Gardner Denver

History of Gardner Denver:

Gardner Denver, founded in 1859 by Robert Gardner, began its journey in the heart of the American industrial revolution. Initially focusing on manufacturing the first effective air compressor, Gardner Denver quickly became a pioneer in compressed air and vacuum solutions. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the company grew over the decades through technological innovation and strategic acquisitions.

In 2013, Gardner Denver was acquired by the private equity firm KKR, which led to renewed focus on global expansion and modernization. In 2017, Gardner Denver went public again via an IPO. A significant milestone occurred in 2020 when the company merged with Ingersoll Rand’s industrial segment, forming a new global powerhouse under the Ingersoll Rand brand, though the Gardner Denver name continues to represent a key product line within the new entity.

 

Gardner Denver Products Portfolio:

1. Air Compressors

Gardner Denver offers a wide array of air compressors designed to meet various industrial needs.

 

Rotary Screw Compressors:

Power Range: 2.2 kW to 500+ kW

Pressure Range: Up to 13 bar (188 psi)

Air Delivery: 0.2 to 90 m³/min (7 to 3,200 CFM)

 

Features:

Energy-efficient variable speed drives (VSD)

Integrated dryer and filtration options

Compact design for easy installation

Quiet operation (< 70 dB(A) for many models)

 

Reciprocating (Piston) Compressors:

Power Range: 0.75 kW to 15 kW

Pressure: Up to 30 bar (435 psi)

Air Delivery: Up to 25 CFM

 

Features:

Ideal for intermittent or lower-volume air usage

Durable cast-iron construction

Oil-lubricated and oil-free models available

Suited for workshops and mobile applications

 

Oil-Free Compressors:

ISO Class 0 certified for 100% oil-free air

Available in scroll and screw designs

Applications: Food & beverage, electronics, pharmaceutical

 

Features:

No risk of oil contamination

Reduced maintenance

Low noise and vibration

 

Portable Compressors:

Power Source: Diesel or Electric

Flow: Up to 1,000 CFM

 

Features:

Rugged design for harsh environments

Skid, trailer, and truck-mounted options

Integrated coolers and control systems

 

2. Vacuum Pumps and Blowers

Gardner Denver provides high-performance vacuum systems across a range of industries.

 

Rotary Vane Vacuum Pumps:

Vacuum Level: Up to 99.5%

Flow Rate: 10 to 500+ m³/h

 

Features:

Oil-lubricated and dry-running variants

Quiet and continuous operation

Compact footprint

 

Liquid Ring Vacuum Pumps

Vacuum Level: Up to 33 mbar absolute

Flow Rate: Up to 5,000 m³/h

 

Features:

Handles vapor and liquid carryover

Corrosion-resistant materials (e.g., stainless steel)

Ideal for harsh chemical or wet gas applications

 

Claw and Screw Vacuum Pumps

Vacuum Level: Up to 50 mbar

 

Features:

Oil-free, contactless operation

High efficiency

Minimal maintenance

 

3. Pumps

Gardner Denver’s pump line serves diverse liquid-handling applications.

 

Diaphragm Pumps:

Flow Rates: Up to 100 GPM

Pressure: Up to 100 psi

 

Features:

Self-priming

Corrosion-resistant options (e.g., PTFE-lined)

Run-dry capability

 

High-Pressure Pumps:

Pressure: Up to 20,000 psi

Applications: Oil & gas, water jetting, industrial cleaning

 

Features:

Precision-machined pistons

Skid-mounted custom systems

Explosion-proof options

 

Centrifugal and Gear Pumps

Flow: Up to 400 GPM

 

Features:

High efficiency

Wide range of viscosities

Available in various metals/plastics

 

4. Air Treatment Solutions

Clean, dry air is essential for system longevity and quality assurance.

 

Refrigerated Dryers:

Dew Point: ~+3°C (37.4°F)

Flow Rates: 10 to 5,000+ CFM

 

Features:

Digital control interfaces

Energy saving modes

Compact modular options

 

Desiccant Dryers:

Dew Point: -40°C to -70°C (-40°F to -94°F)

Applications: Critical environments (labs, pharma)

 

Features:

Heatless, heated, and blower purge designs

Long service life

Low-pressure drop

 

Filters & Separators:

Filtration Grades: Up to 0.01 micron

Oil Carryover: <0.01 ppm for fine filters

 

Features:

Coalescing, particulate, and activated carbon types

Easy element replacement

Visual service indicators

 

5. Aftermarket Services

OEM Parts and Kits: Designed for optimal fit and performance

Remote Monitoring: IoT-enabled systems provide predictive maintenance alerts

Audits & System Optimization: Identify leaks, inefficiencies, and energy-saving opportunities

Extended Warranties and Service Contracts: Tailored to customer needs

 

Pros and Cons of Gardner Denver Products:

Air Compressors

Pros:

High efficiency and reliability

Wide range of models for specific needs

Long service life with proper maintenance

 

Cons:

Higher initial investment for oil-free models

Noise levels (especially reciprocating types) can be significant

Requires regular maintenance

 

Vacuum Pumps

Pros:

Designed for heavy-duty industrial use

Variety of technologies available for tailored applications

Energy-efficient designs in newer models

 

Cons:

Can be sensitive to particulates or corrosive gases

Some require complex installation setups

Maintenance needs can vary by type

 

Pumps

Pros:

Versatile applications across sectors

High flow and pressure capabilities

Durable and corrosion-resistant materials

 

Cons:

Specialized models may be costly

Require precise specification to avoid inefficiency

Regular wear parts may lead to downtime without spares

 

Air Treatment Equipment

Pros:

Protects downstream equipment

Improves air quality and product safety

Reduces energy losses from moisture in air lines

 

Cons:

Adds to system complexity

Needs proper sizing and placement

Can be expensive in high-capacity systems

 

Gardner Denver Competitors:

Gardner Denver operates in a highly competitive industrial market. Its main competitors include:

• Atlas Copco – A global leader in compressors, vacuum solutions, and air treatment.
• Ingersoll Rand (pre-merger) – Former competitor, now a combined entity with Gardner Denver.
• Kaeser Compressors – Known for reliability and efficiency in air system design.
• Sullair – Focused on oil-free and portable compressor technologies.
• Elmo Rietschle – A key rival in vacuum technologies.
• Quincy Compressor – Competes in the industrial and portable compressor segments.

 

Conclusion

Gardner Denver has maintained a strong reputation in the industrial sector by consistently delivering innovative and reliable compressed air and vacuum solutions. Now part of Ingersoll Rand, the Gardner Denver brand continues to thrive through its comprehensive product offerings, extensive global presence, and customer-focused service programs.

While the initial costs and maintenance requirements of their systems can be a consideration, the long-term performance and reliability make Gardner Denver a trusted choice for industries demanding high-quality, durable equipment. Whether you're seeking powerful compressors, precision vacuum systems, or tailored pumping solutions, Gardner Denver offers a range of products that cater to diverse operational needs.