Use this page as a photo-capture checklist. An air end is the compression assembly at the center of a rotary screw compressor, and buyers may also call it a compressor element, screw element or air compressor head. Those terms help label the files, but they do not prove interchangeability.
The strongest photo packet combines the complete part number, compressor model and serial number with clear views of the removed unit. For the full identification method and evidence hierarchy, read our Atlas Copco air end identification article.
Air end, compressor element and compressor head
Build the identity from strongest to weakest evidence
Record the complete part number
Photograph the label instead of transcribing from memory. Preserve leading zeros, suffixes, spaces and revision marks.
Capture the compressor model and serial
The same compressor family can contain multiple air-end revisions. A model name without the serial range is often incomplete.
Look for the air-end or element code
Codes such as C-, K-, H-, O.F.S. or O.I.S. references can narrow the family, but the code must be used with the part number.
Compare physical interfaces
Check shaft shape, flange, mounting feet, port locations, drive arrangement and rotation-related features.
Review related numbers carefully
A related number may represent a genuine service counterpart, revision, package variant or nearby family member—not necessarily the confirmed orderable part for your machine.
Take photos that answer fitment questions
Straight-on, sharp, evenly lit and readable at full size.
One view showing the entire old unit and its overall orientation.
Shaft, coupling or gear interface and surrounding flange.
Feet, hole spacing, brackets and underside where accessible.
Inlet, discharge, oil lines, sensors and valve interfaces.
Useful for identifying what failed and what must be transferred.
Why an image-only match can fail
- Assuming two products are interchangeable because the main casting looks identical.
- Using only the compressor series while ignoring serial-number production changes.
- Treating a related service number as a proven supersession without checking documentation.
- Cropping the nameplate so tightly that revision, pressure or serial information disappears.
- Requesting a price without destination, quantity or required condition.
The part number carries more weight than the keyword, and the complete machine identity carries more weight than visual similarity.
Request a Quote
Send us the part number or machine model and serial number. A clear old-unit or nameplate photo helps us confirm the correct genuine Atlas Copco air end and quote faster.