Why RIX compressor?

[alanchang]

Why are people buying the RIX compressor? I understand that it is oilless and does not contaminate the air, and it has its application in the laboratory, industrial and environmental science sectors. But Scuba? Filling tanks with it? My question is, why? It is not high CFM, and it is also high maintenance.

I'm sure this unit isn't cheaper than any other oil-lubed compressor. So why not just buy a Bauer Oceanus or, even cheaper, an Alkin W31, Nardi or Coltri? Parts are available, and compressors are easy to purchase.

It is ,oil-free so it is going to be better on handling oxygen. But honestly, 32% through the compressor? Any oil-lubed compressor can do it. I'm not sure if Rix can pump 100% oxygen but even if it can, Haskel, Hydraulic International, USUN. They're all good. For those who prefer an electric booster, Masterline. Why are people dead set on RIX?

Better air quality because of the oil-free? Any oil compressor with decent filtration gives you very good quality and you don't need anything better then that.

I see people struggle with RIX every day here because it is more like a military and industrial-oriented company, and they don't care much about the scuba market. Like why not just buy something else??

 

[Johnoly]

..., an Alkin W31, Nardi or Coltri?..

Rix consumer compressors started way back in 1979 (abouts). That helped develop a loyal following before many other compressors and grow their market share back then. Now it's 2025 and there are many new compressors and in another 45 years likewise, those compressors you mentioned above may become like the Rix today. Technology and manufacturing costs, processes, design, and materials will change just like the last 45 years. Just like why do people buy VW beetles with air cooled engines that don't have electronics>>they are simple and easily work. Divers can argue about speed, quality, maintenance, durability of different compressors, but in the end,,,,,It's still compressed gas we all want.

 

[rob.mwpropane]

The RIX is dead simple to work on. To rebuild it took about $450usd (unless replacing the 3rd satge piston) and if you're handy about 3 hours or less to tear down, clean, and rebuild. And you need like 3 tools to do so. I wouldn't say high maintenance. After a rebuild (on paper) I'm good for at least 90,000cf of air (or more, but thats what the 3rd stage is rated at). That's a lifetime for myself... would not work in a shop setting though.

Mine is an SA6, so about 5cfm. To me that's pretty good. Sure, I'd like more, but I'm sure my tanks thank me for a slower fill. If filled from empty they get pretty hot as it is.

Mine is ran from a small diesel engine, very portable.

There's plenty of ways to skin a cat, this was just what worked for me at the time. I wouldn't have had a problem with any of the others if that's what I got. At the end of the day it pumps air and I dive more... it's a tool to get there, that's all.

And let's be honest. We (as hobbiest) all read a bunch then try to make an educated guess on what we buy. Once you gain some experience you're in a much better spot to have a much better guess next time..

 

[happy-diver]

No pumping if you don't have a pump that circumstances dictate when your head was there

Then enquire, as to why one would meander for seven plus years, rebuilding this work of art

We are characterful

 

[Johnoly]

Then enquire,.... rebuilding this work of art

Direct Drive & no belts,,,,No slippage, squealing, nor smoke, Just boost !

 

[grantmac]

I have a Bauer and I can see reasons I'd want a Rix, I think it would make for a brilliant boat compressor since it's orientation agnostic and filling tanks between destinations while sailing would make sense. Being able to put it in an area of the boat where chaining oil is a pain would be another bonus.

 

[nadwidny]

I see people struggle with RIX every day here because it is more like a military and industrial-oriented company, and they don't care much about the scuba market. Like why not just buy something else??

99% of the people that buy compressors do just that. They "Buy something else".

Outside of Scubaboard with its' local Rix shill, I've never ever heard of Rix compressors and I've been in a business where I dealt with hundreds of compressor owners every year. Never ran across a Rix. Rix is a non-existent market outside of military. Ordinary people are not buying Rix.