and long-term return on investment before purchasing. If possible, on-site inspection of the equipment’s operating noise and review of fuel consumption data will help you make your final decision.
