Getting to Know the Nardi Esprit Series: Oil-Free Versatility Across Applications

Choosing the right compressor can be confusing—especially with so many different names and models across the Nardi Compressori product range. Each line is designed with specific uses in mind, but for new customers, those differences are not always obvious. This blog series is designed to guide you through the unique features of each Nardi compressor family—explaining where they fit, the pressures they reach, the flow rates they deliver, and the options available. By the end of this series, we hope you’ll have a clear sense of which Nardi compressor is the best fit for your needs.

The Esprit series is one of Nardi’s most versatile compressor families. Compact and lightweight, Esprit units are oil-free, low-pressure compressors designed to deliver clean, reliable air up to 145 psi (10 bar). What makes Esprit unique is the wide variety of configurations available—from small workshop units, to quiet silenced models, to specialized medical versions—and even hookah diving systems!

The Esprit family is proof of how Nardi adapts a single compressor line to serve multiple industries and users. Due to the breadth of Esprit uses and versions, we offer an overview of the series here.

The Nardi Esprit series of low pressure oil-free compressors.

Esprit General Use Models

Models: Esprit 1, Esprit 3, Esprit 3T, Esprit Silenced, and DC-Powered Versions

Overview

These models are designed for workshops, light industrial, and utility applications. With oil-free pumps, they offer clean compressed air without oil contamination and require minimal maintenance. The Esprit line also includes DC-powered options (12 VDC and 24 VDC) for portable, field-ready operation.

Key Specifications

• Flow rates (air intake): ≈ 3.7–8.8 cfm (105–250 L/min) depending on model

• Operating pressure: Up to 145 psi (10 bar)

• Power ratings: ≈ 0.5–0.9 hp (0.35–0.65 kW)

• Noise level: ≈ 48–63 dB (depending on version)

• Weight range: ≈ 27–90 lb (12–41 kg)

• Tank capacity: 3–15 L (0.8–4 gal) depending on model

Models

• Esprit 1 (10 L tank): ≈ 3.7–8.8 cfm, compact oil-free compressor for light tasks

• Esprit 3 (15 L tank): ≈ 3.7–8.8 cfm, greater storage capacity

• Esprit 3T (3 L tank): Compact twin-cylinder versions, available in multiple flow rates

• Esprit Silenced (5 L tank): Sound-reduced enclosure, quiet operation as low as 48 dB

• Esprit DC Models (12 VDC / 24 VDC): Battery-powered versions, ideal for mobile and off-grid applications

Esprit Medical (Esprit 2V)

Overview

The Esprit 2V is designed for medical and dental use, where quiet, oil-free performance is critical. These units are compact, silenced, and paired with integrated dryers to ensure clean, dry air for patient and instrument safety.

Key Specifications

• Flow rates:

  • Up to ≈ 7.4 cfm (210 L/min) intake

  • Air delivery ≈ 0.7–2.6 cfm (20–75 L/min) depending on working pressure

• Operating pressure: Up to 114 psi (8 bar)

• Power rating: ≈ 0.5 hp (0.35–0.75 kW)

• Noise level: As low as 52 dB

• Weight: ≈ 51 lb (23 kg)

• Tank capacity: 25 L (6.6 gal)

Models

• Esprit 2V 60/4: 105 L/min intake, 20 L/min at 8 bar, ultra-quiet 52 dB operation

• Esprit 2V 60/2: 210 L/min intake, 50 L/min at 8 bar, compact design with integrated dryer

Esprit Hookah (Esprit 3T Hookah – AC & DC Power Versions)

Overview

The Esprit Hookah 3T versions are designed for surface-supply diving in shallow water. These systems deliver continuous breathing air directly to divers via hose, eliminating the need for scuba tanks. Built on the Esprit platform, these compressors are compact, oil-free, and available in both AC electric and DC (12/24 VDC) power formats.

Key Specifications

• Flow rates: ≈ 6.4–8.8 cfm (180–250 L/min) depending on model

• Operating pressure: Up to 145 psi (10 bar)

• Power ratings: 500–600 W DC motors or ≈ 0.5 hp (0.35–0.75 kW) AC motors

• Noise level: ≈ 58–62 dB

• Weight: ≈ 27–32 lb (12–14.5 kg)

• Tank capacity: 3 L (0.8 gal)

Models

• Esprit Hookah 3T AC: ≈ 7.4 cfm (210 L/min), 0.5 hp, single-phase electric

• Esprit Hookah 3T – 12 VDC: ≈ 6.4–7.9 cfm (180–225 L/min), 500–600 W motor

• Esprit Hookah 3T – 24 VDC: ≈ 7.9 cfm (225 L/min), 500 W motor

Options & Accessories

• Quick-connect fittings

• Condensate drain kits

• Extension hoses (up to 17 m / 56 ft)

• Dual-hose couplings for multi-user hookah setups

• Replacement filter kits

• Silenced cabinets (for select models)

• Service and maintenance kits

Why Choose the Esprit?

The Esprit family demonstrates the flexibility of oil-free, low-pressure compressor technology. Whether you need:

• A portable workshop compressor (Esprit 1, 3, 3T, or Silenced)

• A specialized medical/dental system (Esprit 2V)

• A diving hookah system (Esprit Hookah 3T)

…there’s an Esprit model built for your needs. Compact, quiet, and oil-free, these compressors combine performance with adaptability.

Learn More & Shop Esprit Compressors

• Esprit 1

• Esprit 2V Medical

• Esprit 3

• Esprit 3T

• Esprit 3T Diving Hookah

• Esprit Silenced

More Information

For additional information on this or any other Nardi product, contact the Nardi Americas staff at info@nardiamericas.com or call +1 (954) 344-2420.

Nardi Americas is Nardi Compressori!