reciprocating compressors use pistons driven by a crankshaft. they can be either stationary or portable, can be single or multi-staged, and can be driven by electric motors or internal combustion engines. small reciprocating compressors from 5 to 30 horsepower (hp) are commonly seen in automotive applications and are typically for intermittent duty. larger reciprocating compressors up to 1000 hp are still commonly found in large industrial applications, but their numbers are declining as they are replaced by various other types of compressors. discharge pressures can range from low pressure to very high pressure (&gt;5000 psi or 35 mpa). in certain applications, such as air compression, multi-stage double-acting compressors are said to be the most efficient compressors available, and are typically larger, noisier, and more costly than comparable rotary units.